Systems and methods for applying effects to design elements

Described herein is a computer implemented method. The method includes detecting user input activating a text effect selection control. In response to the user input the method further includes: automatically generating a first shadow for a selected design element, the first shadow having a first colour, a first direction, a first offset, and a first opacity; automatically generating a second shadow for the selected design element, the second shadow having the first colour, the first direction, a second offset greater than the first offset, and a second opacity less than the first opacity; displaying the first shadow behind the selected design element; and displaying the second shadow behind the first shadow.