The secrets of z-index: Ensuring nested elements stay behind their parent element

Check out this demo to see the problem:

http://jsfiddle.net/5sqxQ/2/

I am trying to make the sub menu appear below the main menu. I also want to use JavaScript to slide the menu from underneath when hovering over the parent li element.

I don't really care about the JavaScript part, but I just can't figure out how to style the elements correctly to get the desired layering effect.

Answer №1

The issue arises because of the z-index applied to the parent element, causing the child element to stack relative to other elements within the same parent.

When you specify a z-index value for an element (other than auto), that element creates its own stacking context. This results in all descendants of the element having their own stacking order in relation to the ancestor element.

For example, if the parent has a z-index of 9 and the child has a z-index of 8, it's as if you are giving them a z-index of 9, 8 respectively.

You can refer to this article for a more detailed explanation.

To resolve this, try removing the z-index from the parent element and setting the sibling element to z-index: -1. This workaround may vary in different browsers, but it should work in Chrome at least.

Take a look at the updated fiddle for reference.

I hope this solution helps you out.

Answer №2

There is no need for it.

What you can do instead is transform the a element into a "Sign In" feature.

Consider implementing something similar to this: http://jsfiddle.net/5sqxQ/15/

Answer №3

You could try adjusting the position of the parent and sibling containers to relative. I have successfully used this technique in the past.

Answer №4

Take a glance at the guidelines below on how elements are stacked, and you'll be able to devise your own solution effortlessly.

For instance, as thirtydot mentioned, assign a position (either relative or absolute) and z-index: 1 to "Sign In" in .users > li > a.

You can find more details on stacking order and stacking context rules in this link

Arranging Order within a Stacking Context

The sequence of elements:

  1. The root element of the stacking context (by default, it's the <html> element, but any element can serve as the root for a stacking context, refer to rules below)
    • You cannot place a child element behind the root stacking context element
  2. Positioned elements (along with their children) with negative z-index values (higher values stack in front of lower values; elements with equal values are stacked based on appearance in the HTML)
  3. Non-positioned elements (ordered by appearance in the HTML)
  4. Positioned elements (and their children) with a z-index value of auto (ordered by appearance in the HTML)
  5. Positioned elements (and their children) with positive z-index values (higher values stack in front of lower values; elements with equal values are stacked according to appearance in the HTML)

Formation of a Stacking Context

  • When an element serves as the root of a document (like the <html> element)
  • When an element has a position value other than static and a z-index value other than auto
  • When an element possesses an opacity value less than 1
  • Various newer CSS properties also establish stacking contexts. These include: transforms, filters, css-regions, paged media, and potentially others. Refer to https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/CSS/CSS_Positioning/Understanding_z_index/The_stacking_context for more information
  • As a general principle, it appears that if a CSS property necessitates rendering in an offscreen context, it must generate a new stacking context.

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