In Light Mode, elevation and depth are created using black drop shadows:
#FFFFFF).box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)).In Dark Mode, this physics model breaks down completely: black shadows are invisible against a dark background.
The Material & Modern OS Solution: Surface Lightening In dark interfaces, the closer an elevated surface is to the simulated light source (closer to the user), the lighter its surface tint becomes:
#090D16 (deepest, darkest)#131B2E (subtle lightening)#1E293B (distinctly elevated)#2A3854 (highest elevation, lightest surface)Level 3 · Design Tokens & Foundations