Retro Effects

I finally got around to trying to create the various retro effects I've been seeing everywhere in the design world for a long time. The hardest part is selecting which typefaces to use and what kind of details you want to use that might echo a vintage feeling. The rest is adding gradients, noise, and some carefully placed drop shadows (both inner and outer). Check out my results!

My first attempt: A little feminine.

Second attempt: I didn't spend much time on this one. It's a little more "surfer," I guess.

Third attempt: Cranky "old man" browns and grays with gold embossing! There's a lot going on here, but I think it's my favorite. I even tried the little upturned edge (which could definitely be better, but for a first try, I think I did okay!).

I also made a retro-inspired desktop wallpaper for one of my biffles (yes, bffl phonetically) featuring her name, so if you'd like one, too, write a comment with your favorite colors and whether you have a widescreen (16:9) or standard (4:3) monitor!

Feel free to use any of these icons above, but please make sure to link back!

*swoon*
Paige