Incomplete background shape

How to use it

Put a background shape behind an element, but have it so that the shape does not completely surround the element.

When to use it

This is a visual interest change and not much else. It adds a sense of movement because the combination of foreground element and background shape are unbalanced in a certain direction.

What to watch out for

You should be bold with this technique so that people know it’s not a mistake. The example below shows a rectangle but you could use this technique with any shape.

Examples