When designing a cover of a fashion magazine here are some tips to keep in mind:
One of the design concepts for May 2021 Doe Magazine Creative Brief Issue
Although magazines aren’t as popular as they once were there are still many independent publications hitting the fashion scene with such beautiful imagery. However, sometimes the typography can just be an afterthought that is just quickly placed on.
If you want your design to look well designed here are some things to keep in mind when designing a cover of a magazine.
Pick a striking image that captures attention. It should be more than just pretty. It should be interesting in some way, whether it be an interesting pose, an interesting fashion style, or basically something that you wouldn’t see every day.
Font Choices on the Magazine shouldn’t exceed 3 (including title) Pick something a little more stylish than Arial but don’t go too trendy where the font distracts from the title of the magazine
The type should not be super close to the edge or super close to each other unless it’s intentionally trying to create a punk / zine type of feel.
Keep all article headings the same size for consistency.
Be careful of putting type over the model’s face. I once saw a title where it looked like the letter was about to go up the model’s nose 😣
Although you may see bigger name magazines break these rules it is more accepted because of an established name. It’s like the Pablo Picasso quote says “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Or else the cover design can then appear to be done carelessly and less polished than the elevated photography style implies.
Let me know if this helps you or if you create a fashion magazine cover tag me @studiorayn I’d love to see it.