Graphic design trends for 2024

1. 3D type and bubble text

3D type, particularly in the form of “bubble text” is sure to be a trend we’ll be seeing a lot more of in 2024. As a way to make designs feel playful and joyful, bubble text has been slowly creeping into more and more designs for the past few years and even more so when combined with 3D animation.

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Further reading: 10 font pairing for maximum impact

2. Color clashing

Color clashing is nothing new when it comes to graphic design. And yet, as more brands adapt to meet AA WCAG Web Content Accessibility Guidelines for color contrast, we're expecting to see more clashing and contrasting colors on our screens in 2024 with some bold, vibrant, and unique color palettes.

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3. Curve smoothing

Will 2024 be the year of the squircle (a shape that isn’t totally a circle, not totally a square)? Our reports point to “yes.” Curve smoothing has been on the rise for a while, but particularly over the last year as a way to literally smooth out those harsh edges and create some friendlier looking displays. However, if you intend to make use of curve smoothing in 2024, do proceed with caution — curve smoothing cannot be implemented in a way that is supported by most web browsers just yet.

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4. ‘70s nostalgia

2024 is expected to see a resurgence of popular ‘60s and ‘70s styles in graphic design, including faded color palettes, and retro stripes, checkers, florals, and other funky patterns that scream "the golden years.” With 2023 having been a big year for technological advancements in AI, it’s time to take things back to a simpler time with some inspiration from the past.

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5. Vintage minimalism

In a similar nod to years long gone, vintage minimalism is another style we’re expecting to see a lot more of in 2024 — perhaps again as a way to strip things back and pay homage to a different time. This trend is all about retaining the bare bones of your designs and using vintage color palettes to create simple yet striking designs.

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6. Anti-design

2023 was a year that saw the revival of the goth aesthetic. And while 2024 will be hanging onto some of that darkness and mystery, a rebellious spirit will be visible in the designs themselves by mixing fonts of various weights and sizes, overlapping text, altered spacing, and sideways composition. This style works best for designs intended for events such as festivals and concerts, or creative industry events such as an art gallery opening.

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7. Abstract gradients and color transitions

Gradients are nothing new to graphic design, but in 2024 we’re expecting to see a punchier take on the usual color transitions on the scene. While gradients allow you to add bright and bold colors to your design without overwhelming the viewer, color transitions between two colors may give a more modern feel to your work.

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Further reading: What every brand needs to know to use color effectively

8. Texture

Texture in graphic design can be used to create an incredibly enticing image that connects with the viewer on a deeper level, appealing to their innate desires to touch, taste, and feel. In 2024, we’ll be seeing a whole lot more texture in graphic design, including within typography, for a surrealist vibe.

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9. Geometry

In another back-step towards the mid-century, geometry in design is on the rise with geometric shapes, patterns, and fonts sure to be a big focus in 2024. The principles of geometry can easily be used to create a bold and modern look that is satisfying to the eye.

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10. Illustration and logo mascots

2024 is going to see a big rise in the illustrated logo mascot, especially for those in the food/beverage industry, but also across other industries such as arts and crafts and even tech. Logo mascots are a smart way to make your brand seem less intimidating and more human. We predict that many businesses will be leaning into the advantages of the logo mascot in the coming year as a result.

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