How to customize ``?

Adding the magic with JavaScript

JavaScript can provide that oomph to your functionality. Specifically, you can listen for the change event to display the user's chosen file name in your uniquely styled label.

Here's a brief JavaScriptcode to do just that:

// Let's get that file, and the glory!
const realInput = document.getElementById('real-input');
realInput.addEventListener('change', function() {
    const fileName = realInput.value.split('\\').pop();
    document.querySelector('.custom-file-upload').textContent = fileName || 'Upload File';
});
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Take note though, for security reasons, browsers might not reveal the actual file path, therefore it's common to just nab the filename.

Making it look good, everywhere

The bling of a customized <input type="file"> is cross-browser consistency. Since different browsers treat the default styling of file inputs distinctly, using the above method should produce consistent results across modern browsers. But for retro browsers, like IE8 (yes, they exist!), you may need extra fallback styles for the desired look.

File Upload: The Multiplication Table

To cover multiple file uploads, use a list or a table to display all chosen files. It's a fancy touch for managing multiple file uploads. So let's whip up a version of the previous approach with multiple file selection and file list display:

<!-- 'Because sometimes, one file is just not enough -->
<input type="file" id="real-input" hidden multiple/>
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And some JavaScript to handle the file listing:

realInput.addEventListener('change', function() {
    const fileList = realInput.files;
    const fileNames = [...fileList].map(file => file.name).join(', ');
    document.querySelector('.custom-file-upload').textContent = fileNames || 'Upload File';
});
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Security and accessibility: The Dynamic Duo

When suiting up controls, always keep security and accessibility in mind. Use semantic HTML and make sure your custom styles don't play spoiler for the assistive technologies. Always remember - it's not the cape, but the care that makes the superhero!

Adding Spice to the Style

Go wild and add things like icons or animations to your custom file input for a more dynamic UI. A loading spinner or progress bar can provide handy visual feedback for longer uploads. Here's a quick demo on how to add an icon using a popular library like Font Awesome:

<label for="real-input" class="custom-file-upload">
    <i class="fa fa-cloud-upload"></i> Upload File 
    <!-- Because who doesn't love a good cloud reference -->
</label>
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Frameworks: A programmer's style guide

CSS frameworks such as Bootstrap or Tailwind can provide a head start on styling and ensure uniformity. They often come with pre-made classes and components for jazzy file inputs.

Consistency: The key to immaculate design

Your custom file input should match your design language to maintain a consistent UI across your application or website. Uniformity in the use of colors, typography, and spacing is paramount.