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Anatomy

The Avatar consists of three primary elements that work together to visually represent an entity.
Anatomy of an
Avatar
  1. Avatar body
  2. Status indicator (Optional)
  3. Avatar Group

Options

The Avatar supports multiple content types, sizes, and grouping configurations to accommodate various representation scenarios.

Image

Initials

When an image is not used, the avatar displays initials derived from the name, calculated based on specific rules. When two or more words are used, the first letter of the first two words is used. When only one word is provided in the name, the first two letters are used. On ‘small’ Avatars, only the first letter is used regardless of what name is used.

Custom background colors

Avatars provide one color by default. They accept any color or Token value. Text color auto-calculates to achieve the highest available contrast. Use a Token value that supports theming.

Sizes

TypeDimensions
Small24px / 1.5rem
Medium32px / 2rem
Large48px / 3rem

Status

Avatars can also convey an online or offline status.

Grouping

Avatars can be grouped together in a condensed form. The specific spacing depends on the size of individual Avatars. Grouping also allows for a max count of Avatars, where a +X will be displayed in place of additional Avatars. This cutoff is configurable to any number.

Status in groups

Usage Guidelines

When to Use

Avatars are appropriate when referencing a person. They also represent other entities such as businesses. Follow local standards for business entity representation.

When not to use

Avatars should be avoided to display icons or emojis, and an element such as a Button may be more appropriate.

How to Use

Optionally add text labels to Avatars

Text labels are not provided directly with an Avatar, but are recommended when space allows. Customize labels as needed.
Avatar how
label

Adding interactivity to an Avatar

Combine an avatar with a Button Compound to add interaction. This provides interactive states and accessibility.
Avatar how
compound

Only use a Tooltip when also adding interactivity

Since an Avatar is non-interactive by default, use a Tooltip when the Avatar is focusable by adding tabIndex={0}. A text label next to the Avatar is still the preferred option.
Avatar how tooltip
caution
Caution

Don’t make isolated changes to an Avatar’s shape

Shape is consistent when representing a category of entities. Deviating from this confuses users.
Avatar how shape
don't
Don’t

Content

Avatar will always display initials when no image is provided.

Keyboard Interaction

The default Avatar and Avatar Group, do not have any keyboard interactions.
Last modified on January 23, 2026