Congress Blue
General Information
The hex color #134A88, also known as Congress Blue, is a deep, muted shade of blue that evokes feelings of stability, trustworthiness, and sophistication. It is often associated with corporate environments, government institutions, and academic settings due to its serious and reliable nature. In color psychology, blue is generally linked to calmness and serenity, making it a popular choice for designs that aim to create a sense of peace and tranquility. Congress Blue, in particular, carries a weight of authority, making it suitable for branding and designs that need to project credibility and professionalism. Its dark tone also allows for excellent contrast when paired with lighter colors, enhancing readability and visual appeal. This color combines a small amount of red with moderate green and a high amount of blue.
The hex color #134A88, also known as Congress Blue, offers moderate accessibility. When used as text on a white background, it provides a contrast ratio of approximately 3.6:1. While this doesn't meet the WCAG AA standard for normal text (4.5:1), it's close and may be acceptable for larger text sizes (3:1) or UI components. For optimal accessibility, consider using it for headings or graphical elements rather than body text. Pairing it with lighter shades of yellow, orange, or even a very light gray can improve readability. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure sufficient contrast for users with visual impairments. Providing alternative text descriptions for images and ensuring that interactive elements have proper focus states are also crucial for overall accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Design
Congress Blue is a versatile color that can be effectively used in website design to create a sense of trust and professionalism. It is particularly well-suited for the header and navigation elements, where it can provide a clean and authoritative aesthetic. When combined with a neutral background, such as white or light gray, Congress Blue can also be used for buttons and other interactive elements, drawing the user's eye to key calls to action. It's also often used in the informational architecture of a website.
Interior Design
In interior design, Congress Blue can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. This color works well as an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space. It can be complemented with lighter shades of blue and gray, or contrasted with warm tones such as gold or beige, to achieve a balanced and visually appealing interior. Congress Blue works in both home and office settings.
Fashion
In fashion, Congress Blue presents a refined and classic choice for both formal and casual wear. It is suitable for suits, dresses, and outerwear, providing a versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. When paired with neutral accessories, such as black or brown leather, Congress Blue creates a sophisticated and timeless look. For a more casual ensemble, it can be combined with denim or lighter shades of blue.