Description: Currently, Figma allows switching between different Modes (e.g., Light/Dark) within a single variable collection. However, there is no built-in functionality to switch between entire Variable Collections dynamically. This limitation makes it challenging to manage multiple themes efficiently, especially in large-scale design systems where different themes (e.g., Default, Gaming, Minimal, Custom) share a common structure but require separate sets of values.
Proposed Feature: Collection Switching
We propose adding an option that allows users to switch entire Variable Collections in the same way they can switch Modes. This would enable designers to define multiple themes and toggle between them seamlessly without needing to manually update Aliases or duplicate components.
How It Would Work:
- Collection Selector: Similar to the Mode switcher, users can select a Collection (e.g., Theme 1, Theme 2, Custom Theme) from a dropdown in the Variables panel.
- Automatic Updates: When switching Collections, all components linked to the active Collection’s variables should update dynamically.
- Cross-Collection Aliases: Allow variables in one Collection to reference variables from another, enabling more flexible theme management.
- Plugin/API Support: Extend the Figma API to allow developers to integrate Collection switching in plugins and automate workflows.
Benefits:
- Efficient Theme Management: Designers can switch between multiple themes instantly without restructuring files.
- Scalability: Large design systems can maintain consistency while supporting multiple brand identities.
- Better Collaboration: Teams can prototype and preview multiple themes in real-time without manual updates.
This feature would significantly enhance workflow efficiency for teams working with multi-theme design systems and improve Figma’s versatility in UI/UX design. We believe it aligns with Figma’s mission of making design systems more powerful and flexible.