Css content generation before or after 'input' elements

Diving into pseudo-element restrictions

The usage of pseudo-elements in CSS, unfortunately, doesn't work in sync with certain HTML entities like input, br, img. The primary reason centers around the self-closing nature of these elements, thus creating an impasse in virtual content addition.

Essentially, this arises due to how these replaced elements are rendered by the browser. They fill in as external content sources or placeholders for intrinsic content, and unfortunately, don't entertain the concept of appended virtual content.

Working around the restrictions

A case for textarea

The textarea takes a different trajectory. Although it's not an empty element, its reaction to ::before and ::after differs from traditional expectation. It borrows traits from the div content model, but doesn't quite join the pseudo-elements party.

Embracing labels

There's a semantic workaround at hand - using the <label> element associated with the input. The twofold benefit here includes easy application of pseudo-elements and improved accessibility, creating a win-win situation.

<label for="user-input">Username:</label>
<input id="user-input" type="text">


label::before {
  content: "👤 "; /* Emojis: The new hipsters of pseudoelements */
}

label::after {
  content: " **required"; /* Making forms exciting since the 90s */
}


Innovative wrapping

A consistent cross-browser styling solution involves using div or span wrappers around input elements. This approach can play a key role in facilitating pseudo-elements operations.

Addressing browser discrepancies

Behavioral inconsistencies of pseudo-elements across browsers can result in uneven user experiences. Thus, a smart approach would be to avoid using ::before and ::after on input, select, or button and other form elements to maintain a standard look.

References like CSS specifications and browser compatibility tables can guide you in identifying the universally supported methods.

Form aesthetics enhancers

As much as pseudo-elements add flavour to the input elements, you can still beautify your forms. Styling the wrappers or labels creatively and efficiently can implant brand impressions onto your form controls. You can tweak input focus state or validation feedback through CSS selectors like :valid and :invalid, by incorporating the required attribute for dynamic styling.

Coding solutions in a pseudo-element world

When pseudo-elements aren't an option, other strategies can do the trick. Adding background icons or padding can simulate content before or after input fields. Embrace the quirks, and explore diverse creative coding strategies to navigate through the complexity of HTML semantics and CSS.