Header Navigation
The primary navigation links typically placed in the site header, providing access to main sections. Header navigation should prioritize the most important destinations while remaining uncluttered. Design mobile variations carefully, often using hamburger menus to save space.
Header
Layout
The top section of a webpage, typically containing the logo, main navigation, and key actions like sign-in buttons. Headers establish brand identity and provide consistent navigation across all pages. Design headers to be useful without overwhelming—users should find what they need without excessive visual competition.
Navigation
Components
The system of links and menus that helps users find content and move through a website. Good navigation is consistent, clearly labeled, and reflects user mental models about site structure. Test navigation with real users to ensure your labels and organization make sense to your audience.
Navbar
Components
A navigation bar containing primary site links, typically fixed at the top of the page for constant access. Navbars establish site identity and provide consistent wayfinding across pages. Design navbars to be useful without overwhelming—prioritize the most important links.
Semantic HTML
Accessibility
Using HTML elements according to their intended meaning rather than just visual appearance, improving accessibility and SEO. Semantic elements like header, nav, main, and article convey document structure to assistive technologies. Framer generates semantic HTML from visual designs automatically. See How to use semantic tags for navigation and footers.
Dropdown Menu
Components
A navigation pattern where hovering or clicking reveals a submenu of additional links or options. Dropdown menus organize complex navigation hierarchies while keeping the main navigation clean. Test timing and hover zones carefully—frustrating dropdowns that close unexpectedly harm user experience. See Make Responsive Dropdown Menus From Scratch.
Carousel
Components
A rotating display of multiple pieces of content within a single space, allowing users to navigate through items using arrows or swipe gestures. While carousels save space, studies show users often miss content beyond the first slide—consider whether a grid might be more effective. If using carousels, ensure clear navigation indicators and consider auto-play carefully.
Footer Navigation
Layout
Links and content in the page footer providing secondary navigation, legal links, and supplementary information. Footers catch users who've scrolled through all content and need next steps. Include popular pages, contact information, and trust signals like security badges.
Sidebar
Layout
A vertical navigation or content panel typically positioned at the page edge, common in dashboards and documentation. Sidebars provide persistent access to navigation while leaving room for main content. Design sidebars to collapse gracefully on smaller screens.