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August 18, 2026

Preserve the source theme on first render

A light-first template should remain light-first even when the brand supports a dark mode.

Vandoko Editorial
Vandoko Editorial
1 min read

Preserve the source theme on first render

Theme is part of a template's compositional character. Forcing every conversion into the same dark presentation erases useful variation and can conceal contrast problems.

Retheme, do not invert by default

Map the Vandoko core colors and supporting neutrals into the source token system. Preserve the source's initial theme and keep an alternate mode only when the template already supports it or the project requires it.

Both modes still need contrast, focus, imagery, and component review.

Review status

This first-party operating note is suitable for template demonstration. Add external claims only through the capture, adversarial review, refinement, research, and approval workflow.