How to change the style of the title attribute inside an anchor tag?

html

responsive-design

css

accessibility

byAlex Kataev·Nov 8, 2024

To style the title tooltip of an <a> element, we replace it with a custom CSS tooltip. We neatly tuck the default tooltip away using data- attributes and put on our makeup with some smoky CSS aesthetics. Here's a prime example:

HTML:

<a href="#" class="tooltip" data-tooltip="Stylish Tooltip">Hover me!</a>

CSS:

.tooltip {
  position: relative;  
  text-decoration: none; /* Bye default underline */
}
.tooltip::after {
  content: attr(data-tooltip);
  position: absolute;
  top: 20px; /* You can play around with this */
  left: 0;
  z-index: 100; /* Let's sit on top, shall we? */
  background: #333;
  color: #fff;
  padding: 5px 10px;
  border-radius: 3px;
  display: none; /* Shhh, not yet... */
  white-space: nowrap; /* Because breaking up is hard */
}
.tooltip:hover::after {
  display: block; /* Ta-da! */
}

This neat little trick ensures your tooltip is a head-turner across all browsers.

Styling strategies for tooltips

Manipulating pseudo-elements and data attributes

We can use season-ready ::before and ::after pseudo-elements in CSS to create tooltips that appear when the mouse uncovers them. Pair this with data-tooltip attribute for a semantic and fashionable approach to style your tooltips while keeping the title attribute as a casual wear.

Accessibility is never out of style

When we switch up traditional outfits, we need to ensure we balance style with comfort, or, in developer terms, accessibility. Embrace the aria-label attribute as your new best friend—it not only offers identifications for your link but also helps in hiding tooltip text with aria-hidden="true" for screen reader users.

Javascript embellishments when CSS won't do

Where CSS fails to meet demands, JavaScript outfitters offer style-on-demand. Known for their dynamic tooltips, these assets provide absolute control over the markup and style. Do keep in mind, however, that not all users may be fans of JavaScript.

A well-placed tooltip ensures maximum visibility and improved readability. Appropriate positioning, z-index, and dimensions are key to achieving this. An elegant and effortless tooltip doesn't step on other elements and is always ready for its closeup.

Creative ways to style tooltips

Forming impressions

While the default browser tooltip might appear plain, a styled tooltip can make an impact. Put on your designing hats and let's get creative:

a[title]:hover::after {
  content: attr(title);
  /* Mix things up */
  color: #fancyColor; /* Make color your statement */
  background: #fancyBackground; /* It's in the background */
}

Striking the right ambiance

Contrasting color combinations and shadow effects can give your tooltip depth and make it stand out. A soft box-shadow can add a 3D feel, turning your tooltip into a showstopper on your webpage.

Dress code: Elegance

Fonts, spacing, and transitions can be your magic wand for an eye-catching tooltip. A delay before it appears adds to the anticipation and ensures that your tooltip only takes the stage at the right moment.

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