Top 10 graphic design trends we expect to see in 2019

The world of graphic design never sleeps. As we move into 2019, here are 10 trends we expect to see building. Keep this article until this time next year to see if I was right about any of them. Oh, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

1 – Busting stereotypes

2018 was the year where so many stereotypes were broken, in news, culture, sport and more. 2019 will be the year where stereotypes get smashed in graphic design. When it comes to representing gender, race or anything else, expect to see a different perspective.

2 – Keep it simple

We’re confronted by more and more graphic design every day. In 2019, cut through the noise by going back to basics. A simple design, executed powerfully, communicates your message successfully.

3 – Nostalgia returns

Rather than searching for the next new thing, expect to see graphic designers recreating styles we know from the past. How about an Art Deco revival as we near the 2020s?

4 – Colour transitions, gradients and duotone

Sophisticated screens on our devices allow designers to play with colour more than ever before. In 2018, colour gradients were everywhere (think Sky logo). Expect that to continue.

5 – Throw away the template

Our eyes are conditioned to websites all laid out the same way, because they’re designed using the same templates. In 2019, expect brands to aim for distinctiveness by laying out their sites in different, less rigid ways.

6 – The GIF that keeps on GIFfing

GIFs are short, engaging, shareable. Brands are starting to realise their power. If you’re a graphic designer in 2019, you’ll probably be making a fair few of them.

7 – Time to do more with typography

In recent years, when brands have changed their typography on their logos, it’s been a move towards simplicity. Google, Spotify, the Premier League, all gone with very functional, classic designs. In 2019, will a big brand have the courage to something bold and disruptive with their lettering?

8 – Tech removes our limits

Every year, technology means graphic designers are capable of more than ever before. The only limits lie in our imagination. Whether it’s ultra-real 3D, stunning isometric designs or sumptuous colour transitions, it’s all there for designers and their clients.

9 – Rage against the machine

On the other hand, maybe 2019 will be the year we go back to the way things used to be. Wouldn’t it be great to see more hand-drawn illustration in design in 2019? What a way to grab attention.

10 – Everybody needs a graphic designer

One thing I hope happens in 2019 is that more entrepreneurs realise what great graphic design can do for their business. At The Futures, we offer unlimited graphic design, ready for you with Next Day Delivery, for a small monthly subscription. Try it and see how it helps your business grow.

I hope you enjoyed my predictions. On February 27th, I’m going to be taking part in a panel discussion at International Confex at London’s Olympia. It’s happening between 14:50 and 15:30 in the Marcomms Theatre. If you’re going, make sure you come and say hi. I’d love to hear what you think about the graphic design industry in 2019.

William Villalobos is the founder of The Futures, an unlimited graphic design company whose prime objective is to help business owners, entrepreneurs and marketers automate their graphic design needs. Connect with William on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.