Display fonts form a distinctive group of typefaces that stand out from regular text fonts due to their unique characteristics. These fonts are primarily used for larger sizes, making them an ideal choice for headings, advertisements, banners, and any other materials that require attention-grabbing typography. This article will explore what defines display fonts, their key features, and their practical applications in design.
What Are Display Fonts and their Features?
Display fonts are designed with bold and expressive characteristics that make them suitable for large text sizes. They are not intended for long paragraphs or body copy but are specifically made to draw attention in short bursts of text, such as headlines, logos, and promotional materials. Display fonts are used to highlight specific phrases or sections in a design, helping to create a visual hierarchy and establish focus. These fonts often come with unique, imaginative designs that reflect their purpose of capturing attention. Here are the key features of display fonts:
Large Point Sizes
Display fonts are typically used at larger point sizes, often starting from size 14 and up. This ensures that they are bold and noticeable from a distance, perfect for posters, advertisements, and other marketing materials.
Original Design
One of the most defining features of display fonts is their original design. Unlike text fonts, which prioritize legibility and simplicity, display fonts embrace creativity. Designers often experiment with unique serifs, shapes, and proportions to create something memorable. These fonts can be highly decorative or even eccentric, reflecting the personality of the brand or project they represent.
Expressive Styles
Display fonts are meant to stand out and convey emotions or moods. They can appear formal or informal, modern or vintage, depending on the design objectives. Whether it’s for a playful product launch or a sophisticated event, display fonts can be tailored to fit the tone of the message.
Not for Running Text
Display fonts are not suitable for running text or body copy. They are optimized for larger blocks of text and should be paired with complementary text fonts for readability. Text fonts, which are designed with legibility in mind, ensure that the main content remains easy to read, while display fonts provide a striking visual contrast.
Popular Display Fonts by TypeType
TypeType, a renowned font foundry, offers a wide range of display fonts that cater to different design needs and moods. Some of their most popular display fonts include:
TT Travels Next: A dynamic and versatile font with a modern feel, TT Travels Next is perfect for travel-related materials or any project that requires a sense of movement and adventure.
TT Ricordi Marmo: This font offers a classic, elegant design with unique details that add sophistication to any project. TT Ricordi Marmo is often used for luxury branding and high-end products.
TT Globs: Bold and playful, TT Globs combines geometric shapes with a contemporary feel. It is ideal for projects targeting younger audiences or creative campaigns that need a touch of fun.
TT Fors: A bold, yet sophisticated display font, TT Fors is designed for a wide range of uses, from fashion to technology, offering versatility in various contexts.
TT Geekette: For something truly unique, TT Geekette is a quirky and futuristic font that stands out with its eccentric design. This font works well for tech startups or creative projects looking for an innovative, cutting-edge look.
Conclusion
Display fonts play an essential role in the world of design, bringing personality, originality, and emphasis to various types of communication materials. Their boldness and creativity make them a perfect choice for headlines, advertisements, branding, and any project that needs to make a statement. Whether formal or playful, traditional or modern, display fonts can adapt to suit the needs of any project. In the TypeType collection, you’ll find a wide range of display fonts, each with its own distinctive features that allow you to enhance your designs.