Retro Aesthetic

Creates a timeworn impression with subdued color simple geometry and slight fading.

Visual traits

• past-evoking color
• simple geometry
• print character

Expected changes

• Color is more likely to appear subdued and faded
• Shapes and surfaces are more likely to resemble print

Definition

It uses colors forms and print character evocative of the past to create nostalgia. It does not specify a particular decade work person or place.

In more detail

It uses subdued color simple geometry and slight fading to create a timeworn impression. Subject and composition remain separate choices.

Includes

• Visual treatment using past-evoking color form and print character

Excludes

• Faithful recreation of a particular decade
• A particular work or person
• Real brand design

What this does not imply

• A particular decade
• A particular work or person
• A real brand

Variability

Because the evidence is a general media source, period-evoking details may vary.

Usage

• Coordinate color with printed surface character
• Specify subject and scene separately

Distinguish similar expressions

• Specify named decades works and brands separately

Typical uses

• Add a nostalgic impression
• Shape surfaces and color without changing the subject

Possible failure modes

• Fading makes the image dull
• Details from periods are mixed inaccurately