What does a style guide typically include?

A style guide typically includes standards for design elements, which serve as a framework for maintaining visual and thematic consistency throughout a project. These standards often cover aspects such as typography, color palettes, logo usage, image styles, and overall layout, ensuring that all pieces of visual communication align with the brand's identity and messaging. By adhering to these guidelines, designers can create cohesive and professional visuals that effectively represent the brand and provide a clear user experience.

The other options, while potentially relevant in specific contexts, do not encapsulate the primary purpose of a style guide. The personal preferences of a client may inform some choices within a design project, but they are not formalized in a style guide. Historical design references may be used for inspiration, but they do not set standards. Legal regulations regarding web content are important for compliance purposes, but they are not typically covered by a style guide, which focuses more on aesthetic and functional aspects of design.