Old style fonts, also known as humanist fonts, are a type of serif font that are modeled on the calligraphy of the Renaissance era. They were first developed by Venetian printers in the late 15th century, and became popular during the 16th and 17th centuries. Old style fonts were designed to be elegant and easy to read, with flowing lines and subtle variations in stroke width. In this guide, we’ll explore the basic characteristics of old style fonts, and how they differ from other types of serif fonts.

1. Angled Serifs

Old style fonts are characterized by angled serifs, which are short lines that project from the ends of each letter’s strokes. These serifs are designed to be elegant and delicate, and are often slightly curved or tapered. In contrast to the blocky serifs of modern fonts, old style serifs create a flowing and organic look.

2. Bracketed Serifs

Old style fonts also feature bracketed serifs, which are curved lines that connect the serifs to the strokes of each letter. These brackets create a gradual transition between the serif and the stem, and give old style fonts a softer and more subtle appearance. Bracketed serifs are particularly common in lowercase letters, where they help to create an even flow.

3. Low Contrast

Old style fonts tend to have low contrast between the thick and thin strokes of each letter. This means that the difference in stroke width is less pronounced than in modern serif fonts, which typically have high contrast. The result is a more even, harmonious look that is easier on the eye.

4. Rounded Forms

Old style fonts often feature rounded or curved letterforms, particularly in the lowercase letters. This softens the overall look of the font, and makes it more approachable and friendly. Rounded forms also help to create a sense of continuity between the letters, making old style fonts particularly well-suited to body text.

5. Open Apertures

Old style fonts typically have open apertures, which are the openings in letters such as ‘a’, ‘e’, and ‘o’. These open spaces help to improve legibility, as they create more white space within each letter. In old style fonts, the apertures are often wider than in modern serif fonts, which contributes to the font’s overall warmth and openness.

In conclusion, old style fonts are a classic and elegant type of serif font that have been used for centuries. They are characterized by angled, bracketed serifs, low contrast, rounded forms, and open apertures. While they may not be as flashy or modern as some other fonts, they are well-suited to a wide range of design applications, particularly those that require a warm and approachable look. Next time you need a serif font, consider using an old style font to add a touch of classic elegance to your design.