This vinyl album design for Midnight Sun by Zara Larsson captures the vibrant, carefree essence of her music and aesthetic through a nostalgic yet refreshing Y2K-inspired visual direction. The concept draws heavily from the artist’s energetic performances and colorful stage wardrobe, translating that sense of playfulness and summer euphoria into a cohesive, graphic representation of sound and mood. The design centers on a summery poolside theme, with the soft blue water texture serving as both a serene backdrop and a metaphor for fluidity, rhythm, and emotional depth—qualities that define the album’s tone.
ILLUSTRATIONS
Around the edges, bold and whimsical illustrations of suns, stars, cherries, and tropical flora create a visual frame that embodies the cluttered yet harmonious aesthetic reminiscent of early 2000s pop culture. The color palette—a fusion of candy pinks, sunshine yellows, and aqua blues—evokes warmth, joy, and a touch of nostalgia while maintaining a sleek, modern polish. The typography choice reinforces the Y2K influence with a rounded, bubbly type treatment that feels retro but contemporary, complementing the carefree and empowering spirit of Larsson’s music.
MOODBOARD
This moodboard for Midnight Sun captures a nostalgic early 2000s beach aesthetic, blending playful femininity with dreamy, tropical energy. The bright pastel colors, airbrushed graphics, and summer motifs like palm trees and hibiscus flowers evoke carefree youth and sun-soaked confidence. It reflects a balance between retro glam and modern fantasy, creating a vibrant, summery atmosphere full of personality and bold self-expression.
TYPOGRAPHY
The typography for Midnight Sun features a bold, retro-inspired style that echoes early 2000s graphic trends. With its playful curves, layered outlines, and gradient effects, it gives off a nostalgic yet energetic vibe. The font choice complements the dreamy, beachy theme—feeling both fun and slightly futuristic—while enhancing the overall Y2K aesthetic of the project.
RESEARCH
The research phase of Midnight Sun focused on exploring Y2K aesthetics through visual references, color studies, and cultural imagery from early-2000s media. I experimented with different color palettes inspired by neon nightlife, digital nostalgia, and soft gradients to capture the era’s dreamy yet energetic feel. Listening to the album throughout the process helped build the project’s emotional direction, allowing the visuals to reflect the mood, tone, and atmosphere of the music.