How to make side menu app icons appear without a background color for a more minimalist look

To make side menu icons appear without a background color, turn off the icon background option in the menu appearance settings — apps then display just the icon itself, without the colored square behind it.

Why choose a look without a background?

Companies going for a cleaner, more minimalist look tend to prefer "loose" icons, without color blocks that visually compete with the rest of the interface. This reduces visual clutter in the menu, keeping the focus on app names and icons.

This adjustment also pairs well with more neutral color palettes, since it removes an extra visual element that, depending on the color chosen, could clash with the company's identity.

How to remove the icon background

  1. Go to the side menu appearance settings.
  2. Find the option to show or hide app icon backgrounds.
  3. Turn off the background — icons now appear on their own, without the colored square.
  4. Combine it with magnetic menu mode for an even lighter look.

Setting Resulting look
With background Icon inside a colored block
Without background Just the icon, minimalist look

Why choose Jestor

  • Side menu with folder hierarchy and customizable style, part of the Jestor 7.0 redesign.
  • Appearance adjustments applied automatically, no coding required.
  • Free combination of colors, icon background, and menu format to match the company's identity.

FAQ

Does removing the icon background affect navigation?

No, the icons' functionality stays the same; only the look changes.

Is this adjustment per user or account-wide?

It's applied to the account as a whole, reflecting in the menu for every user.

Can I switch back to the colored background later?

Yes, the option can be turned back on at any time in the appearance settings. See more at jestor.com.

Reference video

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