The design industry has already seen a massive shift in trends for 2021. As we continue to navigate the pandemic, designers have been looking towards creating more empathetic and people-driven designs. The trends we have seen so far this year are a nod towards positive change and a celebration of new beginnings.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability has been an ongoing trend and is dominating the design industry in 2021. Companies are striving to reduce their carbon footprints and be more eco-friendly, which has resulted in the design industry focusing on creating sustainable designs. The use of eco-friendly materials and practices has been on the rise, and it is no longer only reserved for niche companies. Many established brands have embraced sustainable design, resulting in a positive impact on the environment.
Minimalism
Minimalism has always been a prominent design trend, and it shows no signs of disappearing any time soon. The concept of minimalism focuses on creating designs with clean lines, simple shapes, and a limited use of color. Minimalism is a design language that seeks to transmit one message using few elements to convey meaning. In 2021, this trend has evolved to include a more soft, pastel color palette.
Gradients
Gradients are the transition of one color or shade to another, and they have become a major trend this year. Designers have embraced this trend by creating pieces with gradient backgrounds and subtle color transitions mixed with different textures. This trend has taken over backgrounds in websites and social media feeds.
Motion Design & 3D
Animation and 3D have taken over the design industry in 2021. The use of motion graphics and animation is prevalent in branding, advertising, and on social media. Designers are also creating pieces that display 3D art and sculptural-style designs.
Hand-Drawn Illustrations
In contrast to the clean lines and minimalism trend, hand-drawn illustrations have become popular again. This trend moves away from digital design and back towards traditional techniques that create a beautiful, distinctive line style. Hand-drawn illustrations are an excellent way to add a playful and friendly feel to a design piece.
Neomorphism
Neomorphism is a design language that focuses on creating elements that are closer to real-life designs, with a focus on creating designs that use embossing effects, gradients, and shadows to create an elevated and realistic look. The neomorphic design style is bold, modern, and eye-catching.
Conclusion
These design trends have taken over 2021, emphasizing companies’ growing consciousness of their responsibilities to the environment, the people they serve, and the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and user experience. Designers are pushing boundaries by experimenting with a range of new techniques and materials to create designs that feel fresh, engaging, and genuine. As a result, we expect to see more companies embracing these trends in 2021, and beyond as we see where the market takes the industry next.
