A new year full of new trends. But what can we expect in 2021? We see some old elements returning and current trends continuing. We take inspiration from shapes, colors and elements from nature and trade tight again for slightly looser design rules. Because after a year like 2020, we all need more freedom. Get inspired for the new year with Design trends 2021!
Duocolor
Back in 2015, Spotify came out with its signature duotone style in which the artist was represented in just two colors. Today we see this more and more often. "Less is more" so choose color(s) that represent what you stand for.
Example:
Spotify: The signature Spotify style.
Voys:
In 2020, we handled the rebranding of Voys. Together with Voys, we chose two colors that clearly stand out. These colors represent what Voys stands for.
Minimal illustration
Forget stock photos! Illustrations of colored dolls are HOT in 2021. Whether you want to use it for web design or print there is a little bit of everything. And the great thing is that you don't necessarily have to design it yourself because of the (free) online offer that can be found.
Example:
Prosperys: Prosperys' web design used minimal illustrations.
Tip: Check out Undraw.co for free illustrations with color image generation to match your brand identity.
3D design
Flat design is on its way out and giving way to 3D design. The 3D style is full of energy, shape and color. Combine 3D with images, illustrations and 2D designs.
Example:
Solutions: 3D design was used in Solutions' web design.
3D fruit illustration
Typographic chaos
2020 was a year full of chaos and 2021 will reflect that in designs, especially typography. Choas design will conquer 2021.
Example:
Puma: This is my flow
Poster full of chaos
Darkmode
More and more major platforms are offering a dark mode: a dark user interface. As a user, you can choose: the light version or one with a black background. Dark is appreciated. It is calmer for your eyes. It seems to be sustainable: it consumes less power. Moreover, a black background deepens color: everything you put on it intensifies. Until recently, the standard was black on white. But increasingly it is white on black.
Example:
Mastercard dark design
Dark application design
Organic forms
After a year full of restrictions, it is time to go outside the lines. Geometry gives way to free, organic shapes and often go along with free colors. One advantage of organic shapes is that they can be animated well when used online.
Example:
Organic web design podcorn
Vera nutrilon
Inspired by nature
Nature-inspired motifs - leaves, trees and flowers and colors. These calm, beautiful and sustainable designs will let you remember in 2021 what you miss when forced to stay home.
Example:
Herboil
PANTONE Ultimate Gray + Illuminating are the colors of the year 2021
PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Grey and PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating; remember these well because these two colors have been chosen as Pantone Color of the Year 2021. These two independent colors highlight how different elements come together to support each other. Practical and primal but at the same time warming and optimistic, the union of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Grey + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is one of strength and positivity. It is a story of color that encapsulates deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the promise of something sunny and friendly.
Design trends 2021
We are heading into a year where hopefully everything will get going again, where we no longer have to stay inside or think within frameworks. Shapes assert themselves through organic and 3D elements and colors are going to bring us positivity again. Make it a beautiful 2021!
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