As we look to 2025, the intersection of graphic design and technology continues to evolve, shaping new trends that redefine creativity. Thought leaders in the industry have shared their insights on what to expect in the coming years.
Freehand Revival Gains Popularity In Graphic Design
As an architecture graduate, one trend I’ve noticed in the scene lately is the use of Freehand revival. Specifically, to promote events and advocacies related to one’s business. I remember bringing this design into light during one of our brainstorming sessions. I personally loved its take on human imperfections and how it resonates clearly with our brand’s story.
In my years of spearheading a few of our marketing campaigns, I’ve learned that it isn’t so bad to experiment with the unfamiliar. It’s what prompted us to try doing different designs while remaining loyal to our brand’s objectives. I believe it’s what us and most businesses do to ensure we’re staying ahead of the game. Not only will it promote a positive image for our brand but it’ll also allow us to reach a new category of audience as well. After all, I personally believe that all our efforts to be relevant will remain fruitless if we don’t incorporate what our brand aims to achieve in the first place.
Mimi Nguyen, Founder, Cafely
Minimalism Continues To Dominate
The graphic design market, and graphic designers in general, have made many small tactical changes in their approach to designing in 2025 however the main design trends we have seen the industry gravitating towards have generally remained unchanged for the past 5 or so years. This is the overall trend of simplicity.
Whether designers are producing logos, handouts, product packaging, social media, or any other variable professional concept, we have seen the simple approach, minimalist, with less complexity take the stage. This involves bold lettering, a reduction of noise and complex designs with multiple elements on one canvass, moderate color use (2-3 maximum), and straight to the point messaging. Today we see designs trending towards simplicity to quickly capture the attention of the prospect, which is generally in-line with the going attention spans of todays market heavily influenced by social media.
We are also noticing a trend similar to that we experienced during the 90s – 00s transition. We are getting back towards the more grey, hard colors, and pulling away from the vibrant bright and explosive coloring we had seen in previous years.
This minimalist design trend is expected to maintain within the next 4 years. I do believe, as with all trends, we will then start to see a revert to the more complex designs like we are used to seeing from brands like Starbucks.
Ryan Anderson, President, Markiserv
Motion-Based Micro-interactions Transform Design
Motion-based micro-interactions integrated directly into functional UI elements are defining graphic design in 2025, replacing static visuals with purposeful animations that guide user behavior. We’re also seeing the rapid adoption of environment-adaptive design systems that automatically adjust visual elements based on user context, time of day, and even emotional signals detected through interaction patterns. Another significant trend is the integration of dimensional depth through subtle AR elements that don’t require specialized hardware but add layers of information when users engage with specific design elements. These trends collectively focus on making design responsive to human behavior rather than merely aesthetically pleasing.
Vick Antonyan, CEO, humble help
Retro-Futurism Resurges
The resurgence of retro-futurism dominates 2025’s graphic design landscape with its distinctive blend of nostalgic elements and forward-looking technology.
This aesthetic pulls design cues from 1950s-1980s sci-fi–think analog dials alongside digital interfaces, neon color palettes, and retro typography reimagined with modern precision.
Several luxury brands I’ve worked with have abandoned sterile minimalism in favor of this style that makes customers feel simultaneously comforted by familiarity yet excited by innovation. Retro-futurism works particularly well for digital products seeking emotional connection, as it taps into collective memory while suggesting technological advancement.
The most effective implementations pair these visual elements with subtle animation that mimics old technology–flickering displays, mechanical transitions–creating a sensory experience that stands out amid digital sameness.
Michelle Garrison, Event Tech and AI Strategist, We & Goliath
Bold Typography And 3D Elements Lead Design Trends
These trends are embracing bold typography, 3D elements, and minimalist layouts with vivid accents. Designers are using large, eye catching fonts and abstract shapes to make a strong visual impact. Interactive 3D designs are becoming more common as AR and VR technologies grow, creating immersive experiences. Minimalism remains popular, but with a focus on clarity and strategic color use. Sustainability is also on the rise, with eco friendly materials and designs conveying environmental responsibility. These trends create visually striking, engaging designs that resonate with modern audiences.
Lauren Hammer, Founder & Lead Organizer, Revive My Spaces
AI And Nostalgia Drive 2025 Design Trends
AI has completely transformed the way we approach graphic design, especially when it comes to creating visuals. Designers are no longer limited by traditional tools or hours spent tweaking every little detail, AI can now generate stunning, high-quality images in seconds based on a simple prompt. Whether it’s building unique patterns, surreal illustrations, or even entire brand concepts, AI is making it easier and faster to bring creative ideas to life. What’s exciting is that it’s not replacing designers–it’s enhancing what we can do, helping us experiment more freely and push visual boundaries we couldn’t have imagined a few years ago.
Heather Vesely, Social Media Specialist, My Supplement Store
Read more personal insights from our roundup experts on our design page.
