Nostalgia is back as font trends go retro
Font platform Monotype’s annual trends report has just been released for 2021, and it shows big, tactile fonts are back.
From Burger King to Gucci, we’re embracing looks that nod to yesteryear and handwritten treatments that suggest a human touch.
The resurgence of this style is not too surprising. Humans get nostalgic in times of stress. And in a period when we’re experiencing a new and profound kind of isolation, the handmade feel of these fonts brings a comforting sense of personal connection.
But just as the economy is showing signs of roaring back, our tip is to expect a fast shift to powerful, kinetic and streamlined shapes when the vaccine rollout finishes and our social confidence returns.
Some of the 11 themes outlined in Monotype’s report will continue to resonate if that happens – like going big or using striking colour inversions.
But strong nods to the past or quaint hand-crafted “I made this” treatments? While we’re big fans of the aesthetic, we’re not so sure they’ll have a long reign beyond niche products.
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