5 Design Strategies for Attention-Grabbing Packaging

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 18 July 2023 6 min read

When it comes to grabbing your customer's attention, the power of thoughtful packaging can't be understated. It's the visual appetizer that whets the consumer's appetite for what's inside. This blog post will walk you through five proven strategies for creating packaging that pops: elevating design from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

1. Maximize Color Psychology

Color is more than a visual treat—it can stir emotions, convey messages, and even influence buying decisions. Let's explore how you can leverage color psychology to make your packaging pop.

Choose Attention-Grabbing Colors

Bright, vibrant colors tend to catch the eye faster than muted or pastel shades. Think of iconic brands like McDonald's and Coca-Cola—they use red, a color associated with excitement and urgency. But remember, attention-grabbing doesn't mean you should slap on every bright color. Pick one or two that align with your brand personality and stand out on the shelves.

Consider Your Target Audience

Who are you trying to attract with your packaging? Different colors resonate differently with various demographics. For example, blue is often favored by both genders, while pink has traditionally been used for products targeting women. Take into account cultural nuances too—while white symbolizes purity in some cultures, it can also represent mourning in others. So, when you're brainstorming for packaging that pops: elevating design to appeal to your audience is the key.

Color Consistency Across the Brand

Consistency is the cornerstone of trust. And when it comes to color, maintaining a consistent palette across your packaging, logo, and other branding elements helps reinforce brand recognition. For instance, you'd instantly recognize a Tiffany & Co. product by its distinct 'Tiffany Blue' packaging. Therefore, consistency is not just about uniformity—it's about making a memorable impression.

2. Leverage Typography

Typography is another powerful tool in your "packaging that pops: elevating design" arsenal. It's not just about being readable—it's about making a statement. Let's dive into how you can use typography to your advantage.

Select Legible Fonts

The first rule of thumb is to choose fonts that are easy to read. After all, if customers can't read your product's name or information, they're less likely to trust or buy it. So, while that fancy script font might look appealing, ask yourself: can someone quickly read this from a distance? If not, it's best to stick with something simpler.

Use Typography to Convey Brand Personality

Your font choice can say a lot about your brand's personality. Serif fonts, such as Times New Roman, often come across as traditional or reliable. Sans-serif fonts like Arial or Helvetica can give a modern, clean impression. Fun, quirky fonts might be perfect for a children's product. Think about what you want your brand to convey, and choose a font that embodies that.

Balance Font Sizes

Size matters in typography. The size of your text can emphasize important information and create a visual hierarchy on your packaging. Larger fonts typically draw the eye first, so use them for your brand name or product title. Smaller fonts can be used for secondary information that's still important but doesn't need immediate attention. The key is creating a balance that guides the customer's eye naturally through the packaging.

3. Use Imagery Effectively

Images can pack a punch when it comes to creating packaging that pops: elevating design to new heights. They can tell a story, evoke emotions, and make your packaging visually appealing. Here's how to use imagery effectively in your packaging design.

Select High-Quality Images

First and foremost, always go for high-quality images. Blurry or pixelated images can make your packaging look amateurish and unprofessional. High-quality images, on the other hand, can make your product look premium and trustworthy. Whether you're using photos, illustrations, or graphics, ensure they are crisp, clear, and well-printed.

Ensure Imagery Relevance

Relevance is key when choosing images for your packaging. The imagery should be directly related to your product or brand. For instance, a picture of a fresh, juicy apple would be a great fit for apple juice packaging. Irrelevant images can confuse customers and dilute your brand message. So, always ask yourself: Does this image make sense for my product?

Utilize Imagery to Tell a Story

Another great way to use imagery is to tell a story. Maybe it's the story of how your product is made, or the story of the people behind your brand. You could even create a series of images that tell a story when the product packaging is lined up on a shelf. This can create a connection between you and your customers, and make your packaging that much more engaging.

4. Create Interactive Packaging

It's no secret that packaging that pops: elevating design is about more than just looks. Interaction is the next big thing in packaging design. By making your packaging interactive, you can engage your customers and create a memorable unboxing experience. Let's discover how to amp up the interactivity of your packaging.

Incorporate QR Codes

QR codes are a simple and effective way to make your packaging interactive. By scanning the QR code with their smartphone, customers can be taken to a website, video, or other digital content. This could be a page with detailed product information, a how-to-use guide, or even a fun game or contest. The possibilities are endless, and it's a fantastic way to extend the customer experience beyond the physical product.

Add Augmented Reality Features

Augmented reality (AR) is another exciting way to create interactive packaging. With AR, customers can use their smartphones to see virtual 3D models, animations, or other content overlaid on your packaging. For instance, a cereal box could come to life with a 3D cartoon character that kids can play with. This can make your packaging truly pop and provide a fun, unique experience for your customers.

Design with Interactive Elements

Finally, don't forget about physical interactive elements. This could be something simple like a package that can be transformed into a toy or a useful item. Or it could be something more intricate, like a puzzle that has to be solved to open the package. By making your packaging not just a container, but an integral part of the product experience, you can take your packaging design to the next level.

5. Prioritize Sustainability

When it comes to packaging that pops: elevating design isn't just about visuals and interaction. With increasing awareness about our environment, sustainability has become a key factor in packaging design. Let's dive into how you can prioritize sustainability in your packaging while still making it pop.

Choose Eco-Friendly Materials

First things first: the materials you use. Consider opting for recycled or recyclable materials for your packaging. Cardboard, paper, and bioplastics are all excellent choices. Not only are these materials better for our planet, they can also add a unique look and feel to your packaging. Who says eco-friendly can't be stylish?

Communicate Sustainability Through Design

Next, use your packaging design to communicate your brand's commitment to sustainability. This could be a simple message printed on the packaging, or a logo indicating that the packaging is recyclable. You could also use natural colors or imagery to evoke a sense of nature and sustainability. It's a subtle yet powerful way to show customers that you care about more than just profits.

Consider the Lifecycle of the Package

Finally, think about the lifecycle of your packaging. What happens to it after the customer has unboxed the product? Could it be reused in some way, or easily recycled? By designing with the end of the package's life in mind, you can create packaging that is not just attractive but also responsible. That's truly packaging that pops: elevating design to a new level!

If you're looking to further enhance your packaging design skills and elevate your career, don't miss out on the workshop titled 'Building and Elevating Your Career' by Mar Delmar. This workshop will not only provide you with advanced design strategies but also help you build a successful career in the creative industry.