What's hot in graphic design right now could be obsolete in six months, but that doesn't mean you can afford to ignore it. Just as in fashion, graphic design trends come and go. Here are a few trends that are in flux right now:
Skeuomorphism: On the Way Out
A skeuomorph is an icon or design that represents its purpose — the little envelope icon that represents email, for instance. When the computer revolution was in its early stages, that icon served a purpose: reminding people what they could do with email. Now, simple text reading "mail" would work just fine, which means that the little envelope is a skeuomorph. The practice is on its way out as designers refocus on elements that serve a clear purpose.
Flat Design: On the Way In
Flat design is what you're left with when you do away with skeuomorphism. It's minimalism on hyperdrive, reducing the user interface down to the bare essentials. Designers are moving away from using all the bells and whistles in their toolboxes and focusing instead on what works. Flat design is about functionality.
Retro Simplicity: On the Way In
Back in the early days of computer-based graphic design, graphics were simple, because that's all the medium could handle. Such designs, reminiscent of early video games, fit in perfectly with the minimalism of flat design.
Emotional Connection: On the Way In
There's never just one trend, and sometimes they're contradictory; graphic design trends are no exception. While minimalist, flat design is hot in user interfaces, graphics that tell a story are being adopting to provide an emotional punch. They're about real people doing real things that everyone can relate to. According to Shutterstock, demand for "real-life" images is up 347 percent.
Craftsmanship: On the Way In
On the surface, craftsmanship — meaning intricately detailed drawings — might seem contradictory to flat design. But both hearken back to the early days of graphic design, when the ability to create intricate images depended entirely on personal on computer power.
It is of utmost importance to stay on top of new trends and developments and to adapt your skills to give your clients what they want. A solid foundation in the elements of good design can give you the skills you need to meet the demands of any new trends.
Source: Briarcliffe College
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