Why I won't use Comic Sans in my designs

I don't own a copy of Comic Sans. Or at least, that’s what I jokingly tell people when they ask me to use it. Here's why I won't use Comic Sans in my designs.

Comic Sans is best used in comics, not in commercial designs.

I see this typeface everywhere I go, and it makes me cringe. I see it in the high street on respectable shop signs and wonder what the shop owner sees in it? They're trying to be fun – I get it – but there are SO many amazing (and free!) typefaces out there, which I promise will represent your branding and your message a million times better.

You CAN look both fun / quirky / easygoing AND professional at the same time – it just takes a bit of patience and research to find the right pieces of the puzzle, but seeing as your branding is one of the most important investments you will make for your business, I believe it's worth the time and effort.

The thing about your brand, is it represents more than just your logo or favourite colours – it’s a representation of your whole ethos as a business, how you treat your customers and what you want to be known for. It’s also representative of how you want your customers to FEEL.

For example, if you needed to engage a solicitor, chances are, it’s a pretty serious matter. You need to feel like you can trust the person you employ to help you; like they really have your best interests at heart and importantly, that they are experienced in their field and have an abundance of knowledge to help you.

If the branding presented on their website, signage or letterheads used the jokey, child-like and informal Comic Sans, what would you think?

What about if the matter was a particularly upsetting one such as a divorce or a death? Would you feel the company would take the matter seriously, with compassion and care?

Branding absolutely has the power to influence how our customers feel and perceive us, whether we realise it or not, and this is why it is so important to speak to a professional about what you’re trying to achieve.

So, what would be a better choice? You can still achieve an approachable feel without sacrificing professionalism. San Serif choices such as Lato are often seen as modern and open.

For businesses that want to be seen as more approachable, with a friendly feel, look for fonts that are more rounded such as Poppins.

After a more traditional, trusted and established sort of look? Go for a Serif such as Garamond which will be seen as more elegant and refined.

Then, there’s all the whimsical choices in between. You may have a brand that calls for something a bit different and fun, for sure… and there will definitely be something out there that perfectly aligns with that vision.

For now, unless you’re putting together a child’s leaflet or comic, It’s time to step away from Comic Sans and try something new!

For a helping hand, send me a message and let's work together to elevate your brand to speak to the right people, in the right way.