Looks Aren’t Everything
The Principles of Graphic Design in Theory and Practice
Book details
- Author
- Nikolina Jerković
- ISBN
- 12343554656
- Number of pages
- 256
- Date of issue
- 2026
- Language
- English
- Binding
- E-book — PDF
Is graphic design just slapping elements together until it looks good, or "sexy"?
Or is there something deeper happening behind the pixel-flashing visuals?
Let's be real. This book breaks down the fundamental theory, psychology, and practical frameworks of graphic and UI design so you can stop decorating and start designing with intent.
Looks Aren’t Everything — design is experience, problem-solving, and communication!
I’ve been officially designing for 13+ years, and have faced a design industry reality check. I’ve heard it all... "Make the logo bigger." "Surprise me!" "Can we try something else?" "Just a quick and simple logo." "Make it sexy and modern." "Design is art."—and the list goes on. And on. It's enough to give any designer existential dread about their career path.
That’s exactly why I wrote Looks Aren’t Everything. In this book, I write about a designer’s life and break down the essentials of design theory with real-world examples from my experience. This gives you solid ground to stand on.
Who is this book for?
Whether you're a design student looking to build a strong foundation or a freelancer aiming to jump-start your career, this book is for you.
But it doesn’t stop there. It’s also a valuable guide for marketing teams, product owners, CEOs, and anyone working with products and brands—because great design impacts everything.
In short...
this book is a game-changer for:
- Aspiring designers mastering graphic & UI design fundamentals.
- Junior designers landing their first real design job.
- Experienced designers sharpening their skills.
- Marketing teams, product owners, CEOs, and founders making smarter creative decisions.
What's Inside?
- Design Perspectives – Get the low-down on why design is everything and how it’s shaking up every industry.
- Design's Connections – See how design vibes with other fields and sparks major creativity.
- The Design Process IRL – Turn your ideas into actual designs with these easy steps.
- Design Through Time – From ancient times to now—how design’s been flexing for centuries.
- Unlock Your Creative Brain – Boost your imagination and start thinking like a pro.
- Timeless Design Principles – The stuff that never goes out of style.
- For Modern Professions – Apply design rules to UX/UI, web design, and more.
- Design Hacks – Master space, shapes, typography, grids, colors… basically all the design essentials.
- Detailed Illustrations – Get inspo from designers worldwide who are killing it.
And if you're AI prompting, you'll understand what you're prompting.
What readers say
Finally, a design book that cuts through the 'make the logo bigger' noise. The real-world examples and theory gave me the solid ground I needed as a freelancer. Highly recommend!
As a product owner, this book completely shifted my perspective. It bridges the gap between creative teams and business strategy perfectly. Essential reading for anyone working with brands.
Perfect for students and junior UI/graphic designers. It strips away the abstract and teaches you the actual design process IRL. It’s practical, readable, and a total game-changer.
Even with years of experience, this was a fantastic refresher on why design is communication, not just art. It’s packed with great insights on the industry's connection to marketing and business.
Try Before You Buy
Not sure if this book is for you? No problemas!
Download a free 54-page sample and explore the content before making a decision.
No Returns on Digital Products
Since this is a digital-only book, refunds aren’t possible (you keep pdf forever—no take-backsies!)
To avoid buyer’s remorse, grab the free 54-page sample first and make sure it’s a match made in design heaven. (I almost tipped into cringe mode here, but seriously—if you're unsure about what I'm saying, double-check before you buy!)