M&S - previous entires

As this is a previous YCN brief, we decided that it would be beneficial to look at some past entires in order to gain some inspiration. This will allow us to see how product range works, and how a theme can be applied across a number of a products.

Summer Days Picnic - Sam Aylard

A summer days picnic is quite an obvious theme to opt for in terms of how an individual would normally view a picnic. It has taken on quite a simplistic approach, and instead of pushing the boundaries they have played it safe. Whilst the design looks traditional and effective, this could have been more playful and interactive to counter the summer theme. 

Keep Calm - Karly Sykes

The way that the picnic itself has been packaged is unique and effective. It is an interesting way of packaging food products, and reflects the style of a takeaway box. The brown stock works well, however, I feel that the green accents are way too garish and don't look as natural as they could. The 'Keep Calm...' phrase is also overused and tired, and therefore doesn't suit the Marks and Spencer target audience.

Traditional Picnic - Jennifer Swales

Whilst following quite a traditional theme, I feel that this picnic is very successful. The use of contrasting patterns and colours creates something a little bit different that actually goes on to compliment each other. The use of belly bands is an effective way of securing the packaging, giving it a contemporary aesthetic. The carrier it is placed on is not your usual picnic box, therefore offering the user something fun and unique. 

Mountain Picnic - Florie Parenthoux

This design shows there has been consideration of context and environment, allowing for a unique selling point. By allowing the picnic carrier to become a mat to sit on, the product has more than one use. The products themselves are bright, bold and geometric, which is fitting to it's theme.

Chinese Picnic - Susie Smith

This is a very refreshing and unique design that has been finished to a very high standard, which shows care and consideration of the audience. Different processes have been used, including embossing and laser cut, which will appeal to a high end market as it offers a luxurious aesthetic. 

Seaside Picnic - Claire Coulthard

This is a bold and fun design that looks contemporary and on trend. It is clear that context and environment has been taken into consideration, allowing for interaction with the products. Colour and type play main roles in creating an atmosphere that is appropriate to the given theme. 

Moustache Picnic - Lam Kam Wah

This is quite an unusual design in terms of theme and aesthetics. The designers have really thought outside the box to create something unique and quirky that will attract the attention of the modern day customer. The inclusion of props inside allows for interaction, enhancing group experience which leads to a more memorable product. 

London Olympics - Miranda Hebert

This concept is extremely clever, and it takes the theme of the olympics and targets a more contemporary and on trend audience. By avoiding the existing aesthetics of the olympics, this design comes across and fresh and appealing. The picnic includes a number of different interactive options, which I feel is necessary for it's theme, context and environment. It also picks up on simple yet clever aspects, such as using rings of fruit to mimic the olympic rings.