deep wave vs body wave

BRAND MOOD BOARD: THE SECRET TO BUILDING A COHESIVE AND ATTRACTIVE BRAND

A brand mood board is a powerful design tool that narrates the visual story of your brand. It plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining a consistent, attractive look for your brand, making it essential for shaping your brand’s visual aesthetic.

Mood boards encompass a variety of elements, including typography, color palettes, textures, and patterns—all of which contribute to your brand’s overall vibe.

Creating a mood board is a vital step in your brand design process, as it lays the groundwork for your visual identity. It streamlines your design decisions and guides you toward achieving the cohesive and consistent brand identity you desire.

What is a mood board?

A mood board serves as the design inspiration for your brand, acting as a curated collection of imagery that captures the desired look and feel. It encompasses colors, fonts, textures, and even words that reflect the company’s personality.

Creatives and designers have long utilized mood boards to steer their creative process, initially developed to convey emotional qualities between designers and clients. Research indicates that viewing images can evoke a sense of both detachment and engagement (Grimshaw and Ravetz, 2005; Taussig, 1993), as well as combine rationality with emotionality (Belova, 2006), promoting both cognitive and emotional engagement.

In essence, mood boards bridge the gap between logical business objectives and the emotional, intangible aspects of design psychology. They provide a holistic view of what you aim to achieve through your design efforts.

Mood board vs brand board

A brand mood board differs from a traditional style guide or brand board in that it serves as an inspirational starting point for creativity rather than a strict guideline for designing your brand.

Your mood board acts as the initial foundation for crafting your brand identity. In contrast, a brand board is the finalized document showcasing your brand logos, sub-marks, icons, complete color palette, patterns, illustrations, typography, and images for visual direction.

For instance, take a look at the mood board I created for Forest Tails. While the brand style guide incorporates elements from the mood board, it also includes the logo suite, sub-marks, icons, the full color palette, and typography.

When should I build a mood board?

While many people mistakenly begin their branding journey with a mood board, it should not be the first step. Before gathering inspiration, it’s crucial to develop your brand strategy, which addresses the “why” behind how your brand should look and feel.

Once you’ve established your brand strategy, you can delve into your brand essence and start collecting visual inspiration that aligns with your desired brand identity.

After creating your brand, mood boards can serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for various creative projects within your business, such as:

  • New product launches
  • Seasonal sales campaigns
  • New courses or programs
  • Brand photoshoots
  • Podcast graphics
  • Online memberships
  • Books, eBooks, and PDFs
  • Office or studio design

You can create different mood boards for specific campaigns, programs, or products, as well as for sales pages, website design, and microsites or apps.

Mood board for brand consistency

Your mood board is a foundational step in creating a cohesive brand identity. It outlines the vision for your visual identity, helping to convey the deeper goals of your business.

While you may be familiar with color psychology and its power to evoke feelings, it’s important to recognize that fonts also have personalities that can influence our emotions and perceptions. A font can convey a sense of happiness, professionalism, or whimsy, impacting how we interpret the text.

Choosing colors, fonts, and patterns in isolation can lead to mismatches. For example, a color you love might not pair well with a font you admire, or a pattern may clash with your chosen photography style. However, by assembling these elements in a mood board, you can more easily assess whether they harmonize and enhance your brand.

Research published in the Journal of Business Research indicates that mood boards facilitate brand coordination by:

  • Setting the scene
  • Directing and aligning activities
  • Establishing a reference point

Rather than constraining creativity, mood boards encourage it by:

  • Allowing room for interpretation
  • Providing inspiration
  • Enabling self-expression and a unique style

When everyone in your organization works from the same design inspiration, it fosters a consistent approach across your brand identity, website design, packaging, and marketing materials, streamlining the branding process.

For small business owners who may be working with multiple freelancers or external suppliers, a mood board serves as a clear communication tool for design concepts.

A mood board is a powerful tool for ensuring your team stays aligned, whether you’re working with in-house designers, new staff members, or external freelancers and agencies. I’ve found that sharing brand mood boards with photographers and copywriters effectively conveys the brand’s look and feel. Sometimes, having both visual and verbal cues can make communication even clearer and more effective.

What to include on a brand mood board

While there are no strict rules for creating a brand mood board, following some useful frameworks can help guide your choices. Typically, a brand mood board includes:

  • Brand vibe words: Key descriptors that capture the essence of your brand.
  • Type inspiration: Fonts that align with your brand’s personality.
  • Logo inspiration: Visual references for logo designs.
  • Colour palette: A selection of colors that represent your brand’s aesthetic.
  • Photography: Images that evoke the desired mood and style.
  • Art: Artwork that resonates with your brand identity.
  • Quotes: Inspirational phrases that reflect your brand values.
  • Textures: Material qualities that contribute to your brand’s feel.
  • Patterns: Designs that complement your overall theme.
  • Illustrations: Visual elements that add personality.

Aim for a diverse collection of inspirations to provide a holistic sense of how your brand should be communicated, avoiding an over-reliance on any single element like photos or textures.

Choosing a colour palette for your mood board

Selecting a color palette for your mood board is one of the most vital steps in establishing a brand identity. It’s essential not only to choose colors that reflect your brand’s essence but also to select hues that will inspire and engage your ideal clients.

Color psychology plays a significant role in our daily lives, influencing how customers perceive and interact with their surroundings. People often make choices based on color, whether it’s for their homes, workplaces, vehicles, or even clothing. This impact extends to how they respond to brands.

When crafting your brand mood board, draw color inspiration from the images and elements within the board itself. Ensure that there’s sufficient contrast among the chosen colors to maintain visual clarity; you’ll need colors that work well for both backgrounds and text. A well-thought-out color palette will not only enhance your brand’s visual appeal but also resonate with your audience on an emotional level.

HOW MANY COLOURS TO CHOOSE?

The number of colors you select for your brand mood board should reflect the depth and complexity of your brand identity. To maintain consistency across all branding materials, such as logo design and website themes, it’s ideal to limit your palette. Aiming for five colors is generally a good rule of thumb.

If you’re targeting a high-end or luxury market, consider narrowing your palette even further to 2-4 main colors. This minimalist approach enhances the elegance and sophistication of your brand, making it more recognizable and cohesive across various platforms.

ACCENTS, NEUTRALS AND COMPLEMENTARY COLOURS

When selecting a color palette, begin with your ‘body’ colors, which are the primary colors that will define your brand. From there, choose an accent color to add visual interest and a neutral tone for balance (commonly, black is used in logos).

It’s essential to consider the tones of the colors you choose. Aim for colors that share similar or complementary tones, as this will create a harmonious and cohesive look for your brand. This careful selection will enhance the overall aesthetic and effectiveness of your branding materials.

Mood board for brand identity 

When creating a mood board for your brand identity, it’s essential to first consult your brand strategy to understand how your brand should look and feel. While it’s helpful to be aware of your competitors’ brands, building a unique brand that stands out relies on your distinct energy, skills, and vision.

Begin by identifying 2-3 words that describe how you want your brand to look and 3 words that capture how you want it to feel. Keep in mind that your mood board is just the starting point of your brand identity.

The fonts you select for your mood board may not be the final choices. Small text snippets can appear visually appealing but may not function well in practical applications. Therefore, view your mood board as a springboard for creativity.

You may also need to adjust color selections to better align with your imagery or enhance text readability. Don’t hesitate to experiment with shades and tints of the colors on your board to achieve the desired effect.

Brand mood board examples

The mood board below represents Ayurvedic Mentor, an online health and wellness membership developed by Dr. Sam Watts at Mind Body Medical. The goal was to craft a brand that not only reflects the ancient roots of Ayurveda but also resonates with a sense of familiarity and safety for its audience.

I aimed for a bright and welcoming aesthetic, while also embodying natural warmth. The selected colors, textures, and imagery are designed to evoke a feeling of comfort and connection to nature, inviting members to explore their health and wellness journey with ease and confidence.

The colors are vibrant, while the fonts are kept simple and minimalist to enhance readability. The imagery deliberately shifts focus away from individuals’ faces, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere. This approach allows the brand to resonate with a broader audience, inviting everyone to connect with the principles of Ayurveda and their own wellness journey.

Mood board for personal brand

When I began my career in branding and marketing, I inadvertently crafted a strong personal brand that caught the attention of the directors at the large FTSE 100 company where I worked.

My secret? Leopard print, high heels, boundless ideas, and unwavering confidence.

At that time, I was young, naïve, and bursting with enthusiasm for marketing. During the day, I focused on point-of-sale strategies for our 400+ stores, while at night, I embraced my role as a singer. The confidence I exuded on stage naturally carried over into my daily work.

Admittedly, my choices raised a few eyebrows, but they also brought some much-needed brightness to the grey boardroom, sparking conversations. Even though my 6-inch glitter heels were impractical for the countless steps I took daily, they positioned me front and center when anyone mentioned the 300-strong marketing department. I became known as “the new girl with the shoes.” Influential people remembered me, and because I excelled in my work and was eager to share my ideas, I left a positive impression.

The key to establishing a personal brand is to be distinct and consistent while considering your unique strengths and the value you offer. My style mirrored my energy, creativity, and passion, but yours may look completely different. Think of Steve Jobs, with his minimalist aesthetic of polo necks, jeans, and an unwavering commitment to perfection.

Creating a mood board is an excellent way to visualize your desired brand identity or personal style. If I were to design a personal brand mood board for my 22-year-old self, it would capture the essence of my boldness and individuality.

Journal prompts for creating a personal brand

If you want to create a mood board for your personal brand, start by defining your style inspiration. Consider the following questions to guide your thoughts:

  • How would you (or others) describe your vibe?
  • What do you want to be known for?
  • How do you want people to feel around you?
  • What impact do you want to create?
  • If you could leave everyone you meet feeling one thing, what would it be?

Creating a personal brand mood board can help you communicate a consistent message for lasting impact. Remember, personal brands, like business brands, grow, change, and evolve over time.

Here’s a mood board I made to inspire my personal brand last year. As you can see, things have changed quite a bit in the last 20 years!

conclusion

In conclusion, crafting a cohesive and beautiful brand hinges on the strategic use of a mood board. This powerful tool not only helps you visualize and articulate your brand’s identity but also serves as a guiding framework for maintaining consistency across all touchpoints. By integrating elements like color palettes, typography, textures, and imagery, a mood board encapsulates the essence of your brand and communicates its personality effectively.

Whether you’re starting a new venture or refreshing an existing brand, investing time in creating a well-thought-out mood board lays the groundwork for a compelling visual narrative. It fosters clarity and alignment among team members and collaborators, ensuring that everyone works toward a unified vision. Ultimately, a thoughtfully crafted mood board can inspire creativity, enhance decision-making, and elevate your brand’s presence in the marketplace, making it a vital component of successful brand development.

40 GORGEOUS LAYERED LONG PIXIE CUT IDEAS

Have you heard of the layered long pixie cut? Starting with the timeless classic pixie cut, it has evolved into a longer version known as the long pixie, or “Lixie.” Now, we introduce the layered long pixie cut—a fantastic blend of the classic pixie, the length of a Lixie, and the added dimension of layers. It’s unique, stylish, and offers a fresh twist. If you’re looking for a change, your hair is the perfect place to start. So why not try this hairstyle for your next cut? Keep exploring with our curated collection of 40 layered long pixie cut styles below!

PIXIE CUT WITH LONG BANGS

Opt for a pixie cut with long bangs to reduce bulk and highlight your best features. A close crop around the sides and nape of the neck removes excess weight, making styling effortless. Adding a side part to an asymmetrical pixie cut creates extra volume in the fringe.

STRAIGHT LONG PIXIE WITH WISPY LAYERS

A straight long pixie cut with wispy layers is an ideal Lixie for women looking to add movement to straight hair. Blended layers create a uniform, rounded shape at the back. For a wispy finish, ask your stylist to texturize the edges and sideburns.

LONG LAYERED PIXIE FOR THIN HAIR

Choose a long layered pixie hairstyle for thin hair to add movement and create a fuller look. This style typically falls at or below the ears, with a fringe that grazes the jawline. Consult your stylist to see if a platinum blonde shade would suit your skin tone.

PIXIE WITH STACKED LAYERS FOR THICK HAIR

If you’ve been hesitant to go short because of your thick hair, worry no more! A pixie cut with stacked layers is the perfect solution. This stylish crop not only simplifies your styling routine but also helps manage the weight of your hair. A layered long pixie is especially great for reducing bulk. For the best results, blow-dry with Kevin Murphy’s Ever.Smooth and finish with Bedroom.Hair dry texturizer.

TEXTURED PIXIE CUT WITH CHOPPY LAYERS

For fine hair that needs a volume boost, try a textured pixie cut with choppy layers. Angled, cheek-skimming layers on a long choppy pixie frame your face beautifully and accentuate your cheekbones. To enhance the look, consider a rich hazelnut color with a few baby lights to warm your complexion and showcase the texture.

SHAGGY PIXIE CUT WITH CURTAIN BANGS

A shaggy pixie cut with curtain bangs is a stylish, easy-to-maintain short hairstyle that provides plenty of movement and suits straight, wavy, and curly textures. For a complete, low-maintenance look, add some soft, face-framing balayage to your long pixie cut for a wash-and-wear layered style.

WAVY PIXIE HAIR WITH LAYERS

For those with textured tresses, a wavy pixie cut with layers can be a fantastic choice. Pixies are incredibly versatile, flattering women of all ages and face shapes. Naturally wavy hair can be styled by letting it air dry with sea salt spray or enhanced with some loose waves created by a curling iron.

ANGLED PIXIE WITH A SIDE PART

If you’re considering a bold transformation, an angled pixie with a side part is worth considering. Short layered pixies offer sheer perfection, with soft, tousled layers and an asymmetrical side part that accentuate cheekbones and highlight your eyes. For a finishing touch, pair this chic style with a buttery shade of platinum blonde hair dye.

PIXIE WITH RAZORED CROWN LAYERS

If you have thin hair and want to add some volume, consider a pixie cut with razored crown layers. Layered long pixies for fine hair look incredibly chic with wispy sideburns and a short, swoopy fringe. This stylish razored crop is especially flattering for women over 50.

SIDE-SWEPT PIXIE CUT WITH LAYERS

Opt for a side-swept long pixie cut with layers for a look that’s both edgy and chic. This versatile haircut suits women of all ages and adds a touch of sophistication. Enhance your layered pixie with a stunning shade of champagne blonde.

TAPERED PIXIE CUT FOR FINE HAIR

A tapered pixie cut for fine hair is a lively layered style that revitalizes limp tresses. By trimming the back very close and leaving textured length around the sides and top, this creative long pixie cut adds volume and interest. For optimal lift, apply Living Proof Full Root Lift to damp hair and blow dry.

LAYERED PIXIE WITH HEAVY BANGS

Consider a layered pixie with heavy bangs for a chic, low-maintenance style. Long pixie hairstyles with layers and a full fringe can balance broad heart-shaped faces and shorten oval face shapes. Regular trims will help maintain the shape of your pixie and keep it looking fresh.

LAYERED PIXIE BOB

If you’re seeking a short cut with versatile styling options, try a layered pixie bob. This hairstyle, which falls between the ear and neck, is a perfect transitional choice if you’re not ready for a super short crop. Discuss with your stylist about adding icy beige highlights to make your new look truly stand out!

EXTRA LONG BLONDE PIXIE WITH A SIDE BANG

Opt for an extra long blonde pixie with a side bang for a classy, effortless look. To style, use a root lift product like Living Proof Full Root Lift on wet hair, or Puff.ME Powder on dry hair for added lift and separation. When blow-drying, avoid drying your hair flat against your scalp. Instead, dry in the opposite direction with a round brush, then flip your hair once it’s dry to achieve gorgeous volume.

FEATHERED PIXIE CUT WITH LAYERS

A feathered pixie cut with layers is incredibly chic and offers a soft, feminine style. It’s perfect for middle-aged professionals and older women. Feathered layers enhance medium wavy textures and are easy to maintain. For a quick, effortless look, simply wash and go, or add a bit of volume spray at the roots before a quick blow-dry to boost body.

BRUNETTE PIXIE BOB WITH LAYERS

A brunette pixie bob with layers is a stunning medium-to-short haircut that beautifully frames and accentuates the face. Layering a pixie bob adds body and movement, making the haircut easier to style. While a pixie bob does require daily styling to maintain its intentional look, the process is typically quick and straightforward.

BRUNETTE PIXIE BOB WITH LAYERS

A brunette pixie bob with layers is a stunning medium-to-short haircut that highlights and frames the face. Layering adds body and movement, making the style easier to manage. While a pixie bob does need daily styling to maintain its polished look, the process is usually quick and simple.

WHITE LONG PIXIE WITH SHORT LAYERS

Embrace natural beauty with a white long pixie featuring short layers. Adding short layers is an excellent way to create body and movement right at the crown. If your hair feels bulky at the nape or crown, removing excess weight can help it feel lighter and sit better, making styling easier.

LONG COPPER PIXIE WITH SIDEBURNS

The long copper pixie with sideburns is an ideal autumn hairstyle. It elegantly contours to the head shape, adding roundness at the crown and occipital area while accentuating the cheekbones with pointy, slightly feathered sideburns. To maintain the vibrancy of the copper color at home, consider using direct dye masks like Wella’s Colour Fresh Mask.

FEMININE GREY LIXIE WITH LAYERS

Try a feminine grey lixie with layers for a beautifully voluminous look. Ideal for adding height and reducing bulk in aging hair, a lixie is flattering on anyone. Layers provide a stylish, moveable look while keeping the overall appearance polished.

SILVER LIXIE FOR OLDER WOMEN

Hairstyles for older women have evolved significantly, offering a wide range of options. Whether you opt for professional texturizing for easy wear or embrace your natural silver or gray texture, a lixie is a versatile choice for a fresh look. This haircut adapts well to both smooth and curly textures, providing a stylish transition to a new you.

LIXIE BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS AND DARK ROOTS

Being in between styles can look fantastic, especially with a versatile lixie. A long pixie cut works wonderfully for showcasing blonde highlights with darker roots, offering a stylish and adaptable short hairstyle.

CUTE LIGHT BROWN PIXIE WITH LAYERS

Opt for a charming light brown pixie with textured layers. To achieve this look, request a long, swooped bang and uniform layers. For added dimension, consider highlights with lowlights to accentuate the layers. This style is ideal for women seeking a trendy, low-maintenance haircut.

RAZOR CUT LONG SHAGGY PIXIE

Consider a razor-cut long shaggy pixie for a lightweight, textured look. If you prefer a highly piecey style, a razor will create soft, fringed layers with plenty of texture. Personally, I love shags for their low-maintenance yet incredibly stylish appeal.

CHAMPAGNE BLONDE FEATHERY LIXIE CUT

Before opting for champagne blonde, consider your current hair color, budget, and maintenance needs. If your hair has a lot of color history, a feathery lixie cut can help streamline the process by removing bulk and allowing you to achieve your desired color more quickly.

YUMMY CHOCOLATE PIXIE

To soften a squared jawline, consider a long textured pixie. The longer sides frame your face and add curvature, which helps to soften your features. If you have thick hair, be sure to include extra texturizing throughout the cut to create shape and movement.

SIDE-SWEPT LIXIE WITH LONGER BANGS

If you want a shorter style while keeping some length, consider a side-swept lixie with longer bangs. Ask your stylist to use texturizing shears to add volume and texture. For extra volume when styling, simply backcomb the top a bit, and you’ll be set for the day.

SOFT FEATHERY LAYERS

Nothing exudes elegance like soft, feathery layers. For an easy-going yet sophisticated look, a long layered pixie is a fantastic choice. Your stylist will shape the layers to complement your head’s contours, using texturizing shears or a razor to achieve a soft, refined finish. To style, use volumizing mousse and a small to medium-sized round brush to add volume and definition.

CHIC PIXIE CUT WITH LIVED-IN LAYERS

Add a modern twist to your pixie cut for a chic and stylish look. Choose shorter layers at the crown to create a lived-in feel, and opt for wispy bangs to add softness. Finish with a dry texturizing product to achieve a natural, voluminous effect.

PERFECTLY LAYERED AND TAPERED LONG PIXIE CUT

Try a short, wispy stacked shag cut to create an eye-catching look that suits any face shape! This versatile hairstyle works beautifully with straight, wavy, or curly hair. To achieve this chic style, ask your stylist for tapering along the sides and subtle layering towards the back. es all the difference!

HAND-PAINTED BALAYAGE

Hand-painted balayage offers a natural, lived-in blonde effect, even on darker hair bases. However, if you’re aiming for a very light ashy blonde, the foilayage technique is your best option. These techniques produce different results, so it’s important not to confuse them. If you’re unsure, bring some reference photos to your colorist to ensure you get the desired outcome.

DARK BROWN LAYERED LIXIE

A dark brown layered pixie cut is a fantastic way to try something new and trendy. However, you’ll need a skilled hairstylist to create the short layers with precision. This cut is easy to style, versatile, and adds body and movement to your look. Be sure to communicate clearly with your stylist about the type of layers you want, and bring reference photos to ensure you both have a clear vision of the final result.

SOFT ASH BROWN LAYERED LIXIE

Opt for a soft layered ash brown lixie for a look that’s both soft and feminine. A disconnected long pixie works especially well for thick hair, reducing styling time due to the lighter volume. Softly textured layers provide movement and separation. To achieve an ethereal effect, use a half-inch curling wand and hair wax to define and separate the strands.

EDGY AND DIMENSIONAL LAYERED PIXIE

If you’re looking to refresh your short hair, consider a pixie cut with edgy layers and dimensional color. Request plenty of texture, especially if you have wavy hair, to enhance its sexy movement. Keep in mind that this style requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

VISIBLE LAYERS ON A LIXIE CUT

For older women with thick brown hair, incorporating visible layers into a lixie cut can create a youthful appearance. Ask your stylist to add layers that reduce weight, making the hair more manageable while adding volume. It’s important to balance the layers and length to prevent the hair from looking too thin or short. To style, use a blow-dryer and a large round brush to achieve volume and shape. For extra body and texture, consider using mousse or a volumizing spray.

COPPER LIXIE WITH LAYERS

To add volume to fine hair, consider a longer pixie style. This longer-frame cut works well for elongated face shapes and convex profiles. Choose a side part for added softness, and ask your stylist to layer the back and crown of your head strategically. This technique allows you to style with texture paste or use a round brush for a fuller appearance.

LAYERED LIXIE FOR VERY DARK HAIR

A layered pixie cut is perfect for women with dark, short, deep-toned hair seeking a fresh, stylish update. This haircut adds movement and texture to dark locks, creating a multi-dimensional effect. The layers enhance volume and shape while keeping the hair short, making it ideal for very dark hair as they enrich the color. For styling, apply a small amount of volumizing mousse to damp hair, then use your fingers to tousle and scrunch for added texture.

DARK ASH BROWN LAYERED LIXIE CUT

Pixie cuts remain popular for their easy maintenance, requiring minimal care at home. However, it’s important to schedule your next cut promptly, as even slight growth can become bothersome. For a softer appearance, keep a bit more length around the face to maintain a feminine and airy look. As a professional tip, avoid heavy, waxy products, as they can weigh the hair down.

ICONIC LONG PIXIE CUT

Choose a long pixie cut for a modern and effortless hairstyle. It’s important to discuss your face shape with your hairstylist, as this cut may not suit round faces as well. Opt for shaggy, razor-cut layers to achieve a textured look with natural movement. Blow dry with a bit of wax and style using your hands for the best results. Remember to leave a longer section in the front to enhance the cut and style it elegantly to the side.

BRUNETTE LIXIE WITH FEATHERED LAYERS

For your next cut, consider a brunette lixie with feathered layers. If your short hair feels too thick, ask your stylist to layer and thin it out. To style a long pixie cut, use a blow dryer and round brush, directing the hair away from your face so that the front layers fall gracefully along your hairline.

CHIC LIXIE WITH VISIBLE LAYERS AND TONES

If you want to stay stylish while maintaining your personal touch, opt for a chic pixie cut with visible layers and customizable tones. This haircut allows you to tailor the tones to your preference and keeps the hair slightly longer, giving you more styling options each day.

CONCLUSION

The long pixie cut is a versatile and stylish option that can suit a variety of face shapes and hair textures. With the addition of layers, this cut can be even more dynamic and expressive. Whether you prefer a classic look or something more edgy, there’s a layered long pixie cut out there for you. By considering factors like your face shape, hair texture, and personal style, you can find the perfect layered long pixie cut to enhance your beauty and confidence.