As part of Washington University’s Branding & Identity course, I delivered a visual case study presentation analyzing design studio RO&CO’s brand identity for Gelée, a luxury jelly brand founded in 2024. I was tasked with researching the studio’s background, methodology, outputs, and impact, using the process to enhance my own understanding of how professionals transform products into immersive, artful brands.
CASE STUDY OVERVIEW
I began by researching RO&CO’s as a studio: their client base consisted of luxury brands such as Gucci and Bulgari, and they boasted a “holistic brand alignment” approach. I then examined Gelée’s product, audience, and core challenge: creating a fresh and elevated jelly brand that reimagined the nostalgia of Jell-O, but did not resemble a health supplement. Lastly, I researched the references behind the brand identity, which included vintage Italian signage and surrealist paintings.
RESEARCH
After synthesizing my research, I analyzed how RO&CO transformed their concept into form across typography, packaging, and photography. The custom script style wordmark boasted heavy stroke weights and exaggerated curves, with a restrained black-and-white palette allowing the bright jelly product to take center stage. Additionally, I examined design applications such as web design, surreal-style photography, and an influencer gift collage.
DESIGN ANALYSIS
My final presentation functioned as both a research case study and a designed artifact. I highlighted Gelée’s recognition through awards, collaborations, and social engagement to demonstrate the success of RO&CO’s brand design. I delivered a detailed critical analysis of RO&CO’s methodology, artistic influences, wordmark typography, and visual applications, all whilst ensuring a visually aesthetic and cohesive case study presentation. The presentation was awarded a final score of 100, the highest in the class.
RESULT
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