Hero Subheadline Design
Hero Subheadline Best Practices
The hero subheadline supports the headline by providing additional details about your product or service. It should enhance the message without overwhelming the user. Here are the key best practices for designing a strong subheadline:
Font Style
Complementary font
The subheadline should use a lighter or thinner version of the headline font or a complementary font family. This visual contrast helps distinguish the headline from the subheadline without breaking consistency.
Readable and professional
While the subheadline is typically smaller, it still needs to be easily readable. Avoid overly decorative fonts and focus on clarity.
Font Size
Smaller but still readable
The subheadline should be smaller than the headline—generally 18px to 36px on desktop and 16px to 24px on mobile. This keeps it visually secondary but important.
Responsive design
Ensure the subheadline remains legible and scales well on smaller devices without crowding the screen.
Font Color
Slight contrast from the headline
While the subheadline should be in the same color family as the headline, you can use a lighter or darker shade to create subtle visual hierarchy.
Ensure legibility
Like the headline, the subheadline should contrast with the background image to ensure it remains easy to read.
Placement Relative to the Hero Image
Position under the headline
The subheadline should be directly below the headline to create a natural reading flow. Make sure it is not placed over busy areas of the image or design elements.
Whitespace for readability
Provide enough space between the headline and subheadline to avoid clutter and maintain clarity.
Formatting
Use sentence case
It’s generally best to use sentence case (capitalize the first letter of the first word) for subheadlines, as this enhances readability.
Line spacing
Maintain sufficient line spacing, typically around 1.2 to 1.5, especially if the subheadline spans multiple lines. This improves readability and makes the text look more inviting
Alignment
Consistent with the headline
Align the subheadline in the same way as the headline—either left-aligned or center-aligned. This maintains balance and flow in the hero section.
Hierarchical placement
The subheadline should not overpower the headline. Keep its position and size subordinate but complementary.