Retro Revival: Using Bold Typography & Vintage Styles in Your Decals

There’s something magnetic about throwback design. It’s bold, a little kitschy, and surprisingly timeless. And if you’re creating custom decals, it’s one of the easiest ways to make your design pop. Whether you’re all about groovy fonts or 80s neons, retro is the vibe, and it’s not going anywhere.

Custom decals have always been a go-to for self-expression and branding. But lately? The design world has been leaning hard into nostalgia, and it looks good. Think vintage fonts, playful shapes, and colors pulled straight from your parents’ basement. It’s the perfect storm of eye-catching and sentimental.

Why Retro Typography Feels So Familiar (and Fun)

The magic of retro fonts is that they’re loud on purpose. These aren't your average sleek sans-serifs. We're talking about bubble letters, bold slabs, funky disco scripts, fonts that do the most and make no apologies.

They’re easy to read from far away and full of personality, which makes them ideal for things like car decals, laptop stickers, or business signage. Even if someone doesn't know why it feels nostalgic, it does.

Not sure where to start? Think Cooper Black, Blenny, or anything that looks like it belongs in a 1984 video game. You can upload your fav retro font right into our custom vinyl decal builder and get creative.

Color Combos That Feel Like a Time Warp

Retro design thrives on color—but it’s not just about being loud. It’s about choosing combos that tell a story. You want people to feel something when they see it.

Here are a few tried-and-true palettes to start with:

• Burnt orange, rust red, and mustard yellow (hello, 70s!)
• Soft blue, rose pink, and faded mint for a dreamy pastel vibe
• Bright green, electric blue, and hot pink if you're channeling that 80s arcade energy

These color choices work beautifully across all decal types, especially window decals, branding decals, and anything meant to grab attention.

Design Tips That Make A Difference 

Once you’ve got your font and color scheme, you’ll want to bring the layout together in a way that feels true to the retro aesthetic. Here are a few quick pointers:

• Use bold shapes like rainbows, checkerboards, or stars as a backdrop
• Layer faded textures or grain for that “worn-in” vintage look
• Keep your copy short and snappy—retro design thrives on impact

If you need help, browse our custom decals or wall decals to see what others are doing with the style. 

Everyday Uses for Retro Decals

Not sure where to put your design once it's ready? Honestly, retro decals work pretty much anywhere. They’re fun, they start conversations, and they make whatever surface they touch a little more interesting.

A few fun ideas:

• Add flair to your water bottle or laptop case
• Personalize your packaging or small business materials
• Decorate your mirror, dorm wall, or car window
• Use them as giveaways for your next pop-up or brand event

When in doubt, go big. The louder the font, the better the throwback

FAQs: Retro Design & Custom Decals

Can I use my own retro design?

Yep. Upload it directly in our decal builder, choose your specs, and we’ll handle the rest.

What fonts scream retro?

Think bold serifs like Cooper Black, bubbly letters, and funky disco styles. They’re expressive, readable, and full of charm.

What if I want a custom size?

You’re in luck. All of our decals can be tailored to your size, shape, and finish. Just select your specs at checkout.