In the previous century, brands, writers, film producers, artists and celebrities knew about the importance of their visual branding, before this even officially became a thing. Here are some examples of elegant, iconic and playful branded stationery that belongs to many brands that you would have heard of, along with some plucky and obscure individuals who found fame a long time ago. Found on a delightful Tumblr blog called Letterheady.
Letterhead used by The Gramophone Company in 1933, 12 years after they opened the first HMV (“His Master’s Voice”) shop in London.
Letterhead used by David Bowie in 1966, a few months after changing his name from David Jones. 8 years later, his stationery looked like this.
Fantastic Bates Motel letterhead, as used for many years by Robert Bloch, author of Psycho.
Letterhead used by comedian and political activist Dick Gregory in the 1970s.
