The Main Design Trends Witnessed in 2018 on Artwork for Print

As always, the new year is seeing new design trends appearing. We're already well into 2018! Our graphic design team like to keep on top of trends and fit our clients work in with the modern era. This post is going to pick out the main trends that we have noticed accross all print and graphic design.

CREATIVE TYPOGRAPHY

Designers will be opting for artistic effects, extra-large font sizes and huge headlines when it comes to typography on designs.

When it comes to this technique, imagination is your strongest asset. Creative typography can be combined with other techniques or used solely in the design. It impresses in both cases. Check out these eye-pleasing examples.

ABSTRACT GEOMETRIC SHAPES

Abstract geometry, with its seemingly random placement of shapes, has become prominent in modern graphic design. It might seem like a sudden trend, but it has roots in early modern art and even pre-historic art.

Abstract Geometry is finding its way into design for festival posters, web design, magazine covers, and anywhere else accepting of its expressive and modern look.

HAND-DRAWN ILLUSTRATIONS

Over the past year or so I have seen designers move away from cookie-cutter graphics to more custom icons and illustrations. And I could not be happier.

This movement started to take form last year with the rise of hand-drawn illustrations and icons. Stock images are gradually being pushed out of the way for new creative imagery ideas. We see a lot of want for hand drawn illustrations in all different types of artwork. My opinion, this is great! A new idea, a new image to capture your audiences attention.

No one else is going to be able to replicate, especially with a stock image.

GRADIENTS & COLOUR TRANSITIONS

When Instagram changed its logo back in 2016 into a colorful gradient, nobody thought this trend was going to become so huge. It was just the beginning of its rise.

Flat design is evolving, and gradients are making their modern-day comeback as a flat design enhancement. Throw out the block colours and give your design some dept using gradients!

We’re also seeing an increased use of the term “color transitions” when referring to gradients. While the terms seem to be used interchangeably, “color transition” more often refers to the modern application which is vibrant, smooth and “flatter”—fitting within flat design aesthetics.