Breaking Boundaries
I am ready for a fresh ‘25 what about you? Let’s dive into some trends and awesome graphic design ideas for you to take a swing at this year.
I want to share my thoughts on trends for a quick sec- in my experience trends are ideas that are evolving quickly and my belief is to to jump on the wave while its high and ride it- why not! I have found that doing this really helps push me as a designer. This happens in the obvious ways of course, but it also helps to evolve my work in other ways that I did not anticipate down the road. So take a look at these and then take your spin on them this year!
A couple of housekeeping ideas for context- first is that the world of graphic design is always in motion, evolving to reflect the culture, technology, and aesthetics of its time. Second- is that as we step into 2025, the landscape is shifting again, bringing forward bold, innovative trends that blend the digital and the tangible in innovative ways. Whether you’re a designer, marketer, or creative strategist, here are five graphic design trends poised to shape the industry this year:
1. Advanced Digital Glitch Effects
What was once a fringe aesthetic that evolved from my favorite style- grunge; has now matured into a sophisticated design language. In 2025, glitch effects are no longer about chaotic visuals—they’re about precision. Expect to see advanced glitch techniques used to craft purposeful disruptions in digital art, blending distortion with clarity to create dynamic storytelling. These designs will lean into themes of imperfection and the beauty of digital decay, often paired with sharp typography or minimalist layouts to maintain balance. They can be accomplished through digital tools or by code which makes this my personal favorite for the year! Think of it as a nod to the digital imperfections of our past, reimagined with cutting-edge tools.
2. Return to “In the Wild” Photography
Say goodbye to overly staged stock photos and hello to raw, candid moments captured in the wild. One place I love for this is Death to Stock → and Pexels → is definitely upping their game. In an era where authenticity is king, designers are embracing photography that feels genuine and unfiltered. This trend emphasizes the imperfect beauty of natural settings, real people, and unscripted interactions. Brands are using “In the Wild” photography to build trust and relatability, often combining these visuals with understated graphic elements to let the imagery speak for itself.
3. Dark Gallery Showcases
The rise of dark mode in user interfaces has paved the way for a broader trend in graphic design: the dark gallery aesthetic. Characterized by deep, moody color palettes and high-contrast lighting, this trend is all about creating an immersive, almost theatrical experience. Designers are using this style to showcase products, portfolios, and art in a way that feels both intimate and dramatic. It’s minimalist, yet it demands attention, proving that less can truly be more when paired with the right visual elements.
4. High-Rendered Illustrations
In 2025, illustrations are going big—and detailed. High-rendered illustrations are taking center stage, blending hyper-realism with artistic exaggeration. These designs often feature intricate textures, dynamic lighting, and a near-tangible depth that draws viewers in. Whether used in branding, packaging, or editorial work, high-rendered illustrations bring a handcrafted, premium feel that stands out in an increasingly digital world. The trend reflects a growing appreciation for the craft behind the visuals, making every detail count. I believe we will see a shift away from minimal and more abstract illustration styles as we seem to have seen those “everywhere” for years.
5. Neo-Contemporary Vintage
Vintage design is making a comeback, but not as you know it. Neo-contemporary vintage takes inspiration from past decades and reinterprets it through a modern lens. Expect to see retro color palettes, nostalgic typography, and vintage-inspired layouts paired with contemporary design principles like sleek grids and fluid animations. This trend celebrates the old while embracing the new, offering a sense of familiarity with a distinctly modern twist. It’s a perfect blend of sentimentality and innovation. This one is my other favorite! I am so stoked to work through this and bring to life the nostalgia while pushing the boundaries of modern design!
Looking Ahead
2025 is here- let’s go! What projects do you have on the horizon? Let me know and share them with me on LinkedIn or Behance- I would love to see your take on them. Remember as a designer or creative that you got this! In a time when AI can do a lot just remember its worth it to take your swing at creating- after all isn’t it why we creatives live and breathe?
Let me know what trends are you most excited about? Let’s keep the conversation going and make 2025 a year of standout design.