Congress Blue
General Information about Congress Blue (#113D87)
The hex color #113D87, commonly known as Congress Blue, is a deep and rich shade of blue that evokes feelings of authority, stability, and professionalism. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its relatively low saturation and luminance values, which contribute to its subdued and sophisticated appearance. In the RGB color model, #113D87 is composed of 6.7% red, 23.9% green, and 52.9% blue. This combination of primary colors creates a color that is perceived as calming and trustworthy. The color is often associated with government, finance, and corporate settings, where it is used to convey a sense of reliability and integrity. In color psychology, blue is frequently linked to qualities such as loyalty, wisdom, and confidence, making Congress Blue a strategic choice for branding and design applications seeking to project these attributes.
The hex color #113D87, also known as Congress Blue, presents certain accessibility considerations for web design. Due to its relatively dark hue, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when pairing it with text or other foreground elements. A light color, such as white or a pale yellow, would be appropriate choices to ensure readability and usability, particularly for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Tools are available online to calculate the contrast ratio between two colors, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. When using #113D87 for interactive elements, such as buttons or links, it's vital to provide clear visual cues upon hover or focus to indicate the interactive state. This improves the user experience for individuals relying on keyboard navigation or screen readers. Also, avoid using color as the sole means of conveying information; supplement color cues with text labels or icons to ensure inclusivity for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5cb8
A slightly lighter shade of blue that still maintains a professional look but provides a bit more brightness.
- #0a2a63
A darker shade of blue, suitable for backgrounds, ensuring sufficient contrast with white or light-colored text.
- #5f9ea0
A muted grayish-blue that can be used as a neutral background, making the primary content stand out
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Congress Blue (#113D87) exudes professionalism and trustworthiness, making it an excellent choice for corporate websites, especially those in the finance, law, or government sectors. Its deep, authoritative tone conveys stability and reliability, fostering confidence among visitors. When incorporating this color, consider using it for headers, navigation bars, or key call-to-action buttons. Pair it with complementary colors like light grays or off-whites to create a balanced and visually appealing website. For body text, opt for a highly legible font in a contrasting color to ensure readability and accessibility, adhering to web accessibility standards for optimal user experience.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Congress Blue lends itself well to creating sophisticated and elegant looks. It can be used as a base color for suits, dresses, or formal wear, projecting an image of confidence and composure. Accessorize with metallic tones like silver or gold for a touch of glamour, or use contrasting colors such as mustard yellow or deep red for a bolder statement. Consider the fabric's texture as well; velvet or silk in Congress Blue can amplify its richness and depth, while cotton or linen provide a more casual yet refined appearance. The color's versatility allows for both classic and contemporary interpretations, making it a timeless addition to any wardrobe.
Interior Design
Congress Blue serves as a sophisticated and calming hue for interior design, perfect for creating serene and focused environments. Incorporating it as an accent wall color in a home office or library can promote concentration and tranquility. When using it in larger spaces, balance its depth with lighter, neutral tones like beige or light gray for furniture and other decor elements. Introduce natural textures such as wood or stone to add warmth and prevent the space from feeling too cold or sterile. Consider using metallic accents like brass or copper to complement the blue and add a touch of elegance.