UI design trends 2021

The past year was good for the tech industry: new trends, new tools in developing, fresh services and market decisions. We have witnessed a new wave of users that were born in the  real world and live in the digital. Based on our research, experience and market observations, we have selected 12 UI design trends to pay attention to in 2021. Long story short, here is the list: 

1. Dark Mode

2. 3D illustration

3. Real World Photos

4. Creative data visualization

5. Advanced micro interactions

6. Complex typography

7. Functional minimalism

8. Glass morphism

9. Vivid Blurred background

10. Analog inspiration

11. Unexpected angles

12. VR and AR immersion

Let’s take a closer look at these trends.

Dark Mode

One of the main trends is the dark theme. This trend has become an indispensable feature and its popularity will continue into 2021. The main reasons for its popularity:

? more contrast design elements

? allows you to save battery power (in the case of using OLED / AMOLED screens)

? relieves eye strain 

Most services are based on a light palette design, so a contrast transition to a dark theme seems like something completely new and fresh.

2. 3D-Illustration

The popularity of 3D is growing because current design frameworks can significantly reduce the load on the page, making it easier for UI designers to create objects in 3D with new handy tools.

3D illustrations help to blur out the boundaries between the virtual space and the real world, attract customers attention and create the feeling of a premium product.

3. Real Photos

Interfaces are now filled with illustrations and 3D graphics, but images of real people and objects can be just as effective, as more complex graphics.

At the same time, users are tired of the same type of stock photos, designers need to choose original photos that can find a greater emotional response from users.

4. Creative data visualization

Today we need to look for new ways to visualize data. Tables and lists already look outdated and often spoil the general look of the page. Using unique graphics, animations and unusual colors will make your page more interesting for users.

5. Advanced micro interactions

Clicking on a button — this is interaction. The purpose of this tool is to create a sense of tactile satisfaction. Interactions will become more complex in 2021. Designers need to enhance the experience of interaction with extreme animations and page transitions such as sudden enlargements or complete reshuffling of the page layout.

6. Complex typography

Minimalism and simple fonts are losing their popularity. The font has become consistent and the same regardless of the site or application, so designers tend to experiment.

Here are a few ways to add complexity and personalize your font on your website:

? adding wavy lines;

? size, changing from word to word;

? imposition of a translucent font on an opaque one;

? adding italics and boldness.

It's not enough to choose one typeface - you need to find a specific font style that matches the overall design of the site or application.

7. Functional minimalism

The principle of minimalism does not lose its relevance. To avoid information noise, more and more websites and mobile applications reduce the number of elements of their interfaces to a minimum. This encourages UI designers to be selective: keep the interface simple but still functional.

Thus, minimalism is now not just a decoration, but an integral part of the user experience.

8. Glass morphism

Glass morphism is a current trend in the user interface, but with its own history. It was first introduced in Windows Vista, then in iOS7, and is now back in an updated form in the macOS Big Sur.

Glass morphism is characterized by:

? transparency (frosted glass effect using background blur)

? multi-layered approach with objects floating in space

? bright colors that emphasize blurry transparency

? thin light border on semi-transparent objects.

9. Vivid Blurred background

The trend has similarities to glass morphism, so we put them next to each other. Bright and contrasting colors create a magical, airy atmosphere, allow you to remember the product at the level of emotion. In combination with a blurred background, this solution looks very friendly and cozy.

In addition, the blurred background draws attention to the main elements of the interface.

10. Analog Inspiration

Now we see how designers go against traditional minimalism and are inspired by the world of analog design, the real world and the world around us:

? textures of paper and cardboard

? collages

? sepia

? retro typography and button designs.

Apps and products with this retro style feel familiar, understandable, and user-friendly.

11. Unexpected angles

In 2021, designers are using unusual angles. Unexpected corners look interesting and make the app design even more dynamic.

12. VR and AR immersion

Home isolation during Covid-19 has fueled the development of AR and VR solutions. Designers create apps that make you feel like you are inside the app, surrounded by helpful background information and gamified user experience. Using such apps and services is expected to feel like an immersive game that engages you and creates a positive user experience.

Thank you.