The Challenge

To create a distinctive cover for a deeply personal memoir exploring identity, transition, love and self-expression. The design needed to communicate Philippa’s vibrant personality and transformative journey while feeling contemporary, confident and emotionally uplifting.

The Solution

I developed a bold, expressive visual identity built around a vivid red and pink colour palette, oversized typography and playful nail-polish imagery. The nail polish acts as a visual metaphor for femininity, self-expression and transformation, while the hand-painted title adds a personal, human quality that reflects Philippa’s story.

The layered typography creates energy and movement, helping the cover feel unapologetic, joyful and instantly recognisable, while maintaining clear hierarchy and readability.

The Result

The final cover is vibrant, confident and memorable, successfully capturing the spirit of Philippa’s memoir and its themes of identity, courage and authenticity. The striking colour palette and distinctive typography give the book strong visual impact both on the shelf and at thumbnail size, helping it stand out within the memoir and non-fiction market.