With 2019’s graphic design influences, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d simultaneously been taken back to the 1980’s whilst also leaping headlong into the not-so distant future. This is the year of futurism, the bright, the bold and the downright attention grabbing in a nod to the past, whilst bringing things back to the here and now.

Bright and Bold for 2019

Let’s start with colours. The common thread here is electric, neon, bright, intense and attention grabbing. Embrace the bold, yet mismatched colour palette that screams daring and confident and absolutely not afraid to stand out from the crowd.

Working perfectly with this confident new colour palette are duotones. The technique of using one contrasting colour halftone with another colour halftone, has been embraced by the likes of Spotify and Adidas with startling effect. In crowded markets, where brands are jostling to prove their cool credentials, duotone is an effective way to achieve status.

Gradients and colour transitions complement this trend for vivid colour – so it’s no surprise that where you find gradients being put to work, duotone will also be playing a key part too.

It’s not just colour that is finding its feet this year. Strong typography is also stepping into the limelight. Look to fonts that are designed to stand out and show your brand’s confident and daring side. Whilst typography might have the starring role, other graphical elements such as pattern and texture will help to create interest.

Future and Past combine

Whilst futurism is key for graphic design this year, there is also plenty of reference to times of old. For some time, we’ve been in danger of graphic design stepping into the bland territory. So now we’re seeing an old-style serif font revival in a bid to reclaim character and personality. Expect subtle contrast, curved strokes, and angled serifs. This is all about elegance, combining a blend of classic and contemporary.

Art deco is making somewhat of a comeback in response to more rustic designs that have dominated over the past few years. The line-work, symmetry and metallics all create a look of opulence and luxury.

Why stock won’t cut it

Did you know that custom illustrations will convert 7 times better than any stock photography? Despite an increase in good quality photo libraries, stock imagery still tends to stick out like a sore thumb.

This year ditch the stock library for delicate and elegant bespoke illustrations. Intricate designs will help to strike that balance between maximalism and simplicity.

This is the moment for motion

With predictions that this will be the year that more brands adopt motion graphic design and animation than ever before, you’ll need to nail down the style that makes your brand you. Feeling experimental? Look to AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality) to bring your brand to life in ways that your customers won’t have experienced.

Ready to embark on a new adventure with your brand? Talk to us about how we can help you to embrace this year’s trends and make them work for your business.