tailwind-v4

Tailwind v4 configures design tokens CSS-first using the @theme directive to define CSS variables. You define baseline color, spacing, and typography tokens directly in your CSS entry point, eliminating the need for traditional JavaScript configuration files.

The @theme directive in Tailwind v4 defines design tokens as native CSS variables for theming. It supports dark mode strategies by applying semantic theming and OKLCH color tokens across your project using theme modes like default, inline, and reference.

Migrating to the Tailwind v4 CSS-first approach involves moving your JavaScript configuration definitions into @theme directives. This consolidates theme management into CSS variables, reducing boilerplate and aligning design tokens directly with Tailwind utilities.

Yes, Tailwind v4 CSS-first theming applies to frontend UI development across Vite-based projects. You add Tailwind v4 and define your baseline tokens in a single CSS entry point to begin theming immediately without JavaScript dependencies.

OKLCH color tokens in Tailwind v4 provide a perceptually uniform color space for building cohesive design systems. Combined with @theme directives, they ensure consistent semantic theming and accurate color transitions across dark mode implementations.

Using CSS variables for Tailwind v4 design tokens requires understanding @theme modes like default, inline, and reference. While it reduces boilerplate, developers must adapt to CSS-first configuration and abandon traditional JavaScript config files.