Product form significantly influences aesthetic, emotional, and usability-related perceptions. A recent publication in Design Studies investigates how abstract shapes and product forms are perceived, with a particular focus on gender differences. The results show that curved shapes are associated with higher aesthetic appeal and emotional response, while angular shapes are linked to functionality. Gender-specific differences are particularly evident in abstract form evaluations but decrease when transferred to concrete product contexts. The findings highlight the context dependency of form–meaning relationships and provide important implications for inclusive product design.
Gender and Aesthetics: Shape Effects in Product Design
