Congress Blue
General Information
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #114A8A, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. It is often associated with governmental institutions, hence the name. This color is composed of 6.7% red, 29% green, and 54.1% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:17, G:74, and B:138. The CMYK values are C:88, M:46, Y:0, and K:46. Congress Blue falls into the blue color family, which is known for its calming and soothing properties. Due to its darker hue, it is important to consider contrast when using it for text or backgrounds to ensure readability and accessibility. It can be effectively used in branding, web design, and other creative fields to convey a sense of reliability and authority.
The hex color #114A8A, also known as Congress Blue, presents certain accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its relatively low luminance value of approximately 0.05 makes it difficult to provide sufficient contrast with lighter text colors. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #114A8A, ensure that the foreground color is significantly lighter to meet these contrast requirements. For instance, white text (#FFFFFF) may provide adequate contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be used to verify the contrast ratio. Insufficient contrast can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, careful consideration and testing are crucial for ensuring inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue (#114A8A) can be effectively used for navigation bars and headers to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Its dark hue helps to create a strong visual separation between different sections of a webpage. Furthermore, this color can serve as an accent color for interactive elements such as buttons and links, providing a subtle yet noticeable highlight. However, it's crucial to ensure adequate contrast with text and background elements to maintain accessibility. Pairing it with lighter shades or contrasting colors can enhance the overall user experience and prevent eye strain, making it suitable for prolonged use on websites and applications.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue (#114A8A) embodies sophistication and elegance, making it suitable for formal wear, business attire, or accent pieces. It can be used for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and handbags. The color's depth makes it versatile and easy to pair with neutral shades such as gray, white, and beige, or with bolder colors such as gold or crimson for a striking contrast. This hue is particularly flattering on individuals with cool undertones and can add a touch of class to any outfit. Its association with trustworthiness and reliability makes it a popular choice for professional settings.
Interior Design
Congress Blue (#114A8A) brings a sense of depth and sophistication to interior spaces. It can be used to paint walls in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices to create a calming and professional atmosphere. The color also works well for accent pieces such as throw pillows, curtains, or rugs, adding a touch of elegance to the decor. Pair it with lighter, neutral tones like cream or gray to balance the room and prevent it from feeling too dark. Consider using this color in studies or libraries to promote focus and concentration. Combining it with natural materials like wood and stone can enhance its warmth and create a cozy ambiance.