Ronalds Vilciņš

The light-dark() CSS Function

The light-dark() CSS function offers a straightforward way to create websites that seamlessly adapt to user-preferred color schemes, such as light or dark mode. By defining just two color values, you can ensure your site remains visually appealing, no matter the user’s theme preference.

How Does It Work?

1. Detecting User Preferences:
   The browser identifies the user’s preferred color scheme based on their system or browser settings.
2. Color Matching:
   The light-dark() function selects the appropriate color from the two values you provide—one for light mode and one for dark mode.
3. Dynamic Styling:
   The website automatically adjusts its colors to align with the user’s preferred theme.

Syntax Overview

The syntax for using light-dark() is clean and intuitive:

color: light-dark(light-color, dark-color);

Example Usage

body {
  background-color: light-dark(#f0f0f0, #222); /* Light: #f0f0f0, Dark: #222 */
  color: light-dark(#333, #fff);               /* Light: #333, Dark: #fff */
}

• For Light Mode Users:
  The background color will be #f0f0f0, and the text color will be #333.
• For Dark Mode Users:
  The background color switches to #222, while the text becomes #fff.

Why Use light-dark()?

• Say goodbye to complex media queries or JavaScript for managing themes. The light-dark() function simplifies your workflow, making theme adaptation a breeze.
• Ensure your website looks polished and consistent for users, whether they prefer light or dark mode.
• Maintaining optimal color contrast across themes enhances accessibility, ensuring your content is readable for users with visual impairments.

Comments

Reply on Bluesky here to join the conversation.