Swapping out a set of design values — mainly colors — so the same interface can wear different looks, such as a light and a dark mode, or a client's own brand colors, without redesigning the layout. The structure stays; the appearance changes.
Synonyms
- themeing
- skinning
Related terms
In plain words
- swapping colors for light or dark mode without rebuilding
- letting one interface wear different color outfits
Usage example
Thanks to theming, the app offered a dark mode by swapping color tokens rather than redrawing every screen.
Don't confuse with…
- white labelTheming changes the surface look; white label goes further, rebranding a product so it appears to belong to another company entirely.
Categories
- Design systems