Gradients may sound complex, but a gradient in CSS is simply one of those visual elements where an element behaves like an image based on data and type. It is used to show a smooth transition or multiple transitions between two or more colors, often as linear or radial effects. These can be used anywhere, but their most popular use is in the background, and more relevantly, they are a core part of extremely modern design.

This trend has been gaining popularity over the last several years, and it has always been around in some form (no pun intended). Some sources claim gradients are coming back, but of course, it is hard to say how something can come back if it never left, so we can chalk that up to semantics. As a designer, gradients allow you to explore new opportunities and provide fresh, clean designs for your audience.

From my own work, I’ve seen how the added flow between colors allows you to play with two-dimensional and three-dimensional aspects, taking visuals from boring to extraordinary. With simple code, or more complex setups if you like, you can make anything from the bare minimum to detailed effects. In fact, the best thing about gradients is how flexible they are.

You can let the browser figure out the rest, or take things into your own hands and identify the odds and ends yourself. Add a little extra if you wanted, and you’ll quickly discover the endless possibilities that gradients bring to modern interfaces.