Congress Blue
General Information
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #11458A, is a deep, muted shade of blue. It's a color that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority, often associated with governmental and institutional settings. In the RGB color model, #11458A consists of 6.67% red, 27.06% green, and 54.12% blue. The color's relatively low saturation and brightness contribute to its serious and conservative character. Congress Blue can be used in designs where you want to convey a sense of formality, reliability, or expertise. Understanding the color's inherent qualities is crucial for leveraging it effectively in various applications, from web design to branding.
The color #11458A, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it requires very light text to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as per WCAG guidelines. It's crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to verify compliance. For instance, pairing #11458A with white (#FFFFFF) can provide sufficient contrast, but other light colors may fall short. Conversely, avoid using dark text on this background, as it will likely be illegible for many users. When using Congress Blue for interactive elements like buttons or links, provide clear visual cues beyond color alone to ensure usability for colorblind individuals. This could include underlines, icons, or text labels.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Congress Blue can be effectively used in website headers and footers to establish a professional and trustworthy brand identity. Its deep hue evokes feelings of stability and reliability, making it suitable for businesses in finance, law, or government sectors. When incorporating it, be mindful of the contrast ratio with text and other elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Use it sparingly for call-to-action buttons, paired with contrasting colors like yellow or white, to draw attention and encourage user interaction. Congress Blue can also be used in charts and graphs to represent data clearly and concisely.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or living rooms as an accent wall color or for upholstery. Pair it with lighter neutrals like gray or beige to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming. Accessorize with metallic accents like gold or silver to add a touch of elegance. Congress Blue can also be used in smaller doses, such as in throw pillows, curtains, or artwork, to add a pop of color to a room without dominating the entire space.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be incorporated into both casual and formal outfits. It works well as a base color for suits, dresses, or outerwear. Pair it with neutral colors like white, black, or gray for a classic and sophisticated look. For a more vibrant and eye-catching outfit, combine it with complementary colors like orange or yellow. Congress Blue can also be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. It's a great color for creating a polished and professional appearance.