Congress Blue

General Information about Congress Blue

Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #11498A, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes a sense of formality, trustworthiness, and stability. It belongs to the blue color family, which is often associated with calmness, intelligence, and reliability. In color psychology, blue is frequently used to represent professionalism and authority, making Congress Blue a popular choice for corporate branding and government-related materials. The color's RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values are R: 17, G: 73, B: 138. Its CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) values are C: 88, M: 47, Y: 0, K: 46. These values indicate the precise mixture of primary colors required to reproduce Congress Blue in print and digital media. Because of its dark undertones, this color works best when paired with lighter colors to avoid a somber or overwhelming visual effect.

The hex color #11498A, also known as Congress Blue, presents some accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Its darkness impacts its contrast ratio against lighter background colors like white or very pale shades. A sufficient contrast ratio, as defined by WCAG guidelines (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), is crucial for users with visual impairments to perceive content effectively. For standard text (smaller than 18pt), a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended, while for large text (18pt and larger, or 14pt bold and larger), a ratio of 3:1 is generally considered acceptable. When using #11498A for text, it is important to pair it with a light background to meet these contrast requirements. Tools are available online to check color contrast ratios. Using #11498A for interactive elements like buttons or links requires careful consideration to ensure they are easily distinguishable. Consider using a lighter shade of blue or a contrasting color for the outline or background to enhance visibility. Additionally, providing alternative cues like icons or text labels can help users understand the element's function.

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Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Government and Corporate Websites

  Congress Blue (#11498A) evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority, making it suitable for websites of government agencies, law firms, or financial institutions. Its deep, formal tone can enhance the perception of professionalism and reliability. It can also be effectively used in branding materials to convey a sense of importance and tradition. For user interface design, consider using Congress Blue for headers, navigation bars, and other key elements that require prominence without being overly distracting. When combined with complementary colors like gold or light grays, it creates a sophisticated and visually appealing aesthetic. In infographics, it can effectively highlight important data points or sections.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Congress Blue can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or studies. When paired with lighter neutrals like beige or cream, it adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space. Using it for wall paint, upholstery, or decorative accessories can bring a sense of depth and character to a room. Consider using it for statement pieces like a velvet sofa or an area rug to create a focal point. It also pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the feeling of groundedness and stability. Furthermore, it is a good option for rooms with lots of sunlight as it doesn't easily fade and maintains its deep color even in bright conditions.

• Fashion

  In fashion, Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be used in both formal and casual wear. It is a great alternative to black for suits, blazers, and dresses, offering a more unique and sophisticated look. It pairs well with a variety of colors, including white, gray, beige, and even bolder shades like red or yellow. Accessories in Congress Blue, such as handbags, scarves, or shoes, can add a pop of color to an outfit without being too overpowering. It also looks great in textured fabrics like velvet or corduroy, adding depth and interest to the design. In menswear, it can be used for shirts, sweaters, or chinos, creating a polished and refined appearance.

Complementary color

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