26 graphic design trends for 2025 you need to know

As creators and graphic designers, staying on top of emerging trends is essential for producing work that resonates with your audience and stands out in a crowded market.

In this blog, we'll cover the hottest graphic design trends taking center stage in 2025. If you’re hoping to boost your online store or seek inspiration for your next project, these insights will help you stay current and competitive.

• Knowing graphic design trends is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the evolving design landscape in 2025.

• Key trends include integrating technology and aesthetics, such as AI-powered design and augmented reality features.

• Nostalgic and futuristic influences blend in trends like retro serif branding and retrofuturism, offering diverse creative avenues.

• Emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity in design reflects growing consumer values and demands.

• Utilizing platforms like Gelato enhances opportunities to bring trendy, customizable designs to life through print on demand.

Graphic design trends create visually appealing designs and connect with the audience on a deeper level, enhancing engagement and brand loyalty. Here's a sneak peek at why these trends are important and how they transform the creative sphere: 

• Innovation in design: Trends encourage designers to break boundaries and experiment with novel ideas.

• Audience engagement: Incorporating current trends helps create designs that resonate more with contemporary audiences.

• Competitive edge: Staying updated with trends ensures that your work isn’t left behind in a rapidly evolving market.

Cultural relevance: Trends often reflect societal changes and technological advancements, making designs more relatable.

Here's a rundown of the top graphic design trends to keep your designs fresh and ahead of the curve this year.

1. AI-powered design

Artificial intelligence transforms the design world by enabling automation, enhancing creativity, and personalizing user experiences. 

Here's what it offers:

• Efficiency boost: AI tools automate repetitive tasks, allowing designers to focus on creative concepts.

• Personalization at scale: AI-driven algorithms create tailored visuals based on user preferences and behaviors.

• Expanding creative boundaries: AI can generate unique art styles, assisting designers in exploring new aesthetics.

• Integration in various projects: From business logo generation to dynamic ad campaigns, AI is reshaping the creative industry in many ways.

2. Retro serif branding

Vintage-inspired serif typography is making a comeback, adding a nostalgic yet sophisticated touch to modern branding. 

Here's why it's a hit:

• Timeless elegance: Serif fonts evoke a sense of tradition and credibility, making them ideal for luxury and heritage brands.

• Versatile aesthetics: They blend well with minimalist and maximalist design styles, allowing creative freedom.

• Growing popularity: Brands are embracing retro serifs to stand out in a digital environment dominated by sans-serif fonts.

• Ideal for branding projects: This trend is perfect for brand logos, packaging design, and editorial design.

3. Gothic badges

Dark, intricate badge designs inspired by medieval and gothic aesthetics are rising in popularity, offering a bold and dramatic appeal. Here's why:

• Edgy and distinct: Gothic badges add a unique, mysterious character to branding and apparel.

• Historical influence: The resurgence of vintage and fantasy aesthetics has driven interest in modern gothic fonts and design elements.

• Versatile application: Used in logos, product packaging, and digital artwork for brands seeking a bold visual identity.

• Perfect for niche markets: Popular in gaming, tattoo art, and music merchandise.

4. Pixelated fonts

This form of typography is making a strong comeback, bridging retro gaming aesthetics with modern design. It is nostalgic and futuristic at the same time. 

Here's a look at why it's popular:

• Digital nostalgia: This style taps into the early internet and video game culture, evoking a sense of fun and familiarity.

• Modern meets retro: Designers combine pixel fonts with high-tech visuals for a futuristic retro feel.

• Expanding beyond gaming: Originally popular in gaming, pixelated fonts are now seen in branding, web design, and advertising.

• Perfect for tech-focused projects: Pixel fonts are being used by startups, app developers, and entertainment brands to craft distinctive identities.

5. Metallics

Metallic effects in graphic design are gaining traction, adding a luxurious and futuristic feel to branding and visuals. 

Here's why they are trending:

• Luxe appeal: Shiny, reflective surfaces elevate designs, making them feel premium and high-end.

• Growing popularity: Metallics are trending in packaging, web design, and digital artwork due to their modern and dynamic appearance.

• Interactive depth: Metallic gradients and textures create an eye-catching, almost 3D effect in digital and print materials.

• Ideal for branding: Fashion, cosmetics, and tech brands use metallic elements to enhance visual appeal.

6. Motion graphics

Dynamic and engaging motion graphics are becoming a staple in digital design, transforming static visuals into immersive experiences. Here's why:

• Captivating storytelling: The movement grabs attention and enhances brand messaging.

• Versatility across platforms: Used in social media, websites, and digital ads to create visually engaging content.

• Rising demand: With short-form videos dominating online platforms, motion graphics are an essential tool for designers.

• Enhancing user experience: Websites and apps incorporate subtle animations for a smooth, interactive feel.

7. Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR reshape graphic design by offering immersive and interactive experiences beyond traditional visuals.

Here's a look at what these technologies offer:

• Engaging experiences: AR/VR elements allow users to interact with graphics in the natural world and digital environments.

• Expanding accessibility: More brands are integrating AR filters, VR showrooms, and immersive campaigns.

• Bridging physical and digital: AR-powered packaging, virtual store displays, and interactive advertising are gaining traction.

• Perfect for marketing and entertainment: Used by fashion, gaming, and real estate industries to enhance user engagement.

8. Dynamic branding and personalization

Brands are shifting toward flexible, adaptive designs that change based on user interaction and preferences. 

Here’s what is trending in dynamic branding:

• More than just a logo: Branding is evolving into living systems that adapt across different mediums.

• User-driven aesthetics: Companies use AI and data to customize branding key elements in real-time.

• Personalized user experiences: Websites, ads, and apps dynamically change based on customer behavior.

• Increasing brand engagement: Businesses that embrace dynamic branding build stronger connections with their global audience.

9. 3D design and typography

3D designs are transforming the way we perceive visuals. They combine depth and realism to create captivating designs that stand out in a saturated market. 

Here's what 3D designs offer:

• Enhanced visual engagement: 3D elements draw the viewer’s eye, making your design more attention-grabbing.

• Increased realism: The added depth and texture make graphics more lifelike, helping users connect with the content.

• Versatility: 3D designs can be applied across various mediums, from digital platforms to print materials.

• Innovative branding opportunities: Custom 3D typography can elevate your brand story, making it unique and memorable.

10. Muted color palettes

Muted colors, characterized by their desaturated and soft tones, are perfect for designs that aim to communicate calmness and elegance. 

Muted tones are perfect for: 

• Creating a calming effect: Muted colors can evoke feelings of relaxation and peace, ideal for brands focused on wellness and comfort.

• Improving readability: With less visual noise, text and other elements stand out more clearly against muted backgrounds, improving overall readability.

• Adding a touch of sophistication: Muted palettes can impart a sense of maturity and refinement to your designs, making them suitable for high-end products.

• Enhancing other design elements: Muted colors work well with various textures and experimental typography, offering great flexibility when creating cohesive visuals.

11. Asymmetrical layouts

Asymmetrical layouts break the mold of traditional, grid-like designs, starting a new graphic design trend of presenting visual content. This trend embraces imbalance and unpredictability, making designs more dynamic and engaging for:

• Increased visual interest: Asymmetrical layouts naturally draw the eye, making your design stand out and capture viewers' attention.

• Enhanced creativity: These layouts provide more freedom to experiment with positioning and proportions, encouraging unique and innovative design solutions.

• Improved storytelling: By using varying sizes and placement, asymmetrical designs can guide the viewer through a narrative in a more compelling way.

• Modern appeal: As audiences become more design-savvy, asymmetry reflects current aesthetics and keeps your work looking contemporary and relevant.

12. Inclusive visuals

By representing diverse cultures, body types, ages, and abilities in designs, you create a sense of belonging, inclusivity, and respect for all. This approach can broaden your audience and deepen your connection with them, providing benefits including:

• Enhanced brand reputation: Brands showcasing diversity are often seen as more progressive and respectful, boosting public perception.

• Greater engagement: People are more likely to engage with content reflecting their experiences and backgrounds.

• Improved customer loyalty: When customers feel seen and valued, they are more likely to return and support your brand.

13. Hand-drawn illustrations

These illustrations bridge the gap between flawless digital art and tactile worlds, making your brand stand out in a sea of computer-generated graphics. 

Here's how illustrations can improve your designs: 

• Adds a personal touch: Handcrafted elements infuse warmth and personality into your designs, making them feel more approachable and human.

• Encourages creativity: This type of freehand revival drawing inspiration allows for a wide range of artistic expression, letting your unique style shine through.

• Enhances storytelling: A hand-drawn approach can create more engaging narratives, conveying complex messages in an accessible and visually appealing manner.

• Boosts authenticity: Hand-drawn illustrations showcase imperfections, offering a genuine and relatable feel that resonates with audiences seeking authenticity.

14. Retrofuturism

Retrofuturism is a captivating blend of past and future design elements that brings a nostalgic yet forward-thinking vibe to your projects. 

This trend often incorporates sci-fi psychedelia, vintage art revival, and retro stripes, offering a unique visual experience full of: 

• Aesthetic versatility: Retrofuturism's wide appeal makes it suitable for various projects, from brand identities to marketing campaigns.

• Nostalgic allure: This trend taps into the collective memory, evoking a sense of nostalgia that can establish an emotional connection with your audience.

• Innovative edge: Combining vintage elements with futuristic designs offers a fresh perspective, making your work stand out.

• Timeless quality: Retrofuturism merges the best of both worlds, creating designs that feel timeless and relevant.

15. Text-heavy videos

These videos rely heavily on text to convey messages, making them ideal for covering complex topics, highlighting important data, and enhancing narrative storytelling. 

Here's a look at some of their key advantages: 

• Enhanced clarity: Displaying text in videos helps to emphasize key points, ensuring that viewers understand crucial information.

• Wider accessibility: Text-heavy videos are more accessible to those with hearing impairments, allowing them to follow the content without missing important details.

• Better engagement: Combining text with visuals effectively captures and retains the audience’s attention, making the content more memorable.

• High shareability: These videos are perfect for social media, driving higher engagement and shares due to their clear and concise messaging.

16. Minimalism

Minimalism continues to captivate designers in 2025, thanks to its clean, concise, and user-friendly visual appeal. By stripping elements down to their core essentials, minimalism maximizes visual impact and enhances user engagement. 

Here are some key advantages:  

• Clear communication: Minimalist designs strip away unnecessary elements, allowing the core message to stand out and making communication straightforward and effective.

• Timeless appeal: The minimalist aesthetic rarely goes out of style, ensuring your designs remain relevant and impactful over time.

• Faster loading times: By default, minimalist websites use fewer resources, which results in quicker load times and better performance on various devices.

• Professional look: Clean lines and orderly layouts inherently convey a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness.

17. Environmental and sustainability graphics

As the green movement gains momentum, environmental and sustainability graphics will become increasingly popular throughout 2025. 

These graphics help: 

• Attract eco-friendly consumers: Eco-conscious consumers are drawn to brands that promote sustainability, increasing customer loyalty.

• Boost brand image: Showcasing a commitment to the environment enhances your brand’s reputation.

• Encourage responsible behavior: These designs can inspire consumers to adopt more sustainable practices.

18. Dark mode aesthetics

Dark mode aesthetics are more than just a trend—they're becoming a necessity as we use digital devices throughout the day. 

Here are some of their key advantages: 

• Eye strain reduction: Dark mode is easier on the eyes, especially in low-light environments, reducing glare and minimizing eye fatigue.

• Battery conservation: For OLED and AMOLED screens, using dark mode can save battery life, making it an eco-friendly choice.

• Sleek and modern look: Dark backgrounds can make colors and images pop, giving designs a sophisticated and contemporary feel.

• Increased readability: With the right contrast, dark mode can enhance text readability, providing a better user experience.

19. Monochrome effects

Monochrome designs offer clarity and simplicity, often creating more memorable visual experiences. 

Here are a few of the key advantages: 

• Versatility: Monochrome schemes are versatile because they can be applied to various design elements, including logos, websites, and print materials.

• Emphasizes content: Monochrome designs reduce distractions, allowing the content to stand out and enhancing readability and engagement.

• Cost-effective: Utilizing a single-color palette can reduce printing costs, which is especially beneficial for print on demand products.

• Elegant and timeless: Monochrome designs often have a classic, timeless appeal that resonates well with different audiences and trends.

20. Neumorphism

Neumorphism, a portmanteau of “new” and “skeuomorphism,” captivates designers with its soft elements and minimalist aesthetics. This design trend combines subtle shadows and highlights to create a realistic, three-dimensional effect, guaranteeing: 

• Enhanced user experience: Neumorphism's tactile nature makes interfaces more intuitive and engaging, enhancing the overall user experience.

• Modern aesthetic: This trend lends a contemporary and sophisticated appearance to your designs, making them stand out in a crowded market.

• Versatile application: Neumorphism is highly adaptable and can be used in web design, mobile apps, and even branding materials.

• Subtle elegance: With its soft shadows and light highlights, Neumorphism adds a layer of subtle elegance to any design project.

21. Maximalism

Maximalism in graphic design embraces extravagance and complexity. This trend starkly contrasts with minimalism, favoring intricate compositions, bold fonts, and a vibrant mix of colors and patterns. 

It’s a celebration of abundance, perfect for those who want their designs to: 

• Grab attention: Maximalism captivates the viewer immediately with its vivid details and dynamic elements.

• Encourage self-expression: This style allows designers to showcase their creativity without restraint, making each piece unique and personal.

• Tell a story: Loaded compositions and narrative-rich designs provide depth and context, engaging audiences on multiple levels.

• Break the monotony: In a sea of minimalist designs, maximalism offers a fresh and daring alternative.

22. Collage and mixed media

Collages are no longer confined to just cut-and-paste imagery; they incorporate digital mosaics, handmade illustrations, and generative art, culminating in intricate compositions that: 

• Emphasize storytelling: Collage and mixed media allow for the creation of complex narratives, making designs more engaging and memorable.

• Display versatility: This trend allows artists to mix different materials, styles, and techniques, resulting in unique and personalized artwork.

• Enhance visual interest: Combining diverse elements adds depth and texture to your designs, making them more dynamic and eye-catching.

• Boost creativity: Experimenting with various media can spark fresh ideas and push the boundaries of your design capabilities.

23. Grain and noise texture

These elements add a layer of realism and depth, transforming flat visuals into something truly engaging and visually stunning. 

Here's why this trend is catching on: 

• Enhanced visual appeal: Grain and noise textures can break the monotony of flat colors, making designs appear more dynamic and interesting.

• Vintage vibe: These textures can evoke nostalgia, creating a retro aesthetic that appeals to various audiences.

• Masking imperfections: They are excellent for masking various imperfections or inconsistencies inherent in digital designs.

• Depth and dimension: Adding grain and noise can create a sense of depth and dimensionality, making the design more engaging.

24. Variable fonts & bold typography

These fonts allow designers to customize weight, width, and other attributes, providing unparalleled flexibility. 

Here are some advantages of this design: 

• Enhanced flexibility: Adjusting font weight, width, and other attributes enables an easy fit for various design needs.

• Improved performance: They minimize the number of font files needed, resulting in faster loading times.

• Consistent aesthetic: Maintains uniformity across different platforms and devices, ensuring a professional look.

• Creative freedom: Opens up possibilities for animations and transitions, enhancing user experience.

25. Abstract and geometric shapes

Abstract elements and geometric shapes are aesthetically pleasing and versatile, making them suitable for various projects, from web design to branding. 

Have a look at some of the key advantages: 

• Enhanced visual appeal: Abstract and geometric shapes instantly make your designs stand out and catch the viewer’s attention.

• Versatility and flexibility: These shapes can adapt and enhance the overall composition for a minimalist project or a more complex design.

• Modern and trendy feel: Incorporating these elements can give your designs a contemporary edge, keeping them relevant in a fast-evolving design landscape.

• Ease of repetition: These shapes can be easily arranged, allowing for consistent yet dynamic patterns.

26. Vivid surrealism

This trend blends hyper-realism and surrealism, creating artwork that feels both incredibly real and wonderfully impossible. 

Have a look at some of its key advantages: 

• Captivating visuals: Vivid surrealism's dream-like quality draws viewers in, making it ideal for marketing and social media graphics.

• Versatility: This trend works across various industries, from food and beverage brands to music and clothing.

• Emotional impact: Surreal elements can evoke strong emotions, helping create a deeper connection with your audience.

• High engagement: Its unique and intriguing nature encourages viewers to share and discuss, boosting your content's reach.

Now that you understand current graphic design trends, let’s explore how to incorporate them into your work.

Stay informed and do your research

Keeping up with design trends requires active research. Follow industry blogs, attend design conferences, and engage with creative communities. Explore emerging tools like AI-powered design software and VR applications. Understanding why trends are gaining traction will help you implement them effectively while ensuring your work remains relevant and forward-thinking.

Balance trends with timeless design principles

Trends come and go, but strong design principles last forever. Use trends as inspiration while maintaining basic elements like hierarchy, readability, and simplicity. This approach ensures your designs remain impactful even after trends fade. By blending innovation with classic techniques, you create visually appealing work that stands the test of time.

Experiment with trends in small projects first

Before fully committing to a trend, test it in smaller projects. Design a social media post, a personal portfolio update, or a limited-run campaign to gauge its effectiveness. This allows you to refine your approach, identify potential challenges, and determine whether a trend aligns with your brand or client needs before large-scale implementation.

Keep your audience in mind

A trend is only useful if it resonates with your target audience. Before incorporating a new style, consider their preferences, expectations, and cultural background. A visually striking design that doesn’t connect with your audience may fail to achieve its purpose. Always prioritize clarity, engagement, and emotional impact when applying design trends.

Refine your personal style while adapting trends

Trends should enhance, not overshadow, your unique design style. Integrate them in ways that align with your creative identity. Instead of blindly following what’s popular, pick elements that complement your existing aesthetic. This ensures your work remains original and recognizable, helping you stand out while staying current in the industry.

Maintain consistency across your designs

While incorporating trends, ensure your overall design remains cohesive. A brand or portfolio should not feel disjointed because of excessive trend adoption. Establish guidelines for vibrant colors, typography, and composition to maintain uniformity. Consistency builds trust, enhances brand recognition, and ensures that trendy elements feel intentional rather than out of place.

Prioritize functionality over aesthetics

Trendy designs should not compromise usability. Ensure that any new visual elements serve a functional purpose, whether improving readability, engagement, or user experience. Avoid using flashy effects that hinder navigation or overwhelm the audience. A well-balanced design should be both visually appealing and practical in its application.

Test trends across different mediums

A trend may work well in one medium but fail in another. Experiment with digital and print applications to see how different design elements translate across platforms. What looks great on a website may not work in packaging or editorial design. Testing ensures that your designs remain effective regardless of the format.

Adapt trends for long-term usability

Some trends are short-lived, while others evolve into lasting design movements. When incorporating a trend, consider how it can be adapted for longevity. Subtle integrations, such as using trend-inspired color palettes or typography, can keep designs fresh without feeling outdated too quickly. Aim for flexibility to extend the relevance of your work.

Seek feedback and stay flexible

Design is an iterative process, and trends continuously evolve. Share your work with peers, clients, or online communities to gain insights and refine your approach. Be open to adjusting your designs based on constructive feedback. Staying adaptable ensures that your work remains innovative, relevant, and aligned with industry shifts.

Armed with the latest insights into 2025's graphic design trends, you can integrate these styles into your offerings with Gelato's print on demand solutions. Whether it's customizable t-shirts, mugs, wall art, phone cases, tote bags, or photo books, Gelato provides a vast array of products to bring your visions to life.

Gelato's Personalization Studio empowers creators to customize designs to align perfectly with their distinct style and business objectives, ensuring creations are innovative, competitive, and at the forefront of design.

Sign up for Gelato today andselect a subscription plan that complements your design aspirations. With Gelato in your corner, you can stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving realm of graphic design.

What are the creative industry trends in 2025?

The creative industry will continue to embrace AI-driven design, dynamic branding, immersive AR/VR experiences, and sustainable design practices. Motion graphics, retro aesthetics, and experimental typography are also gaining traction.

What is the logo design trend for 2025?

Logos are shifting toward adaptable, dynamic branding with responsive designs that change based on context. Retro serif fonts, gothic badges, and natural textures are trending, adding character and depth.

Is AI going to make graphic design obsolete?

AI enhances graphic design, not replaces it. While automation speeds up processes and generates ideas, human creativity, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking remain irreplaceable. Designers will use AI as a tool for efficiency, but originality and artistic vision will always require human input.

How to incorporate graphic design trends when creating a brand identity?

Integrate trends subtly to keep branding timeless. Use contemporary typography, color palettes, and motion elements without overwhelming the core identity. Ensure consistency across platforms while aligning trends with brand values.