A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Dark Mode Email Templates in MJML
Introduction
Dark mode has become an increasingly popular trend among web and app developers, and it’s not difficult to understand why. This design feature, which uses a dark color scheme instead of the traditional light colors, reduces eye strain and makes reading content easier in low-light environments. As a result, many people are now choosing to enable dark mode on their devices, including their email clients.
In this article, we will be focusing on how to create dark mode email templates in MJML. MJML is a markup language that allows developers to easily create responsive email templates. It offers a range of built-in features that make it an ideal tool for designing emails, including the ability to create mobile-responsive templates and support for dark mode.
In the first part of this article, we will explore the importance of dark mode in email templates and provide an overview of MJML. We will then discuss how to create a basic email template using MJML and explain how to implement dark mode support in your designs. We will also cover the best practices and design tips to keep in mind when creating dark mode email templates, and we’ll explain how to test and optimize your designs for different email clients. By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to create beautiful and effective dark mode email templates using MJML.
Understanding Dark Mode
Understanding dark mode is a crucial aspect of designing effective email templates. Essentially, dark mode is a design feature that displays content using dark colors, as opposed to traditional light colors. This feature has become popular in recent years because it reduces eye strain and makes it easier to read content in low-light environments. Many email clients now support dark mode, which means that creating dark mode email templates is more important than ever.
It’s important to note that not all users will prefer dark mode, and some may choose to disable it altogether. However, offering a dark mode option in your email templates can help improve user experience and make your content more accessible to a wider audience.
One of the key benefits of dark mode is that it can help conserve battery life on mobile devices, particularly those with OLED displays. Because dark mode uses less energy to display content, it can help reduce battery drain and extend the life of a device’s battery.
Overall, understanding dark mode and its benefits is an essential aspect of designing effective email templates. By incorporating dark mode into your designs, you can improve user experience and accessibility, conserve battery life on mobile devices, and create a more visually appealing email template.
Creating an MJML Email Template
Creating an MJML email template is a straightforward process that requires basic knowledge of HTML and CSS. MJML offers a range of built-in features that make it an ideal tool for designing responsive email templates. To get started with MJML, you will need to set up a development environment and familiarize yourself with the basics of the language.
The first step in creating an MJML email template is to set up your development environment. You will need to install Node.js, which is a JavaScript runtime that allows you to run MJML on your computer. Once you have installed Node.js, you can install MJML using npm, which is a package manager for Node.js.
Once you have set up your development environment, you can start creating your MJML email template. MJML offers a range of built-in components, such as buttons, images, and text blocks, that you can use to create your design. You can also customize the look and feel of your template using CSS styles.
Here is an example of a basic MJML email template:
<mjml>
<mj-body>
<mj-section>
<mj-column>
<mj-text>
Hello World!
</mj-text>
</mj-column>
</mj-section>
</mj-body>
</mjml>In this example, we’ve used the <mj-text> component to display the text "Hello World!" in the email template. We've also wrapped this component in other components such as <mj-section> and <mj-column> to create a basic structure for the template.
It’s important to note that MJML is designed to create mobile-responsive email templates. This means that your template will automatically adjust to fit the screen size of the device it’s being viewed on. This is an important consideration in today’s mobile-first world, where more and more people are viewing emails on their mobile devices.
Creating an MJML email template is a simple process that requires basic knowledge of HTML and CSS. By using MJML, you can easily create mobile-responsive email templates that are optimized for viewing on a range of devices. The code snippet above is just a basic example, but with the range of built-in components and the ability to customize with CSS, you can create sophisticated and engaging email templates. Check the complete documentation here https://documentation.mjml.io/
Understanding Dark Mode Support in MJML
Understanding dark mode support in MJML is essential if you want to create effective and accessible email templates. MJML provides built-in features that allow you to create templates that are optimized for dark mode. By designing templates with dark mode in mind, you can enhance the user experience and ensure that your content is accessible to a wider audience.
To enable dark mode support in MJML, you will need to add the mj-class attribute to your components. The mj-class attribute allows you to define different styles for different themes, including dark mode. For example, if you want to change the text color to white in dark mode, you can add the following code:
<mj-text mj-class="dark-mode-text" color="#000000">
Hello World!
</mj-text>
.mj-text.dark-mode-text {
color: #FFFFFF;
}In this example, we’ve added the mj-class attribute to the <mj-text> component and defined a style for it in dark mode using CSS. We've also set the color attribute to black, which will be used in light mode.
It’s important to note that not all email clients support dark mode, and some may have different implementations. MJML provides a range of classes that you can use to target specific email clients and ensure that your template is optimized for dark mode on those platforms. For example, you can use the following classes to target Gmail’s dark mode:
.mjx-gmail-dark-mode {}
.mjx-gmail-dark-mode .mj-text {}By using the mj-class attribute and targeting specific email clients, you can ensure that your template is optimized for dark mode on a range of devices and platforms. The code examples above demonstrate how you can customize your template to display different styles in dark mode, allowing you to create engaging and visually appealing email content.
In addition to using the mj-class attribute, you can also use the mj-style tag to define styles specifically for dark mode. The mj-style tag is a built-in MJML feature that allows you to define CSS styles within your template.
Here is an example of how you can use the mj-style tag to define styles for dark mode:
<mjml>
<mj-head>
<mj-raw>
<meta name="color-scheme" content="light dark">
<meta name="supported-color-schemes" content="light dark">
</mj-raw>
<mj-style>
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
.dark-mode-text {
color: #FFFFFF !important;
}
}
</mj-style>
</mj-head>
<mj-body>
<mj-section>
<mj-column>
<mj-text mj-class="dark-mode-text">
Hello World!
</mj-text>
</mj-column>
</mj-section>
</mj-body>
</mjml>In this example, we’ve defined a style for the .dark-mode-text class using the mj-style tag. We've used the @media rule to target devices that have dark mode enabled. Within the media query, we've defined the color of the text to be white using the color property.
By using the mj-style tag, you can define styles that are specific to dark mode, without having to clutter your code with multiple mj-class attributes.
Here’s another example of how you can use the mj-style tag to define different background colors for light and dark mode:
<mjml>
<mj-head>
<mj-style>
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
body {
background-color: #121212;
}
}
@media (prefers-color-scheme: light) {
body {
background-color: #FFFFFF;
}
}
</mj-style>
</mj-head>
<mj-body>
<mj-section>
<mj-column>
<mj-text>
Hello World!
</mj-text>
</mj-column>
</mj-section>
</mj-body>
</mjml>In this example, we’ve defined two @media rules within the mj-style tag to set different background colors for light and dark mode. By using the body selector, we're targeting the entire email template.
Using the mj-style tag is another way to define styles specifically for dark mode in your MJML email templates. By using @media rules, you can target devices that have dark mode enabled and define styles that are optimized for that mode. The examples above demonstrate how you can use the mj-style tag to define different styles for text and background colors in dark mode.
Designing Dark Mode Email Templates
Designing dark mode email templates requires a slightly different approach than designing traditional email templates. You need to consider the color contrast and readability of your content in both light and dark modes. Here are some tips for designing effective dark mode email templates:
- Use high-contrast colors: In dark mode, light-colored text can be difficult to read against a dark background. Using high-contrast colors can help improve readability. For example, white text on a black background is a classic high-contrast combination that works well in dark mode.
- Avoid low-contrast colors: Similarly, low-contrast colors can be hard to read in dark mode. Avoid using colors that are too similar to each other, or that don’t provide enough contrast between the text and the background.
- Use images and graphics thoughtfully: Images and graphics can add visual interest to your email templates, but they can also affect the overall readability of your content. Be mindful of the contrast between the images and the background, and make sure the images don’t overpower the text.
- Test your templates: It’s important to test your email templates in both light and dark modes to ensure they are optimized for both. Use a tool like Litmus or Email on Acid to test your templates across multiple email clients and devices.
Here’s an example of how you can apply these principles to a dark mode email template:
<mjml>
<mj-head>
<mj-style>
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
body {
background-color: #121212;
color: #FFFFFF;
}
.header {
background-color: #242424;
}
.cta-button {
background-color: #FF6347;
color: #FFFFFF;
}
}
</mj-style>
</mj-head>
<mj-body>
<mj-section class="header">
<mj-column>
<mj-image src="https://example.com/logo.png" width="100" />
</mj-column>
</mj-section>
<mj-section>
<mj-column>
<mj-text>
Dear [Name],
</mj-text>
<mj-text>
Thank you for your recent purchase! We hope you're enjoying your new [product].
</mj-text>
<mj-image src="https://example.com/product-image.png" width="500" />
<mj-text>
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.
</mj-text>
<mj-button class="cta-button" href="https://example.com/contact">
Contact Us
</mj-button>
</mj-column>
</mj-section>
</mj-body>
</mjml>In this example, we’ve used high-contrast colors for the text and background, and we’ve added a header section with a dark gray background to help differentiate it from the rest of the content. We’ve also used a bright red button with white text to create a high-contrast CTA. Finally, we’ve added an image of the product that’s optimized for dark mode.
By following these design principles and testing your templates thoroughly, you can create effective dark mode email templates that look great and are easy to read in both light and dark modes.
Customizing Dark Mode Email Templates
Customizing dark mode email templates allows you to fine-tune the appearance of your emails in dark mode to match your brand or design aesthetic. Here are some ways to customize your dark mode email templates:
- Change the background color: By default, MJML uses a dark gray background color in dark mode. However, you can customize this color to match your brand or design aesthetic. To do this, simply add the following code to your MJML email template:
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
body {
background-color: #000000;
}
}In this example, we’ve set the background color to black (#000000) in dark mode. You can replace this color with any other color value to match your brand.
- Customize font sizes and styles: You can also customize the font sizes and styles in your dark mode email templates. To do this, you can use the
@mediaquery to target dark mode and adjust the font sizes and styles as needed. For example:
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
body {
font-size: 16px;
font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
font-weight: 400;
}
h1 {
font-size: 28px;
font-weight: 700;
}
}In this example, we’ve set the default font size to 16px and the font family to Arial, sans-serif in dark mode. We’ve also increased the font size and weight for the h1 heading to make it stand out more.
- Customize images and graphics: If you’re using images and graphics in your dark mode email templates, you can also customize them to match your brand or design aesthetic. For example, you can adjust the contrast and brightness levels of the images to make them look better in dark mode. You can also add borders or other effects to help them stand out more.
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
img {
filter: brightness(75%);
border: 2px solid #FFFFFF;
}
}In this example, we’ve applied a brightness() filter to the images to make them slightly darker in dark mode, and we've added a white border to help them stand out against the dark background.
- Use custom classes: Finally, you can use custom classes in your dark mode email templates to apply specific styles to different elements. For example, you can create a custom class for your CTA button to make it stand out more in dark mode.
@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
.cta-button {
background-color: #FF6347;
color: #FFFFFF;
border-radius: 5px;
padding: 10px 20px;
}
}In this example, we’ve created a custom class called cta-button and added styles to it for the background color, text color, border radius, and padding. This will make the CTA button stand out more in dark mode.
By customizing your dark mode email templates, you can create a unique and memorable email experience for your subscribers, while still maintaining readability and accessibility in dark mode.
Testing and Optimizing Dark Mode Email Templates
Testing and optimizing dark mode email templates is an important part of the email design process. Here are some tips to ensure your dark mode emails look great and perform well:
- Test your emails on different devices: It’s important to test your dark mode email templates on different devices and email clients to ensure they look consistent and readable across all platforms. Make sure to test your emails on both light and dark mode settings to ensure they look great in both modes.
- Use real-world scenarios: When testing your dark mode email templates, it’s important to use real-world scenarios to get an accurate picture of how they will perform in the wild. Send test emails to yourself and colleagues to get feedback on the readability, design, and performance of your emails in dark mode.
- Optimize your images: Images can be tricky in dark mode email templates. Make sure to optimize your images for both light and dark mode, and consider using high-contrast images to ensure they look great in both modes. Avoid using images with low contrast or muted colors, as they may be difficult to see in dark mode.
- Use A/B testing: A/B testing is a powerful tool that allows you to test different versions of your dark mode email templates to see which ones perform better. Try testing different color schemes, font sizes, and layouts to see which ones resonate best with your audience.
- Consider accessibility: Accessibility is important for all email templates, but it’s especially important for dark mode email templates. Make sure to use high-contrast colors, clear and readable fonts, and alt text for your images to ensure your emails are accessible to all subscribers.
Testing and optimizing your dark mode email templates is crucial for ensuring they look great, perform well, and are accessible to all subscribers. By following these tips, you can create dark mode email templates that are memorable, effective, and engaging for your subscribers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating dark mode email templates in MJML is a great way to ensure your emails look great and perform well in both light and dark mode settings. With the right techniques and tools, you can create stunning email templates that engage your audience and drive conversions.
By following the best practices outlined in this article, you can create dark mode email templates that are optimized for readability, accessibility, and performance. From designing and customizing your templates to testing and optimizing them for different devices and scenarios, there are many factors to consider when creating dark mode emails.
Ultimately, the key to creating effective dark mode email templates is to put your audience first. Consider their needs and preferences when designing and optimizing your emails, and make sure they are accessible to all subscribers. By doing so, you can create dark mode email templates that stand out, resonate with your audience, and drive results for your business.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about creating dark mode email templates in MJML:
Q: Is it necessary to create separate email templates for dark mode and light mode?
A: No, it’s not necessary to create separate email templates for dark mode and light mode. MJML’s built-in support for dark mode allows you to create a single email template that works well in both modes.
Q: What’s the best way to test dark mode email templates?
A: The best way to test dark mode email templates is to send test emails to yourself and colleagues on different devices and email clients. Make sure to test your emails in both light and dark mode settings to ensure they look great and are readable on all platforms.
Q: Are there any design considerations to keep in mind when creating dark mode email templates?
A: Yes, there are several design considerations to keep in mind when creating dark mode email templates. These include using high-contrast colors, using clear and readable fonts, and optimizing images for both light and dark mode.
Q: Can I use custom fonts in my dark mode email templates?
A: Yes, you can use custom fonts in your dark mode email templates. Just make sure to choose fonts that are readable and clear, and that are optimized for both light and dark mode.
Q: How can I ensure my dark mode email templates are accessible to all subscribers?
A: To ensure your dark mode email templates are accessible to all subscribers, make sure to use high-contrast colors, clear and readable fonts, and alt text for your images. You should also test your emails using screen readers to ensure they are accessible to visually impaired subscribers.
Q: What’s the best way to optimize images for dark mode email templates?
A: The best way to optimize images for dark mode email templates is to use high-contrast images with clear and bold lines. Avoid using low-contrast images or muted colors, as they may be difficult to see in dark mode. You can also use image editing software to adjust the contrast and brightness of your images for optimal readability in dark mode.
Thank you for reading, have a project to create an email template? Let’s collaborate. :)
