Expandable Search Bar #coding #webdesigntools #webdevtutorial #programming #chatgpt

Expandable Search Bar
Want a sleek search bar that expands when clicked and shrinks when inactive—all without JavaScript?

Let’s make it happen with just CSS and Flexbox!

How It Works:

🔹 Wrap the search input inside a flex container (like nav) so elements align properly.
🔹 Set the input field’s width: 0 initially to keep it small when inactive.
🔹 Limit its maximum size using max-width to prevent excessive growth.
🔹 Use :focus-within on the container so when the user clicks inside, the input expands dynamically with flex-grow: 1.
🔹 When focus is lost, the input shrinks back, keeping the UI clean and clutter-free.

Why This Works So Well

✅ No JavaScript needed—CSS handles everything smoothly.
✅ Better UX—Keeps the search bar unobtrusive until needed.
✅ Works in all modern browsers—Flexbox and :focus-within are widely supported.
✅ Easy to customize—Adjust max-width, transition speed, and colors to fit your design.