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Shadcn Label

React label component for accessible form labels with semantic HTML and form association. Built with TypeScript and Tailwind CSS for Next.js using Radix UI.

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Ever clicked on a form field and wondered what the hell you're supposed to type? Or tried using a screen reader on a form that made no sense? Yeah, that's what happens when developers skip proper labels. This shadcn/ui label component handles all the accessibility magic so your React forms don't suck for everyone.

Label showcase

Clean, accessible labeling for any form control:

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Built on Radix UI primitives so the accessibility stuff just works automatically. Styled with Tailwind CSS and pairs perfectly with all the other shadcn/ui form components. Click the label, input gets focus—the way forms should work.

npx shadcn@latest add label

Why proper labels actually matter for user experience

Here's the thing—forms without proper labels are broken by design. Screen reader users hear "text field, text field, text field" instead of "email address, password, confirm password." That's not accessibility, that's just bad development.

But it's not just screen readers. Regular users get confused when they don't know what goes where. A label that says "Email Address" is clearer than a placeholder that disappears when you start typing. And here's a nice bonus: when you click the label, it automatically focuses the input. That little detail makes your forms feel polished instead of amateur.

This free shadcn label handles the complex parts—semantic HTML, form association, accessibility attributes—while you focus on building features. Whether you're creating login forms, surveys, or complex data entry in your Next.js applications, proper labels make your interfaces work for everyone in your JavaScript projects.

Essential label patterns you'll actually use

Checkbox with label

Much easier to hit the label than that tiny checkbox:

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Input with label

The classic input-label combo that works:

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Radio group labels

Each radio option gets its own clickable label:

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Required field indicators

Red asterisk so people know what's required:

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Textarea labeling

Works with textareas and complex inputs too:

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Features

This free open source label component includes everything you need:

  • TypeScript-first - Full type safety with form element association
  • Radix UI powered - Battle-tested accessibility and semantic HTML
  • Semantic HTML - Uses proper <label> elements, not divs with styling
  • Tailwind CSS styled - Customize with utilities, not fighting component CSS
  • Form association - Automatic connection to inputs via htmlFor attribute
  • Click behavior - Clicking label focuses associated form control
  • Screen reader friendly - Properly announces form relationships and context
  • Universal compatibility - Works with any form library or vanilla React

API Reference

Core Component

ComponentPurposeKey Props
LabelSemantic form labelhtmlFor, className, children

Form Association

PropTypePurpose
htmlForstringID of associated form control
classNamestringAdditional Tailwind classes
childrenReactNodeLabel text and content

Accessibility Features

FeatureImplementationBenefit
Semantic HTMLUses <label> elementScreen readers understand structure
Form associationhtmlFor connects to controlsClick label to focus input
ARIA supportIntegrates with form ARIAComplex forms work properly

Production tips

Connect labels properly. This free shadcn/ui label uses the htmlFor attribute to connect with form controls—make sure the IDs match. This TypeScript component provides the association, but you need consistent naming across your forms in your Next.js applications.

Write clear label text. "Email Address" beats just "Email." "Full Name" beats "Name." This open source shadcn component handles the markup—you provide text that actually helps users understand what you need from them in your React applications.

Mark required fields consistently. Use asterisks, "required" text, or visual indicators, but pick one approach and stick with it. This JavaScript component supports any content—maintain patterns that users can learn across your entire application.

Test with real accessibility tools. Turn on VoiceOver, NVDA, or JAWS and navigate your forms. This Tailwind CSS styled component provides proper semantics, but test the complete user experience to ensure everything makes sense when read aloud.

Position labels thoughtfully. Top-aligned labels scan faster than left-aligned ones. The component works in any layout—choose positioning that matches your users' mental models and reading patterns.

Integration with other components

Labels naturally work with Input components for text fields and Checkbox components for selections in your React applications. Use RadioGroup components with labels for single-choice selections.

For complex forms, combine labels with Form components for validation and error handling. Textarea components need labels just like inputs. This open source pattern keeps your forms consistent and accessible.

When building advanced interfaces, pair labels with Select components for dropdowns or Switch components for toggles. The label provides the semantic association—other shadcn components handle their specific interactions.

For form organization, use labels with Separator components to group related fields or Card components for structured layouts. Your JavaScript application can compose these components while maintaining proper accessibility.

Questions you might have