How to vertically align text with icon font?

Flexbox: your new best friend

The flexible layout module or Flexbox is a modern layout system in CSS, providing a more efficient way to align and distribute space among elements within a container, even when their size is unknown or dynamic.

Flexbox gives you precise control over alignment, direction, order, and size of your boxes. To vertically align text with an icon using Flexbox, here is a nifty example:

<div class="icon-text-wrapper" style="display: flex; align-items: center;">
  <i class="icon"></i>
  <!-- Sure, I can dance. But can you code? -->
  <span>Just some text dancing with the icon</span>
</div>


In this snippet, display: flex; initiates the flexible layout on the wrapper while align-items: center; ensures all children items (your text and icon) are nicely centered.

Pro tips: refining and adjustment techniques

Precision alignment

vertical-align: middle; is a handy tool but don't forget it aligns to the text baseline, which can vary between fonts. In such scenarios, use CSS transform: translateY(-50%); for pixel-perfect adjustments.

Browser compatibility

For older browsers like IE8/9, rely on polyfills like flexibility to enable flexbox properties. Also, using vendor prefixes (-webkit-, -moz-, -ms-) ensures cross-browser compatibility.

Clean HTML structure

Optimizing your HTML for smoother alignment implementation is key. Nested elements may require additional CSS attention. Aim for a clean, minimalist HTML structure where the alignment is straightforward.

Going beyond basic

• Ever heard of pseudo-elements? These can be manipulated (::before or ::after) to control alignment further.
• SVG icons are cool, but remember to manage the viewBox attribute to align these icons at the same baseline as the text.

Best practices and innovations

Consistency is key

In perfect alignment, maintaining a consistent vertical rhythm is a must. Line-height should correspond to visual harmony. Utilize a modular scale for maintaining consistent rhythm throughout your design.

Code clarity

Resist the temptation to use random margin or padding values for a quick fix, as they can lead to confusing and unmanageable code. Prioritize clarity in CSS that someone else can read and update.

CSS custom properties

Leverage the power of CSS custom properties (also called variables!). Defining dimensions, colors, and other recurrent properties make future tweaks painless due to central control.

Exploring CSS Grid

Though Flexbox often suffices, CSS Grid can be used for more complex spatial arrangement and alignment management. Feel free to explore and experiment!