Staying up-to-date on the latest design trends and ideas can feel overwhelming. But it’s important for designers to keep their finger on the pulse of what’s happening in the industry. This week we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite new design concepts that are worth paying attention to. From innovative packaging to experimental typography, these concepts show the creative possibilities that exist when designers push boundaries and think outside the box.
Geometric Textiles
Geometric patterns are emerging in fresh new ways across textile design this week. We love how designers are using mathematical shapes in unexpected color palettes and combinations. Mixing organic shapes with rigid lines creates eye-catching contrast. These textiles would elevate any interior space with their artful geometric designs. We especially love the three-dimensional, sculptural quality of these patterns.
Hand-drawn Lettering
Beautiful hand-drawn lettering in packaging, branding, and other graphic design projects is having a moment right now. The imperfections and quirks of hand-drawn typography adds warmth, personality, and individuality to any design. This playful lettering style reminds us to appreciate the human, handcrafted element of graphic design. We’re seeing hand-drawn lettering applied in many different contexts, from restaurant menus to product packaging. It never fails to catch the eye and spark curiosity.
Asymmetrical Layouts
Symmetry has long been a standard in graphic design that carries a sense of order and balance. But lately we’ve noticed designers playing with asymmetrical layouts in fresh, unexpected ways. Breaking free of symmetry creates visual interest and energy. Dividing space on the page unevenly can also help direct the viewer’s attention in clever ways. We love this innovative, rule-breaking approach and how it still results in designs that feel cohesive and intentional.
Maximalist Typography
Minimal typography has reigned in graphic design for many years. But lately designers are embracing a maximalist approach to fonts that really packs a visual punch. Combining multiple fonts, weights, colors, scales, and styles all togetherresults in vibrant typographic illustrations. At first glance it may seem overdone, but in the right context this inventive use of fonts creates designs full of personality. Maximalist typography demands attention in the best possible way.
Abstract Photography
Abstract photography is having a surge in popularity this week. By photographingordinary objects from unconventional angles, photographers are able to capture mesmerizing abstract compositions. Zooming in close, focusing on small details, and experimenting with shadows, reflections, and light are all ways to achieve abstraction in photography. The imagination required to see abstract potential all around us is incredibly inspiring. These photographs could easily be mistaken for paintings or graphic design.
Surreal Portraiture
Surrealism is back in an exciting way across digital art and illustration this week. Combining realism with fantastical elements results in imagery that is both recognizable yet dreamlike. Exaggerating proportions, blending humans with nature, and incorporating mysticism are just some of the ways we’re seeing surrealism thrive in modern portraiture. These compelling illustrations leave the viewer wanting to learn the stories hidden within them. It’s a brilliant use of imagination and technique.
Cut-Out Collage
The art of collage continues to evolve in new directions. One of our favorite collage trends right now utilizes precisely cut-out imagery layered into surreal compositions. Combining cut-outs of plants, animals, textures, and more creates incredible depth and dimension. Unlike messy, haphazard collages, these thoughtfully crafted compositions align various elements into a cohesive visual narrative. It’s an intricate, labor-intensive process that clearly pays off in these stunning, multi-layered artworks.
Pastel Neon
Neon colors are synonymous with bright, bold vibrancy. But lately we’ve spotted some innovative uses of pastel neons that offer a softer, more subtle effect. Muted neon hues like blush pink, pale lime green, and baby blue still capture that fluorescent energy, just with dialed-down saturation. Pastel neon feels nostalgic yet fresh at the same time. We love this innovative use of color and how it maintains a glowing, psychedelic effect even at a lower intensity. Expect to see pastel neon colors emerge across all areas of design.
Alternative Canvases
Artists are moving beyond traditional canvases this week and finding creative ways to reimagine what a painting surface can be. From aluminum to fruit skins to sand, anything goes when it comes to alternative canvases. Found objects and recycled materials are also popular choices that align with sustainable values. Painting on unexpected surfaces adds texture, depth, and multisensory appeal to artwork. It forces artists to work in new ways and consider how the surface itself impacts the image. Alternative canvases keep art exciting.
Motion Graphics
Motion graphics that use subtle movements to bring designs to life are having a real moment right now. Small details like flickering lights, bouncing balls, liquid textures, and illustrated characters moving across the frame all enliven graphic design projects in memorable ways. Movement attracts our eye and enhances engagement. Integrating motion also helps extend graphic concepts into short video projects to spread across digital platforms. We love this innovation in graphic design and how it bridges mediums.
Conclusion
Keeping up with the latest innovations in design requires an open mind and curiosity to embrace new trends. Stepping outside your comfort zone as a designer leads to growth and discovery. We hope these 10 design ideas from this week offer some insight and inspiration! Let us know which concepts resonate with you and how you envision incorporating them into your own work as a designer. The possibilities are endless when you approach design with imagination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the top design trends right now?
Some of the top design trends right now based on our picks this week include geometric textiles, hand-drawn lettering, asymmetrical layouts, maximalist typography, abstract photography, surreal portraiture, cut-out collage, pastel neon colors, alternative canvases, and subtle motion graphics.
How can I stay up-to-date on the latest design ideas?
Some ways to stay current on the latest design ideas include reading design blogs, following designers and companies on social media, checking out prominent design publications, attending virtual events and workshops, subscribing to design newsletters, and setting Google Alerts for relevant design topics.
Why is it important to know about new design concepts?
Knowing about emergent design concepts, styles, and techniques allows you to stay competitive, offer clients cutting-edge work, expand your skills, spearhead new creative directions, and prevent your work from feeling stale or outdated. It sparks inspiration and new ways of thinking.
Where can I see examples of these design trends?
Many of these design trends can be viewed on platforms like Instagram, Behance, Dribbble, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, design blogs, and portfolios of innovative creative agencies. Following and connecting with forward-thinking designers exposes you to examples.
How long do design trends tend to last?
The lifespan of design trends varies greatly, ranging from a few months to a few years. Some emerge rapidly in popularity before fading away, while others evolve gradually into widely adopted styles. Keeping a pulse on trends allows you to utilize them at their peak popularity.
What makes a design concept into a full-fledged trend?
For a design style or technique to graduate from a novel concept to a mainstream trend, it usually needs to reach a tipping point of adoption among influential designers and brands. Trends arise when many creatives simultaneously push the boundaries of design in a shared new direction.
How can I use these trends in my own work?
You can incorporate these design ideas into your own work by experimenting with them in concept drafts, personal projects, or low-stakes client work to start. Adapt trends in ways that align with your brand’s style and strengths. Add your own twist.
Is following trends completely necessary?
No – many iconic brands succeed by sticking to a timeless style versus chasing trends. But for most designers, integrating at least some relevant trends keeps your work fresh. Find a balance between trends and your own aesthetic.
What are some tips for executing design trends successfully?
Tips for effectively leveraging design trends include picking only a few trends to focus on at once, truly understanding how/why the trend originated before applying it, aligning trends with your target audience, allowing your own personal style to shine through, and knowing when to drop trends that have peaked.
