How to Design a Label that Appeals to Your Target Market
In stores, products are often arranged according to their use.
For example, all the frontals are in a section, and closures are in another section.
Think of yourself as a customer walking down an aisle filled with products.
You have to purchase just one. Some labels instantly grab your attention, making you want to pick them up. Others? You barely notice them.
They might also be great, but they did not catch your attention.
This is the power of good label design.
If you're designing a label for your brand, you need to think beyond just colors and fonts.
There is more to it than that. Instead, you have to change your approach to be people-centric.
Who do you consider your target audience, AKA the people who will actually buy your product?
What do they like? What catches their eye? What makes them trust your Hair brand?
Keep reading to learn how to create a label that connects with your target market.
Know Your Audience Like a Close Friend
Before you even think about colors and your Brand logo, you need to understand who your ideal customers are.
Are they young and older? Give them an age gap.
What is their normal day-to-day life? What things do they like? Create a full on customer persona for your target audience.
Give her a name, and imagine her whole life until she comes in contact with your product. Be as detailed as you want.
Chances are, this person exists somewhere. So, do not worry about doing too much.
For example, if you're selling organic skincare, your buyers probably care about clean ingredients and sustainability. A sleek, minimalist design with earthy tones might appeal to them.
But if you're selling Hair wigs, your audience might love smooth, feminine colors with a design that screams excitement.
The key is to design with them in mind, not just what looks good to you.
Bring in The Colors
Color is a language.
It speaks to emotions and creates an instant impression.
Ever noticed how luxury brands love black and gold? Or how natural products often use greens and browns?
That's because colors tell a story before words even come into play.
- Soft pastels feel gentle and comforting—great for beauty and self-care products.
- Bright, bold colors give off energy and excitement, perfect for fitness or youth-focused brands.
- Neutrals and earth tones feel natural and organic—ideal for eco-friendly or health-conscious brands.
Think about the emotions you want your product to spark in your customers.
A soft pink might say "gentle and nurturing," while a deep red might say "powerful and bold."
Choose wisely because your Brand colors choices can make or break the connection with your audience.
Focus on Fonts and Readability
Fonts can be tricky.
They seem like a small detail, but they can change the entire feel of your label. A fancy script might look elegant, but if it's hard to read, it could turn people away.
On the other hand, simple and modern fonts can look clean but might feel too plain for a high-end brand.
The best approach? Find a balance in your Brand Fonts.
Your brand name should be instantly recognizable, and the important details—like product type or key ingredients—should be easy to read at a glance.
If your label has a lot of text, avoid using too many different fonts.
Stick to one or two that complement each other.
A good rule of thumb is a bold font for headlines and a simple one for details.
Put in a Strong Message
Words have weight.
The text on your label should speak directly to your audience in a way that feels natural and relatable.
Think about what matters most to your customers.
If they're looking for organic, cruelty-free beauty products, your label should highlight those values.
If they want fast-acting, results-driven skincare, focus on the benefits.
Instead of just stating what your product is, tell them why it's special. Compare these two descriptions:
- "Savannah Wig – 2x6 wig"
- "Demi Wylie HD Wig – 2x6 Closure Pop On Wig "
Which one sounds more appealing?
The second one paints a picture. It tells the customer what the product does for them.
That's the kind of messaging that makes a label work.
Add Great Visuals
People process images faster than text.
The visuals on your label should reinforce your message without overwhelming the design.
If your product is all about nature, then try soft, natural imagery like leaves, water, or botanical elements. But remember, less is more.
A cluttered label can feel chaotic and unprofessional.
Give your design some breathing room so that every element has a purpose.
Shape and Material as The Finishing Touch
Sometimes, the way a label feels in someone's hand can make a huge difference.
Glossy finishes can make colors pop, and matte finishes feel soft.
Textured labels can create a sense of uniqueness that makes people want to touch and examine your product.
Also, don't forget about shape.
If everyone else is using standard rectangular labels, a unique shape, like a circular or die-cut design, can help your product stand out.
Testing Before You Finalize
Before you print hundreds (or thousands) of labels, test them out. Show them to real people in your target market.
See what catches their eye and ask for honest feedback.
Sometimes, what you think will work might not actually connect the way you expected.
If possible, place your sample label next to competitors' products.
Does it stand out? Does it look professional? Would you pick it up if you were shopping?
Final Thoughts
When you design your brand, always ask yourself: Would my ideal customer love this?
If the answer is yes, you're on the right track.
If not, tweak it until it feels just right. At the end of the day, the best labels aren't just designs.
They are experiences. And when you create something that truly speaks to your audience, you're building a Strong Brand that people will remember.
