Neumorphism or Soft UI in web-designing, is a design style that uses soft, gradient-based shapes and a focus on 3D depth and lighting effects. It combines elements of skeuomorphism (a design style that closely mimics the appearance and functionality of real-world objects) and flat design (a design style that uses simple, flat shapes and colors). Besides, it creates a more realistic and tactile look and feel. It involves using subtle gradients, shadows, and highlights to create a sense of depth and dimension. It can be achieved using a variety of techniques, including CSS and SVG filters.
2010: Emergence of neumorphism or Soft UI in Web Designing
The Neumorphism style emerged in the late 2010s and has gained popularity in recent years. It is popular, particularly in the design of user interfaces and mobile apps.
The origins of neumorphism can be traced back to the concept of skeuomorphism. It imitated physical objects in a digital environment, with elements on the website designed to look like their real-life counterparts. For example, a virtual button is designed to look like a physical button).
However, as the trend towards flat and minimalistic design gained popularity, skeuomorphism fell out of favor. Neumorphism emerged as a more modern and updated version of skeuomorphism. It focuses on soft, gradient-based shapes and a more realistic and tactile look and feel.
In the years since its emergence, neumorphism has become a popular choice for designers looking to create a more immersive and interactive user experience, particularly in the design of user interfaces and mobile apps.
Example of Neumorphism CSS
A simple example of CSS to create Neumorphism effect is below.
background: linear-gradient(145deg, #cacaca, #f0f0f0);
box-shadow: 20px 20px 60px #bebebe,
-20px -20px 60px #ffffff;
More advanced versions can be created using colors and different values of blur, shadows, roundness etc.
What are the Variations of Neumorphism or Soft UI?
There are several variations of neumorphism that can be used in web design, including:
Light neumorphism:
It is a variation that uses light-colored shapes and gradients to create a more subtle and softer look. It can be a useful design style in various contexts, including user interfaces, websites, and mobile apps. Further, this can create a more calming and relaxed atmosphere, as the light colors and soft shapes can be visually soothing. It is particularly well-suited for use in calming or meditative apps or websites, or in contexts where a more relaxed and calming atmosphere is desired.
Dark neumorphism:
It is a variation that uses dark-colored shapes and gradients to create a more bold and more dramatic look. Moreover, it can create a more dramatic and powerful atmosphere, as the dark colors and bold shapes can be visually striking. This is particularly well-suited for use in edgy or high-energy apps or websites, or in contexts where a more dramatic and powerful atmosphere is desired.
Flat neumorphism:
This is a variation of the neumorphism design style that uses flat, two-dimensional shapes and gradients. However, some designers consider it as a separate design style from neumorphism – Flat Design or Flat UI. It is also sometimes considered as the predecessor of neumorphism. It helps to create a more minimalistic and modern look. One of the main benefits is that the flat shapes and gradients can be visually clean and uncluttered. It is particularly well-suited for use in modern or minimalist apps or websites.
Textured and Abstract neumorphism:
It is a variation that uses textured shapes and gradients to create a more realistic and tactile look. Anything which resembles neumorphism but does not come under the above three variations can be grouped under textured and abstract neumorphism. One of the main benefits is that the textured shapes and gradients can mimic the look and feel of real-life textures. It is particularly well-suited for use in designs that aim to create a realistic and immersive user experience, such as in virtual reality or augmented reality applications.
A wide range of visual effects and styles can be created using these in combination or individually.
Benefits of Neumorphism
One of the main benefits of neumorphism or soft UI in web-designing is that it can create a more immersive and interactive user experience. It uses visual effects to create a sense of depth and dimension on the screen. This can be particularly effective in the design of user interfaces, where a more realistic and tactile look and feel can enhance the usability and appeal of the product.
However, it is important to note that neumorphism is not suitable for all types of designs. It should be used with caution. This can be particularly difficult to create a cohesive and balanced design using this style, and it may not be suitable for all types of brands or products. Further, it is important for designers to carefully consider the suitability of neumorphism for their specific design project.
Online Neumorphism CSS Generator
Here is a list of online neumorphism CSS generators that you can use to create neumorphic designs:
- Neumorphism.io
- Neumorphism CSS Generator
- Neumorphic Generator
- Neumorphism/Soft UI CSS shadow generator
- Soft UI/Neumorphic Button CSS Generator
These tools can be a useful resource for designers looking to create neumorphic designs quickly and easily. However, it is essential to note that these tools may not offer the same level of customization and control as designing neumorphic styles manually using CSS.
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