Brochure design from the 1950s is so dramatic – the fonts, the typefaces, the images. They make you think you are really going somewhere special – something a lot of brochures of today could stand to learn from! This is a highlight of a Flickr collection from newhousedesign.

When going over the brochures below, you’ll notice that most of these samples are practically dummy-proof. The readers read all the basic things they would want to know like information on discounts and specials and the features of each product, place or service – all simplified into a few words so as not to populate the first page and take away attention from deliberately stimulating and appealing images. In some of these examples you will also notice that as early in the 50s, marketing people already knew the power of color and really used it on their promotional materials to get extra attention.

Notice that fun font choices and benefits (namely air-conditioning!) are highlighted in these brochures. Goes to show you that some marketing principles are around for good reason – they’ve worked for over 50 years! You’ll also notice that many of these were produced in two colors on a non-white paper stock. That’s a great way to get the most out of your money when you don’t have a huge brochure budget.