How to vertical align an inline-block in a line of text?

Casing and unpacking the 'vertical-align' property

Before diving into real-life examples, let's take a brief look at the mysterious vertical-align property that seems to have magical powers. Vertical alignment is no wizardry. There are a few popular values that probably got your attention:

• baseline: Aligns the baseline of your element with that of its parent. In other words, it's like default-parenting.
• middle: Aligns the center of your element with the parent’s baseline plus half the x-height. Aka, the safest choice for the uncertain.
• top / bottom: Aligns the top/bottom of your element with the tallest element on the line. Aka, the extremists' choice.

For dynamic content, where the height and width paddle their own canoe, display: inline-block is a lifesaver as it allows the dimensions to adjust based on the content. Here's a quick snippet:

/* It's like telling an overexcited kitten "chill, I've got your back!" */
.dynamic-content {
  display: inline-block;
  vertical-align: middle;
}


For those dealing with legacy browsers, consider using display: inline !ie7 to keep the peace with our beloved past.

Should tables have more fun?

For those coding enthusiasts who want to power-up their inline-block with tables, do not worry - we got this. You can apply all the fun CSS styling inside to make heads turn. Starting from shaping the padding to dancing with text-align, there isn't anything we can't do!

/* Because tables deserve to be party animals! */
.table-inside-inline-block {
  background-color: #f7f7f7;
  font-size: 14px;
  font-weight: bold;
}


Venturing into the vertical dimension

Working with vertical text for those who love turning heads and challenging normality. Exploring writing-mode: vertical-rl; and text-orientation: upright;, you can set your text sailing vertically across the sea of imagination:

/* Say, "Make way for vertical boss" */
.vertical-text {
  writing-mode: vertical-rl;
  text-orientation: upright;
}


Refuse to take my word for it? Try it on different layouts, devices, and browsers. Because testing is believing.

Reigning over advanced vertical alignment

Embrace the quirks with Negative Margin

vertical-align is a friendly giant, but there are times when you need the mischief of negative margins. They might seem like rascals, but they're pretty useful for some tweaks in complex designs!

/* It's like saying, "When life gives you margins, go into the negatives!" */
.negative-margin {
  margin-top: -10px;
}


Unleash the power of Display table-cell

Let’s crank the sophistication up a notch for more intricate web layouts. Using display: table and display: table-cell, we can bridge the chasm to a realm of explosive creativity:

.container-dressed-as-table {
  display: table;
}

.child-masquerading-as-cell {
  display: table-cell;
  vertical-align: middle;
}


Bow before the Flexbox

For the pioneers of the web, Flexbox presents an array of options for vertical alignment. Responsive design without the headaches!

/* Now flex your coding muscles, respond to change like a Yoga Master! */
.flex-container {
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
}


Time to solve some head-scratchers

Baseline misunderstandings: an unexpected journey

Meet our prime suspect: baseline alignment. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, the baseline isn't always the bottom of your text, sometimes it gets a bit tipsy and seems off-center. Be patient with it.

Cross-browser inconsistencies: the deserter

Even with the same CSS, different browsers can portray vertical alignment differently. So remember, browser compatibility isn’t a myth, and thorough testing is your best co-conspirator.

Size differences in inline elements: the prankster

When dealing with a multitude of inline elements, differences in sizes can invite unwanted alignment issues. Using a consistent line-height might be your suit of armor against this potential chaos.