Long-time designers will have to create designs of different styles. One client might require you to create a modern and clean look, while another needs you to make something wacky and cartoony. Some clients might want you to do something gothic, while others want something artistic. Being versatile is a requirement that serious designers will need to fill.
There are many techniques you can use when it comes to designs that need to evoke a sense of nostalgia. The use of sepia tone is prevalent, while using old-timey illustrations is another. However, one of the most important things you can do is to use retro fonts!
Good use of a vintage font will help transport your viewer back in time while also giving them all the information they need. These retro fonts will help you create the perfect logo for any project that requires a sense of nostalgia.
Here are some 20 retro typography fonts that will help you get that nostalgia edge in your design
1. Bambino retro font
This font is playful and fun while still easily readable. The thick strokes give it a retro feel that is perfect for any layout that wants to evoke a sense of fun. Retro fonts such as these are always popular with designers!
2. Beon
This font is perfect for any creative project that wants a hint of luxury. The thin strokes and small x-height make it look elegant and legible. The Beon font is generally used for high-class fashion branding.
3. Blue Highway Retro Text Fonts
Great for design layouts with a feeling of simplicity. The thin strokes and wide letters make it look basic while still modern. This is the perfect font for any project that wants a vintage feel without looking too old-fashioned.
4. Brody
If your retro design wants that feeling of ruggedness, you might want to check this font out. The thick strokes and rough edges make it look like it was carved out of stone, giving it a masculine feel. This would be the perfect font for any outdoor or adventure brand.
5. Campanile
This font is perfect for any project that wants to evoke a sense of grandeur. The thick strokes and large letters make it look imperative while still legible.
6. Carlito
The curly letters and bouncy feel make it look like a kids’ book, giving it a whimsical feel. This would be the perfect font for any project targeting children or families. This is one of the popular retro fonts out there!
7. Caslon
This font is excellent for any style that wants to get that feeling of tradition. The serif font and traditional lettering give it a classic feel that would be perfect for any heritage brand.
8. Clarendon
If you need sophistication, you can also go for Clarendon. The serifs and thin strokes give it a refined look that would be perfect for any luxury brand.
9. Cooper (Classic style!)
Amazing for any project that wants to give off that feel of manliness and strength. The thick strokes and rough edges make it look like it was carved out of stone, giving it a masculine feel. This would be the perfect font for any outdoor or adventure brand.
10. Franklin Gothic Retro Text Font
This font is perfect for any design layout that wants to evoke a sense of power. The thick strokes and wide letters make it look vital and clear. This is the perfect font for any project that wants to look luxurious without being too pretentious.
11. Futura
This font is perfect for any layout that wants to get that feeling of minimalism. The thin strokes and wide letters make it look basic yet modern at the same time.
This is the perfect font for any project that wants a vintage feel without looking too old-fashioned. Great for those designs looking for that vintage style!
12. Garamond
Are you going for class and sophistication? Then this font might be the right one for you. Garamond has been used for ages and is worth using in your design endeavors!
How to create a retro feel in your design?
1) Use filters that give off a sense of timelessness.
Vintage filters can be found in most editing software like Photoshop, lightroom, and even some online photo editors. These filters will help your image to take on the characteristics of an old film photo.
Some tips on using these filters:
- Start with a lower opacity so that the effect is not too strong. You can always increase the opacity if you want a more intense effect.
- Experiment with different blend modes. Some blend modes will work better than others, depending on your image.
- Use a layer mask to selectively apply the effect to certain areas of your image. This will help create a more natural look. Now that you know how to create a retro feel in your images, go out and have some fun with it!
2) If you want to go the extra mile, try adding grain or noise to your image.
This will help give it an even more vintage look. There are a few different ways you can add grain or noise to your image:
- Use editing software like Photoshop or Lightroom.
- Apply a texture to your image.
- You can find free textures online or create your own.
- Scan in a piece of paper that has been crumpled up.
This will give your image some nice texture. Experiment until you find something you like, no matter what your method is. There is no right or wrong way to do this, so have fun with it!
Pro Tip: Look for Free Retro Fonts! (Personal and Commercial Use)
Before purchasing anything, look for a free retro font on the internet! Free retro fonts are all over, so try them out before buying anything. Also, check out the other font categories like a serif font, display typeface, other vintage typefaces, and bold serif to cater to your unique style.
Getting that old feeling!
There are many ways to create a retro feel in your design. Whether you use vintage filters, grainy textures, or traditional fonts, you can easily give your project a sense of nostalgia. Do not forget to check if those free retro fonts are allowed for commercial and personal use.
Have fun hunting free retro fonts!
