Definitions Before describing ways of achieving contrasts in a design, it is vital that you understand the differences between harmony and contrast. Harmony is the blending of elements with an evenness of colour, texture, size and typeface. It is typified by the use of a single typeface, with matching borders and decorations and a carefully balanced distribution of body copy and white space. A harmonious design is restful and soothing, it makes no demands on the reader - it is complacent and unobtrusive. It is the perfect design format for books and magazines where to use contrasting elements would defeat the purpose of the information being given.
Contrast is the opposite of harmony.
To be effective the contrasts must be clearly defined, since too little definition will result in a conflict. For example, using two typefaces with many similarities will clash - the design will be neither harmonious, nor contrasting. There are seven basic relationships of contrast - size, weight, structure, form, colour, texture and direction. Each of these can be combined with one another to create a range of stimulating visual effects. Size Varying sizes of type, when combined with smaller body copy, draws the reader's eye to the beginning of aline.