Embracing Simplicity: Why I Chose HTML and CSS for My Portfolio
When I built my portfolio website, I opted for pure HTML and CSS; no frameworks, no JavaScript. This choice reflects my philosophy: keep things simple and choose tools that spark joy, match your skill level, and suit your tastes. Here’s why this approach worked for me and why it might resonate with you.
Why Simplicity and the Right Tools Matter
Using only HTML and CSS allowed me to create a portfolio that’s efficient, expressive, and true to my style. Here are the key benefits of this approach:
- Simplicity and Speed: HTML and CSS produce lightweight websites that load quickly and are easy to maintain, ensuring a seamless user experience. (freeCodeCamp)
- Accessibility: Semantic HTML ensures compatibility with assistive technologies and older browsers, making your site inclusive. (You Might Not Need JavaScript)
- SEO Benefits: Clean, structured HTML boosts search engine visibility, helping your portfolio stand out. (GeeksforGeeks)
- Skill Growth: Mastering these foundational tools builds confidence and prepares you for more complex technologies. (HTML is All You Need)
- Cost-Effective: No need for frameworks or paid tools, saving time and resources. (CodeCast)
- Responsive Design: CSS techniques like Flexbox and media queries ensure your site looks great on any device. (Tutorialspoint)
- Personal Branding: A minimalist portfolio showcases your unique style, setting you apart in a crowded digital space. (Look Ma, No React)
- Choose Tools That Make You Happy: As Fernando Borretti notes, you can pick tools that bring joy and align with your skills. HTML and CSS let me focus on creativity without complexity, making the process enjoyable and rewarding. (You Can Choose Tools That Make You Happy)
The Joy of Simple Tools
My philosophy is about embracing simplicity and selecting tools that feel right for you. HTML and CSS are accessible, versatile, and fun to work with, especially for those honing their craft. They allow you to create something impactful without the overhead of frameworks. For example, CSS Minecraft demonstrates how CSS alone can build an interactive, game-like experience—proof that simple tools can yield creative results.
Resources to Explore
Want to dive into this approach? These resources offer practical guidance and inspiration for building simple, effective websites with HTML and CSS:
- Revisiting Image Maps – Create interactive elements without JavaScript.
- Dialog Full Height with CSS – Build modern dialogs using CSS.
- CSS for Dialogs – Tips for styling dialogs with CSS.
- Hire HTML People – Why HTML and CSS skills are valuable.
- HTML is All You Need – The case for simplicity in web design.
- SVG Tutorial – Learn to use scalable vector graphics.
- Weird HTML Hacks History – Creative uses of HTML.
- Look Ma, No React – Benefits of a no-framework approach.
- Accessible Hamburger Buttons Without JavaScript – CSS-driven accessibility solutions.
- Tree Views with CSS – Create tree views with pure CSS.
- You Might Not Need JavaScript – CSS alternatives for interactivity.
- CSS Minecraft – A fun, CSS-only interactive project.
- You Can Choose Tools That Make You Happy – Embrace tools that suit your style.
- How to Build a Simple Portfolio Website With HTML and CSS – A beginner-friendly guide.
- Create A Portfolio Website with only HTML & CSS – Practical tips for building portfolios.
- Simple Portfolio Website Design using HTML – Focus on semantic HTML.
- Design a Portfolio Webpage Using HTML and CSS – Responsive design techniques.
Closing Thoughts
Building my portfolio with HTML and CSS was a rewarding choice that aligned with my love for simplicity and tools that feel right for me. This approach proves you can create something beautiful, functional, and unique without complexity. I encourage you to experiment with HTML and CSS, choose tools that make you happy, and build a portfolio that reflects your skills and personality.
Crepi il lupo!