Congress Blue

General Information about Congress Blue

The hexadecimal color #114082, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 6.67% red, 25.1% green, and 50.98% blue. The color is often associated with government, law, and professional settings, where it is used to convey a sense of seriousness and reliability. The color's relatively low lightness value contributes to its calming and sophisticated appearance. It can be effectively used in branding and design to project a sense of competence and trustworthiness. The color has a rich history, and variations of it have been used in flags, uniforms, and official documents to symbolize power and integrity. Understanding the psychological impact of this color is essential for leveraging its potential in various design applications.

The color #114082, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its low lightness value (approximately 13%) means it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability. For text, it's crucial to use a light color for the background or vice versa to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. When used in UI elements, ensure sufficient contrast for interactive components like buttons and links. Avoid using this color for elements that convey important information without sufficient contrast, as users with visual impairments may struggle to perceive them. Using a lighter shade of blue or pairing it with a high-contrast accent color can improve accessibility.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Government Website Design

  Congress Blue can be used as the primary color for a website or application related to government, law, or politics to convey trust, stability, and authority. It evokes a sense of professionalism and reliability. Using this color in combination with a clean, minimalist design can create a sophisticated and credible online presence. In UI design, consider using it for headers, navigation bars, and other prominent elements to establish a strong visual identity. It's especially effective when paired with neutral colors and accessible typography to ensure a user-friendly experience.

• Formal Wear

  In the fashion industry, Congress Blue can be incorporated into formal wear, such as suits, dresses, and ties, to create a sophisticated and professional look. It is a versatile color that can be paired with a variety of other colors, including white, gray, and even brighter accent colors like gold or red, depending on the desired effect. The color provides a classic and elegant feel, suitable for business attire or formal occasions. Accessorizing with silver or pearl jewelry can further enhance the color's richness.

• Interior Design Accent

  Congress Blue can be used as an accent wall color in interior design to add a touch of sophistication and calmness to a room. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. When paired with lighter colors like white or beige, it provides a balanced contrast. Incorporating natural materials like wood and plants can further enhance the room's ambiance. Using textures like velvet or linen can add depth and visual interest to the design. Metallic accents, such as gold or brass, can complement the blue and elevate the overall aesthetic.

Complementary color

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