Creating luxury packaging requires an intentional design that emphasizes a product and brand that exudes sophistication, exclusivity, or grandeur. This packaging should not only amplify the perceived value of the product inside but also create an appeal that attracts customers and makes them feel special or excited to interact with the product. Despite the name, luxury packaging doesn’t necessarily have to rely on expensive materials; cost-effective options like custom paperboard folding cartons can also be used to craft premium packaging, especially when paired with thoughtful, high-end packaging design.
Why Use Paperboard In Luxury Packaging Design?
The packaging material brands choose plays a major role in shaping a consumer’s perception of a product. Paperboard might not seem like a luxury packaging material. Glass, metal, leather, and wood are often seen as top choices for luxury brands, as these materials feel more refined and aesthetic. However, paperboard is actually surging in the luxury packaging market. This segment is projected to grow more than 5% annually, surpassing $9 billion by 2032. Though sustainability initiatives are the main factor behind this increase, there are many other reasons to consider paperboard for premium packaging. Paperboard is available in a wide variety of structural design options, printing capabilities, and design opportunities, allowing for full customization to match any brand’s distinct identity. It’s also highly durable and lightweight.
How to Create Luxury Packaging Design With Paperboard
To elevate a product with premium packaging, brands must focus on the elements that transform simple materials into a true work of art appreciated by customers. Careful consideration, strong brand identity, and strategic uses of color, typography, and other decorative touches help produce packaging that compels target customers to buy.
Use High-Quality Paperboard
Material quality is paramount in luxury packaging. Premium paperboard options provide a sturdy, printable base. Solid bleached sulfate (SBS) is one of the best types of paperboard available. Though a little more expensive than other substrates, SBS is made from chemically bleached wood pulp for a smooth, white surface ideal for printing and graphics that pop.
Consider Structural Design
Paperboard is available in various folding carton styles to protect and showcase luxury products. Some options for premium packaging include:
Straight tuck
This box style features top and bottom closure flaps attached on the same side for easy assembly. The design also includes slit locks to securely hold light to medium-weight products.
Reverse tuck
Nearly identical to straight tucks, reverse tuck folding cartons feature top closures attached to the back of the box while bottom closures are fixed to the front. This design ensures minimal internal scraps.
Auto bottom
Heavier luxury products should consider an auto bottom design, as it has a sturdy, pre-glued bottom that locks into place. Auto bottoms are great for products that require a top-load application and need extra stability.
Embrace Minimalist Design
Minimalism is a defining trend in luxury packaging design, and it will only become more popular in 2025. This aesthetic emphasizes clean lines and purposeful simplicity, focusing on the most essential elements. By stripping away unnecessary embellishments, minimalist packaging draws attention to the quality of the materials and allows a brand’s message or product traits to take center stage. The absence of clutter prevents the packaging from overwhelming consumers, instead creating an elegant, refined look.
Use Curated Colors
Color psychology impacts a brand’s image and the packaging’s perception. The right color combination elicits a sense of opulence. Black, gold, silver, white, and rich jewel tones like deep reds, blues, purples, and greens are effective at creating a high-end experience. Choosing between monochromatic or bold colors also plays a role. Monochromatic schemes use varying shades of the same color to produce a harmonious, cohesive aesthetic. High-contract color combinations, on the other hand, demand attention and convey ideals like strength or prestige.
Add Tailored Typography
Fonts play an equally important part in communicating luxury. Serif fonts are often used for their classic, timeless appeal, making them a nice choice for brands that aim to convey heritage or sophistication in their packaging. Sans serif fonts are more modern and minimalist, so they are ideal for high-end brands seeking a trendy, contemporary look. Script fonts have an elegant handwritten appearance that exudes authenticity and style. Custom typography can further elevate packaging by creating a unique identity for the brand, adding an element of exclusivity.
Include Foil Stamped Accents
Foil stamping, also called hot stamping, sees metallic foil applied to packaging surfaces using heat and pressure to impart an eye-catching effect. This technique can be used in a variety of colors and finishes. It works exceptionally well in minimalist and luxury designs because it adds visual interest without overwhelming the overall appearance. Logos, brand names, or decorative elements can all benefit from the sense of intrigue and increased attention. This process can be combined with embossing or debossing, further enhancing the packaging’s texture and tactile experience.