Best product label design: Tips and examples

Apple’s famous minimalism. Coca-Cola’s timeless script. Playful illustrations on Ben & Jerry’s ice cream pints.

The list of brands that have taken their labels to a whole new level goes on. These big names have made it clear that label designs can evoke emotions, bring consumers into a story, and make you want to reach for the product. They have made labeling their claim to fame, which has paid off in a big way.

These examples prove that great label designs can profoundly affect your product’s appeal. But what exactly separates a subpar one from a successful design that will be remembered for ages? Let’s delve into it.

What makes the best label design?

Hardly anyone would argue that readability and straightforwardness are the first signs of a good label. First and foremost, buyers should be able to promptly grasp what your product is and what it offers. 

Take Pepsi’s iconic label, for example. Its bold and prominent script on the red and blue background is effortlessly readable and instantly recognizable from a distance.

In addition to readability, many leading brands adhere to the following principles for labeling:

• Aesthetic appeal. A good label design should be a feast for the eyes that draws shoppers in. Consider the simplistic look of Apple product labels. Their neat lines and typography create an air of sophistication that is believed to be aesthetically perfect.
• Unique elements. To capture attention, your label should showcase particular features that set it apart from others. Method’s cleaning products demonstrate this effectively with their vibrant illustrations that bring a touch of flair to a usually dull category.
• Unified brand image. Labels don’t exist in a vacuum. They are an extension of your full-blown brand presentation. Starbucks’ labels, for instance, maintain a consistent look in every item they offer, reinforcing the brand at every touchpoint.

Strong label design is a megaphone for your product’s value. To make an impact, it should blend with your broader brand objectives and be coherent everywhere your customers come across your goods.

How to design a good product label

Decent labeling is far from being overly complex. In fact, some of the most memorable labels embrace simplicity and still pack a punch. Minimalist tags can actively grab attention, all thanks to techniques that make them eye-catching to buyers.

Here are a few of those.

Conciseness

Your goods should uncover essential information in a jiffy. Think about what your customer needs to know at a glance. The name of your product, your logo, and perhaps a key selling point should be immediately visible. A good label design is the opposite of cramming a host of details – it highlights what matters most.

Typography that speaks volumes

Your font choice should be legible from a distance and reflect your brand’s character. For example, Fever-Tree’s elegant, vintage-inspired lettering is excellent for complementing its premium positioning. On the other hand, see how Ben & Jerry’s playful style adds to the brand’s fun-loving image.

Color psychology

The best label designs nail color psychology. They use muted tones to exude sophistication and vibrant ones to scream energy. They feature contrasting colors to grab attention and nature-inspired hues to embody eco-friendly ethos. The strategic use of color also implies embracing white space. Apple is a prime example of how to utilize it effectively and convey a sense of top-notch quality.

Unusual features

Another way to keep it simple yet impactful is by playing with unexpected things. Jones Soda’s labels, which feature black-and-white photos sent by customers, demonstrate how an unconventional approach can underpin great label design. The distinctive imagery makes their bottles instantly recognizable on store shelves.

Storytelling through illustration

The most memorable product labels always tell a story. Hendrick’s Gin does this beautifully with its Victorian-inspired illustrations. Each label is like a miniature work of art, inviting customers to explore the brand’s world. This approach shows that a good design can do more than inform: it can transport consumers to another place.

Boldness

Sometimes, the best product label design is one that dares to be different. And BrewDog’s Punk IPA cans are a perfect example. Their labels break the mold with a stark graphic style and irreverent messaging. They are based on an attitude that’s perfect for the brand’s provocative identity. No doubt, they resonate with consumers with a rebellious streak.

Balancing information and appeal

It is a mistake to think that colors, fonts, and simplicity will do the trick alone. Your stickers and tags should also convey critical details about the product and must do it harmoniously. Chobani’s yogurt labels exemplify this balance. The brand marries bold flavor call-outs and appetizing imagery while clearly displaying nutritional information.

Common mistakes when creating a label

Before plunging into design, you must know how to sidestep frequent pitfalls. Here are some helpful notes you can bookmark without further ado:

1. Don’t try to cram too much info into a limited area. Keep your design uncluttered and easily digestible. Resist the urge to include every product detail. Focus on the essentials that will spark your customer’s interest.
2. Don’t neglect hierarchy. Avoid giving equal weight to all design elements. This approach results in a confusing jumble. Instead, prioritize your brand name, product type, and the greatest advantage. Other details can take a backseat.
3. Don’t ignore readability. In the pursuit of creativity, some designers forget that the fundamental purpose of a label is to inform. Make sure your font choices and sizes are legible for everyone. The best label design balances aesthetics with readability.
4. Don’t misalign with your brand. An independent product isn’t a standalone piece. It’s a crucial part of your brand’s visual story. A common misstep is creating a label that feels disconnected from your brand identity.

Lastly, don’t forget the technical aspects of printing. Colors may vary on screen, and certain elements might not translate well to different materials. 

You should always test your designs in the real world to make sure your labels look as good on the shelf as they do digitally.