Graphic design is more than just laying out information in an aesthetically pleasing manner. It is a chance to communicate with an audience in the most effective and efficient way possible using visual elements. It has become an integral aspect of effective communication and marketing. 

Graphic design is an ever-evolving discipline. As user habits change and technologies are developed, so too does this field grow. If you are untrained in the art of graphic design, it might be difficult to sift through all the trends and fads to figure out which current styles are a good fit for your brand. As such, we have created this list of the coolest graphic design trends that marketers and designers in the field predict will lead the way in 2021. With no further ado, here they are:

1. Minimalism

Minimalism has resurfaced in the last few years as one of the leading trends, set to continue on to 2021 in terms of popularity. It makes use of great amounts of negative space to emphasize specific images and ideas greatly, making this a worthy consideration for many brands. 

This trend has the capacity to break down design to its barest essentials, creating an avenue to communicate directly with consumers and users alike. 

2. Dimmed colours

2020 was the year of neo mint, blue, yellow, and pastels. Many designers predict that 2021 will be tied to classic dimmed colours, like black and white. Other dimmed colour combinations include:

• Sea blue and mint
• Mustard and beige
• Black and lime
• Pink and secret moss
• Black and red scarlet
• Soft green and white

3. Simple or personalised fonts

Content marketing has grown in terms of importance these last few years, and 2021 will be no different for it. One oft-underrated element of that is the font, which can be used to great effect in this field of marketing. As the trend of minimalism grows in popularity, however, so follow fonts. Users are seen to favour typefaces with no angles or serifs, such as Roboto, Open Sans, and Zona Pro. 

Another interesting trend is that users seem to notice similarities in typography more and more, which is why plenty of brands have begun investing in personalised fonts. While this may seem like a complicated endeavour, it can help greatly with brand recognition in the long run. 

4. Gradients

The past three years have seen extensive use in different colours, particularly in gradients. They have proven a fantastic and fun way to express certain ideas through the exploration of different colours. This pattern of gradients in graphic design is seen by many experts to continue on into 2021. 

It is also an excellent way to offset more minimalist layouts that need a little bit more to pop in the eyes of viewers. It is important, however, to choose colours that work together. These choices must match each other in addition to what’s on the page. 

Final thoughts

When it comes to keeping your marketing and graphic design cool and up-to-date, it is important to get ahead of the game and try to predict what will be popular. Not only can this help you stand out, but it can help you ride these trends to greater success. Not only is it good for your brand, but your profits as well. 

If you’re looking for a subscription-based design company that utilises all the best techniques in the field, send us at 55 Knots a message. We provide premium-quality creative work delivered professional designers at better prices.