Typography Guides · · By Fonts1 Editorial
Pairing fonts: a simple method that works
Three rules for combining a heading font with a body font so the result looks intentional.
Good pairings share some qualities and differ in others. The goal is contrast that is clearly deliberate, not two fonts that are almost the same.
Rule 1: contrast the structure
Pair a geometric sans-serif heading such as Poppins with a text serif like IBM Plex Serif. The difference in structure makes the roles of heading and body obvious.
Rule 2: match the proportions
Look at the x-height, the height of lowercase letters. When two fonts have a similar x-height they sit together more calmly at the same size.
Rule 3: keep one voice loud
If the heading font is expressive, like a script or display face, let the body font be quiet. Two expressive fonts compete for attention and tire the reader.
Try it
Open two font pages side by side, type the same sentence into each preview, and compare them at the size you will use. Trust your eyes over any formula.