2018 promises to be another exciting year in the world of website and graphic design, with some original and innovative trends. In this article, we present our ideas regarding those that are most likely to capture the imagination of web and graphic designers over the course of the year.
- Custom Graphics
In the past, the world of digital media has tended to rely on the vast array of stock imagery that is available on the internet at relatively little cost. This has resulted in a comparative underuse of dedicated, custom graphics that are tailored to the specific project. Custom imagery, logos and art work can give a brand its own individual identity in a way that stock imagery cannot and we believe that the skills of the graphic designer will be called upon much more frequently during the course of 2018.
- Animation
Animation, in the shape of Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) and Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) are becoming increasingly popular as a means of communicating website content in a more meaningful and attractive way to its visitors and adding extra appeal. This trend is likely to continue, with animation of advertisements, email communications, logos, icons and other website content helping to engage web users in a more appealing way.
- Gradients
Gradients have been used in web design for some time now and, in recent years, have lost a certain degree of popularity amongst designers. This trend may well be reversing now as more and more subtle gradients, which can seamlessly combine with flat elements, vector illustrations and imagery, are being employed. Gradients, whether in a radial or linear form, can improve the overall attractiveness of a website (and its brand) by adding greater depth and colour in addition to some subtle visual effects and we believe that they will have a major role to play in website and graphic design in 2018.
- Shadows and Depth
Increasing the depth of a design through the use of shadows is another trending technique. In a similar way to gradients, the use of shadows lost popularity in recent times, with designers seemingly preferring to concentrate on less complex, two dimensional designs. Shadows, whether long, large, soft or coloured, can provide an added dimension by giving subtle depth to the visual experience of a flat design, making website icons, illustrations and other content, such as calls to action offer a more appealing and enticing presentation of a brand. Their use is likely to increase and become more widespread in graphic and website design over the course of the year.
- Typography
In 2018, the trend, in terms of typography, is likely to place greater emphasis on the effectiveness of bigger and bold type. Dominant headlines using extra large, sans serif font sizes and bigger and older information delivery is likely to continue to dominate the typography in graphic and website design. The coming year is also likely to mark the return of the much maligned serif font, used either on its own or in combination with sans serif typography, as an acceptable effect that does not damage the synchronicity of the design. More decorative, custom made fonts and experimental type are also likely to make a greater impact on graphic and website design, offering a more creative way of showcasing a brand.
Trends in graphic and website design have evolved consistently over the years. 2018 promises to continue that process by offering designers a range of innovative ideas to increase the appeal, individuality and originality of their designs.