Typeface Selection
When working on the redesign for my site (2023), I spent a fair bit of time thinking about the typeface I wanted to use. I wanted something that was:
- Clean: Crisp and easy to read
- Simple: Stays out of the way
- Elegant: Stylish, but refined
I was looking for the "black t-shirt" of typefaces. I wanted something that would be easy to read, and not distract from the content. Generally informal, but able to be used in a formal setting.
Though, sort of how the best black t-shirt is one that's fitted well for you, I did want something with a bit of uniqueness to it. I didn't want to use a typeface that's ubiquitous. My site design is pretty minimalist, so I felt like a more unique typeface will help it stand out in a subdued way that didn't get in the way of the content itself.
Considerations
The following typefaces are the main ones I considered. Originally I was looking for a variable font, but ended up opting for a more simple serif, Editorial New.
Typeface | Variable | Price | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Editorial New ![]() | 🙅 | $100 | I liked the serif feel. My site is really text heavy, and kinda wanted a typesetting that was reminiscent of physical books and newspaper. This felt like it and was pretty quickly sold. |
Inter ![]() | ✅ | $0 | Great font, love how it looks. Ultimately I wanted something more unique. |
GT Alpina ![]() | 🙅 | $240 | I liked this typeface, and was close to using it. But, ultimately the touch of "handwritten"-ness to it from the circular terminators felt like it didn't match the personality I was going for. |