To start, it is necessary to define the meaning of the word “trend”. It can mean an idea, inclination or current that influences a specific population with the purpose of offering a direction for the development of innovative and functional products.
When we talk about trends we can also refer to that own style or personal brand that a designer has and which gives her a status within the “industry”. It is important to keep in mind that current trends influence creatives so they don’t distance themselves from the way in which the industry is working.
Today, the sub-areas of design can become infinite. Every day, new techniques, methodologies or applications are discovered which give these creators the freedom to experiment and positively impact the different social movements and thoughts.
Many of the influences from 2017 continue with great force and it would not be a surprise if they continue as an orientation for 2018.
What Survives…
Among the techniques that are still relevant for this year, we find what is known as flat design; it is a graphic style that has captivated creatives because it is impeccable at the time of implementation, as it does not bother the viewer with thousands of elements that can bring confusion.
One that will always be a classic is the vintage design, a style that generally presents neutral tones, organic forms, and personalized typographies. This style has always distinguished itself by being very sober and elegant in its execution, in addition to having subtle elements that allow a unique style.
In the same way, we find minimalism with its motto of “less means more”. New graphic styles have arrived and it would not be strange if this movement loses some influence in the creative environment.
With the new year, creatives have taken the freedom of proposing certain methodologies or practices such as asymmetric designs, highly contrasted designs or compositions with certain random elements which years ago were not accepted among the creative community because they had unnatural elements (it wasn’t aesthetic).
For this reason, the visual methodologies implemented in previous years will experience a change to open the door for more challenging and innovative proposals, without losing the focus, which is to communicate an idea in the clearest way, as graphic design must produce not only beautiful elements but also functional and practical.
New Trends
We already mentioned some of the graphic styles that are still alive, but it is time to make room for those who are on the rise.
Previously, the glitch design or also called “fail effect”, was not a well-received practice among the creatives since it distorted the image, sometimes in exaggerated ways, and for this reason the message was confusing for the viewers.
This technique has gradually been transforming itself to the point of being welcomed and implemented by the creatives. Likewise, it is still a mystery due to the manipulation of the image through colors, shapes or positions, elements which used in the right way result in a piece with impressive visual richness.
Another current trend is called double exposure, in which two elements that form a single composition and messages are superimposed. This effect must be implemented carefully because the addition of images without a clear objective can deviate the true intention of the piece.
Finally, the 3D design has come to stay within the creative community, changing the traditional perspectives, where the flat designs, solid colors and large empty spaces were protagonists. By using elements in 3D, a new perspective with more volume, a perfect combination of colors, complex shapes and amazing scenarios is incorporated into the designs.
3D elements allow the representation of real life as they have the ability to simulate environments and realistic elements. Therefore, this technique is widely used in product design or virtual interfaces that aim to approach what would be the final result.
2018 brings more trends, but what really matters is that designers start to innovate in the fields in which they work since they are a source of inexhaustible creativity. In the end, they should be the ones who establish new movements that transform the perspective and direction of the design.
