Serif Normal Esso 2 is a regular weight, wide, very high contrast, italic, normal x-height font.
Keywords: headlines, editorial, fashion, invitations, branding, elegant, refined, literary, luxury tone, display elegance, editorial emphasis, stylish italics, classic refinement, didone-like, hairline serifs, calligraphic stress, swashy, crisp.
A high-contrast italic serif with sharp, hairline terminals and small wedge-like serifs. The letterforms show a pronounced rightward slant and a strongly calligraphic axis, with thick verticals and extremely thin connecting strokes that create a bright, sparkling texture. Counters are relatively open and the overall set feels generously spaced, while capitals present a sleek, slightly narrow silhouette with long, clean serifs. Lowercase includes lively entry and exit strokes and occasional swash-like terminals (notably in forms like j, y, z), giving the design an animated rhythm without becoming script-like.
Well suited to editorial headlines, pull quotes, and display typography where an elegant italic voice is desired. It also fits fashion and beauty branding, event materials, invitations, and premium packaging, especially for short lines of text where the sharp contrast and refined details can be appreciated.
The tone is polished and luxurious, with a classic, magazine-ready sophistication. Its sharp contrast and graceful italics suggest formality and a sense of ceremony, while the subtle swashiness adds flair suited to expressive typography.
The font appears designed to deliver a classic high-fashion italic with dramatic contrast and crisp serif detailing, aimed at creating a sophisticated display texture. Its animated terminals and fluid joins suggest an intention to balance traditional italic forms with a touch of expressive flourish for modern editorial use.
Numerals echo the same contrast and italic momentum, with curved figures featuring delicate hairline joins and occasional ball-like terminals. The design reads best when allowed some size and breathing room, where the thin strokes remain visible and the contrast can do the heavy lifting.