CSS Color Properties: Complete Developer Reference

CSS offers numerous ways to work with colors. From basic color and background-color properties to advanced features like color-mix() and CSS custom properties, mastering color in CSS is essential for modern web development.

Basic Color Properties

color

Sets the foreground color of text and text decorations

color: #ff5733;

background-color

Sets the background color of an element

background-color: rgba(255, 87, 51, 0.5);

Border Colors

border-color

Sets the color of all four borders

border-color: #3b82f6;

Individual Sides

Control each border individually

border-top-color: red;

Advanced Color Features

CSS Custom Properties

:root {
  --primary-color: #3b82f6;
  --secondary-color: #10b981;
}

.button {
  background-color: var(--primary-color);
  border-color: var(--secondary-color);
}

Color Functions

color-mix(): Mix two colors togethercolor-mix(in srgb, red 50%, blue)

light-dark(): Different colors for light/dark modescolor: light-dark(black, white)

Conclusion

CSS color properties have evolved significantly, offering developers powerful tools for creating sophisticated color systems. From basic properties to advanced functions like color-mix() and CSS custom properties, modern CSS provides everything needed for robust color management.

The key is understanding when to use each property and function. Start with the basics, gradually incorporate modern features, and always consider performance and browser support for your target audience.

CSS Color Properties: The Complete Developer Reference