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really good packagINg eXplaINed
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pr o d u c t Selfridges
de s I g N F I r m Lewis Moberly
lo c at Io N London, England
cl I e N t Selfridges & Co
B e
This is just a little sneaky preview of a huge range that this
design covers within Selfridges and, for such an enormous
task, this design is pure class. The unusual color choice
stands out a mile from the branded competition, and the
considered, restrained type and luxury fi nishes all deliver a
seriously premium product line. I particularly love the gothic
S die cut; it makes the design iconic, strong, and modern,
yet still exudes gravitas.
m k
Out of the context of this notable retail establishment, it is
diffi cult to truly appreciate the value of design for this line of
products. Selfridges says “fashion” and this line beautifully
expresses that dictum. Each packaging refl ects attention to
detail. The elaborate gathered fabric, holly-decorated cover,
hinged book box, bottleneck collar, die-cut over-wrap, the
contrast of soft, matte textures with foil stamping, and the
die-cut S are all symbols of distinction.
r W
Just look at the combination of colors and textures. Check
out the details of the crimped fabric and the box pull. Lush.
And while its overall impression is just a little bit cold and
perhaps overtly sophisticated (if not snobbish), I’d still be
proud to bring this entire line of products to Christmas
dinner. Although my family might consider the packaging
too nice to open!
B e
The understated, well-executed idea in the logo itself—
effortlessly hijacking a street sign—still plays true to the
traditions of beer branding. The simplicity of the color
palette supports the rustic, homegrown attitude, but the
simplicity of the type keeps it modern. It’s unfussy, quaint,
and evokes nostalgia without dwelling too heavily on it.
r W
I would love to have seen the brief on this project to
discover the signifi cance of the delivery peddler’s wagon.
Nevertheless, great design tells a story, and this street-sign
label tells all: Local, hand-brewed, and custom-delivered
only to places within biking distance of the brewery. If, in
fact, this is the brand’s authentic story, this design is an apt
visual testament to it.
s W
This will become a classic—that is, if the product lives up
to the package. This is true to the beer category but takes
it to a more refi ned and elegant place. The typography is
impeccable, and the quaint illustration adds a bit of whimsy.
I wonder if the designers tried something besides the oval
label shape? Although it fi ts comfortably in the category—
too comfortably—it could be mistaken for a competitor.
pr o d u c t St. Urbain Rousse
de s I g N F I r m Nolin Branding & Design
lo c at I o N Montreal, Canada
cl I e N t Labatt Breweries Inc.
(Ray) Text
Job: 05-11966 Title: RP-Really Good Packaging Explained
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