Sans Contrasted Yaba 18 is a regular weight, normal width, very high contrast, italic, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Tabac Glam' by Suitcase Type Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, magazines, branding, posters, packaging, fashion, editorial, luxury, dramatic, refined, elegance, impact, premium feel, editorial voice, calligraphic, didone-like, hairline, sheared, sharp.
This typeface presents a steeply slanted, high-contrast structure with razor-thin hairlines and broad, swelling main strokes. Curves are smooth and taut, with crisp terminals and a generally clean, serifless silhouette that still reads as calligraphic due to the strong thick–thin modulation. Capitals feel tall and stately, while the lowercase shows a slightly rounded, flowing rhythm; counters are relatively open, but the hairlines and joins stay delicate. Figures follow the same contrasty logic, with elegant curves and fine connecting strokes that emphasize a polished, display-oriented texture.
Best suited to display sizes such as magazine titles, fashion and lifestyle editorial, premium brand marks, campaign headlines, and elegant packaging. It can also work for short pull quotes or introductory text where the contrast and slant are given room to breathe, but it will be most comfortable when not forced into dense, small-size settings.
The overall tone is sophisticated and fashion-forward, pairing elegance with a bit of theatrical sharpness. Its glossy contrast and slanted motion suggest luxury branding and editorial headlines, where refinement and drama are desirable. The texture feels poised and upscale rather than casual or utilitarian.
The design appears intended to deliver a contemporary, high-end italic voice with striking contrast and a clean outline, balancing classic elegance with a modern, pared-back finish. It prioritizes visual impact and refinement, aiming for a distinctive headline texture rather than neutral text performance.
In continuous text the hairlines create a shimmering vertical rhythm, and the strong slant gives words a sense of forward momentum. The design leans on clean, minimal finishing—avoiding heavy ornament—so the contrast and geometry carry most of the personality.