Dark Mode Website Template: Ultimate Guide 2026

80%+ of developers use dark mode as their default in 2026. Here's how to design and build it correctly. The Color System Never use pure black #000000 . Use near-blacks: :root { --bg-base : #050505 ; /* Deepest background */ --bg-elevated : #0d0d0d ; /* Cards and panels */ --bg-floating : #141414 ; /* Tooltips, dropdowns */ --text-primary : #f5f5f5 ; --text-secondary : #a3a3a3 ; --accent : #e53e3e ; } Elevation Through Lightness In dark mode, elevation = lighter bg (not heavier shadow): /* Base *