SHOUT or whisper? – A quick guide on some of the main principles of Contrast in Design, and how and when to use them for effective communication and user experience.
When thinking about how to use contrast in design to its best effect, consider the following about the different elements of your design and what the most important thing is you need to communicate:
Star of the show or supporting cast?
Step out or blend in?
It’s not just about black and white. It’s the scream of bold typography against a minimalist background. It’s the gentle caress of pastel interior lounge design, giving you the right feels just when you need.
Main principles of Contrast in Design.
Dark & Light Contrast:
Colour Contrast:
Contrast of shape:
Contrast of Size:
When to use High Contrast.
Think: IMPACT. URGENCY. CLARITY.
It demands attention, cuts through the noise.
It’s the visual equivalent of a Lion’s booming roar. All will STOP and listen!
Use high contrast to communicate your most important message.
When to use Low Contrast.
It’s the subtle poetry of a brand’s story.
NUANCE. EMOTION. CONNECTION.
It invites you in, makes you linger, ponder, wonder.
It’s the deep blue endless sky on a dark night allowing the stars to shine.
Use low contrast when you want the user to feel calm, and to help them locate the high contrast message easily.
Whether you’re designing your dream home, deciding on an outfit, or designing a website – ask yourself: What message do you need to say with confidence? And what story are you whispering?
Are you creating a digital billboard, or a personal invitation? Are you demanding action, or fostering trust?
In a world saturated with noise, understanding the delicate dance of contrast isn’t just a design choice. It’s a strategic tool.
In any design, it’s not a great idea to have EVERY message screaming, or shouting for attention.
Normally, you need to have a hierarchy in your message. The most important thing you want people to see or think or read or feel should have the most contrast. It should speak the loudest.
Let’s say for example, you have spectacular eyebrows – then why not go with a natural lipstick colour and neutral facial makeup and go with a bold emphasis on those big beautiful brows! Maybe a silly example, but you get the point, right?
Let the IMPORTANT THINGS SHINE with high contrast! 🌟
Need some advice on your messaging?
