Google, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest know it. What do they know? That effective use of graphic design helps their brand image be more memorable without being distracting. The elaborate designs of the past few years have given way to flat images and simpler designs that work well on mobile devices. Knowing which trends to follow can help give your corporate and brand messaging a modern feel.
Graphic design is a dynamic field. Today’s fonts and images are quickly stale. Yet there are several trends that are gaining visibility and appeal, and are worth considering.
Five trends that having staying power are:
- flat images,
- thick fonts that look almost handwritten,
- shades of a single color,
- blended gradients between image and text, and
- the stylized use of airbrushing to accentuate graphics.
What can these trends mean for your business brand? Creatively incorporate trending graphic design and you can give your brand a more personal feel.
The best way to approach building your brand with the latest in graphic design options is to begin with the end in mind. What is the impression you want your brand to have on a target audience? If it is a to-the-point impact, then use flat images and shades of a single color as your scheme. If you want your brand to get closer to customers, become part of their world, then choose the handwritten font look to be more personal. If your brand is focused on expanding the customers’ views, then using liquid and smoke or objects intersecting text to rouse those feelings.
Remember when it comes to any kind of trends, some will have staying power and others will be forgotten. It’s best to check on what top companies are doing and adjust your approach to trends that appeal to you and fit with your brand image. Ultimately, use your best judgment. Graphic design trends will only make your brand as pretty as a picture, if they reflect your message.