Disconcerting Typefaces: A List of Fonts That Leave an Unpleasant Impression

In the realm of digital design, fonts play a crucial role in shaping a brand's identity. On August 6th, 2025, the author delved into this very topic, exploring the significant impact fonts can have on a brand's image.

Take, for instance, the infamous Grunge fonts, a staple on dafont.com, often associated with school film club posters for horror sequels. They may evoke a certain nostalgia, but their use in brand identity could suggest a shared Facebook account with a spouse and a cat named Mr. Tibbles.

On the other hand, Ubuntu, while perceived as coming pre-installed on a Linux system, lacks brand trust. It's often associated with a passive-aggressive project manager with an anime mousemat. If building a brand that requires trust, it's essential to use fonts that convey trustworthiness.

Lobster, a vintage font with a "Brooklyn" feel, is a divisive choice. It's been compared to an Army surplus shop logo made in Microsoft Paint, an Etsy throw-up, and even a Call of Duty expansion pack. Fonts like Lobster can make a first impression before a brand's message is read, impacting trust and brand image.

Fonts with names like "BloodStab Italic" or "Sk8orDie.ttf" are designed to resemble the work of a 14-year-old Slipknot fan. They may be indicative of a brand that lacks professionalism. Similarly, fonts with fake blood, cracked letters, or "spraypaint effects" can ruin a brand's image.

Stencil fonts are best advised to sit this one out, unless branding camo tents or designing warning labels for landmines. FS Kitty, described as smelling like impulse-buy body spray from Claire's, gives off a glitter glue, year 8 girlband, and vaguely threatening vibe.

The three most criticized fonts in the KOTA-Studio Slack were Avant Garde, Bevel Hands, and Bunk; these can be found on MyFonts. Ryan Gosling's SNL meltdown over Avatar using Papyrus is a real-life example of font choices affecting brand image.

In the digital agency world, KOTA, based in Clerkenwell London, specializes in Creative Web Design, Web Development, Branding, and Digital Marketing. They offer tools like The Brand Pulse Audit, which can help assess a brand's strengths and areas for improvement in minutes.

In conclusion, while fonts can convey tone, trust, emotion, and make a first impression, it's crucial to choose them wisely. After all, a font's choice can either elevate a brand or lead to a full-body cringe.