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Invert CSS font-color depending on background-color

css
responsive-design
best-practices
performance
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita BarsukovĀ·Jan 25, 2025
āš”TLDR

Effortlessly invert text color against the background using CSS, just like this: filter: invert(1);. A straightforward technique for enhancing readability on high-contrast backgrounds.

Example:

.inverted { /* šŸŽµ Hello from the other side...of color šŸŽ¶ */ filter: invert(1); }

Apply it like so:

<div style="background-color: #000;"> <p class="inverted">Text with colors inverted</p> </div>

A solution as quick as a greased lightning to address contrast without any complex math.

Dynamic color adaptation techniques

Using mix-blend-mode for greater adaptability

Embrace CSS's mix-blend-mode for a more flexible approach. With 'difference' or 'screen' modes, the font color flips based on the background color, maintaining clarity and contrast.

Example:

.dynamic-invert { /* It's like a color dance-off! */ mix-blend-mode: difference; }

Apply it on layered content:

<div style="background-color: magenta;"> <p class="dynamic-invert">Text that adjusts to background color</p> </div>

Don't forget to cross-check the browser compatibility as mix-blend-mode might not work everywhere.

Crafting compatibility solutions with pseudo-elements

For better browser friendliness, utilize :before and :after pseudo-elements. This duo can manipulate text appearance on multiple backgrounds.

Generate an inverted-bar class where ::before and ::after elements share identical content in contrasting colors.

Example:

.inverted-bar::before, .inverted-bar::after { /* Double trouble! */ content: "Your text here"; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; } .inverted-bar::before { /* Lighten up, will ya? */ mix-blend-mode: screen; /* for lighter backgrounds */ } .inverted-bar::after { /* When the going gets tough, the tough get darker */ mix-blend-mode: difference; /* for darker backgrounds */ }

Supporting older browsers with layered DIVs

To cater to older browsers, use two separate DIVs with duplicate text content. One DIV flaunts the usual text color, the other sports the inverse, revealing each according to the background preference.

Inspiring visuals using pseudo-elements

Unlock the power of ::before and ::after to engineer enchanting visual effects. A well-placed linear-gradient background mixed with mix-blend-mode yields an eye-catching color-infused text effect.

User interaction through hover effects

Boost user interaction with hover-triggered color adaptations. This not only captivates users but also demonstrates the text and background interplay's dynamic nature.

Refining layout and responsiveness

Your design should remain responsive and ensure text visibility regardless of device dimensions. Leverage properties background-position, width, overflow, and white-space for precise control over positioning and visibility.