Congress Blue
General Information
Congress Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #124886, is a dark, muted shade of blue. It evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism. In the RGB color model, it consists of 7.1% red, 28.2% green, and 52.5% blue. This color is often associated with corporate branding, government agencies, and educational institutions due to its serious and dependable nature. Its relatively low saturation gives it a subdued appearance, making it versatile for various design applications. The color is also known under other names such as "Deep Sea Blue". Understanding the psychological impact and technical specifications of Congress Blue can assist designers in effectively utilizing it to achieve desired aesthetic and functional goals.
The hex color #124886, also known as Congress Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its relatively dark nature implies that it will generally require light-colored text for sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, contrast ratios should be at least 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Using contrast checking tools is vital to confirm compliance. Given its darkness, using #124886 as a background with dark text is strongly discouraged due to poor readability. Furthermore, developers should ensure that interactive elements using this color, such as buttons or links, provide clear visual cues beyond color alone to aid users with color vision deficiencies. Screen reader compatibility should also be considered by providing descriptive alternative text for images or elements using this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5984
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against dark text, improving readability for users.
- #082e54
A darker shade of blue that provides even higher contrast against light text, ensuring accessibility for users with visual impairments.
- #3468ac
A muted blue that can be used as a background color, contrasting with white text.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Congress Blue (#124886) can be effectively employed as a primary color for headers, navigation bars, and call-to-action buttons. Its professional and trustworthy appearance makes it suitable for corporate websites, educational platforms, and financial institutions. It can also be used to highlight important information or create a sense of stability and reliability. Complementing it with lighter shades or neutral colors can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal and user experience. Consider its contrast ratio with text elements to ensure accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can serve as an accent color to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative elements to add depth and visual interest to a room. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. Furthermore, using Congress Blue in home decor can evoke a sense of elegance and refinement. It is well-suited for studies, bedrooms, or living rooms where a serene ambiance is desired.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue can be used to create classic and timeless looks. It can be incorporated into clothing items such as dresses, suits, or outerwear, and it complements a variety of skin tones. Accessorizing with silver or gold jewelry can enhance the color's richness and sophistication. It is often used for formal wear or professional attire, exuding confidence and poise. A dark blue handbag can also be a good choice for any occasion.