Graphic Design Trends for 2024

The term graphic design was first coined in 1922 in an essay by William Addison Dwiggins titled "New Kind of Printing Calls for New Design", but the origins of graphic design dates back as far as 38,000BC where stories were first communicated through cave paintings. As we approach 2024 graphic design remains as present as it was hundreds and thousands of years ago due to its ability to evolve and to respond to the ever spinning forward motion of life on earth. We have come a long way from cave painting and today, technology and digitisation dominates almost all forms of communication. But it’s not only technology that has an influence on movements and trends, there are also cultural and social factors that weigh in. Let’s take a look at what 2024 can promise and how you can extract inspiration for your own work.

Embracing the New Aesthetics of Design

Experimental typography

As software becomes more sophisticated, it is becoming easier and more affordable to experiment with fonts and typography. Designers are getting creative with custom fonts that are both visually appealing and more importantly, readable. This pattern reflects a shift toward specialised and personalised brand identities.

Sustainable and eco-friendly design

With the pressure to adhere to environmentally responsible choices becoming increasingly important, sustainability applies to all areas of design, and graphic design is no exception. This design trend incorporates eco-friendly materials and practices, as well as themes that promote sustainability. But it is also worth noting that sustainability is more than a mere trend, it is a movement that will last far beyond 2024.

Vibrant colour palettes and gradients

Expect to see bright, saturated colours and smooth, multi-colored gradients. This trend is a push towards confidence and optimism as we enter the final act of the first quarter of the 21st century. Colour palettes in 2024 will be brimming with youthful exuberance and vibrant energy.

Data visualisation and infographics

Data is the most valuable currency of the decade and heralds a greater need for clear and engaging data visualisation. Infographics and data-driven designs are rapidly evolving with an emphasis on storytelling and user engagement.

Retro-futurism in design

We are going back to the future! Retro-futurism, which combines traditional aesthetics with futuristic elements, is here. This design trend combines nostalgic design elements from the past with modern, futuristic details to create a one-of-a-kind, time-travelling visual experience.

Inclusive and diverse imagery in graphic design

Inclusivity and diversity have taken a seat at the table and are important elements of all aspects of communication and popular culture. The practice of graphic design is at the forefront of visual design with inclusive and diverse imagery becoming a staple. This trend and movement ensures that a range of cultures, identities, and experiences are represented on a broader scale.

Minimalism in graphic design

While minimalism remains popular, it is becoming more complex. Minimalistic designs with subtle details, textures, and layered elements can provide depth and sophistication to simple compositions. Less is more!

Animation and motion graphics

Content is king and with the internet filling up with higher quality content, the pressure is on to make work that stands out. A side effect of this is the use of motion graphics and animation which is expanding exponentially, particularly in digital media. Animated logos, interactive web elements, and short-form video content are all becoming increasingly important components of engaging design.

So, now you know what to expect from 2024, how will you implement these trends in your work to, not only remain relevant, but to set new trends further into the future? The number one piece of advice is to be open enough to embrace new ways of doing things, while maintaining your own voice and your own distinct style. Experiment with these trends in your projects to see how they can help to improve your design narratives. Try to achieve a balance between new trends and fundamental design principles. The strongest designs are those that combine current trends with classic aesthetics to create something timeless.

The graphic design trends for 2024 are all about risk-taking, sustainability, inclusivity, and technological integration. Adopting these trends as a graphic designer can elevate your work and keep you at the forefront of the industry. Stay curious, experiment, and let these trends inspire your creative journey in the coming year!

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