This year’s graphic design trends combine the well-forgotten old with the latest in fashion – AI generated images

(First part)

Let’s have a look at the graphic design trends in 2023. Some brand-new trends, recycled retro ideas and directions that have gained popularity in recent years stand out. It is well known that a picture often says a lot more than 1000 words. It’s the same with design, especially at a time when we have less and less patience to read long texts.

 

Many designers not only follow but also get inspired by the modern guidelines in graphic design for their projects. Trends, on the one hand, are a testimony to their time, and on the other hand, they can often provoke a change if consumers do not react to them in the expected way, with purchases. Either way, every element of a company’s marketing strategy is geared toward creating a bridge between the company and its current and future customers.

 

We can’t help but start our review of graphic design trends in 2023 with:

 

AI generated design

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a revolutionary innovation not only in terms of marketing text formats, but also in the field of graphic design. From clear experimentation to heavy use of generative design and algorithmic design, with AI design tools, designers can develop designs that would be impossible to create otherwise. In this case, the fact that technology is constantly improving, is in their favor. This year we already have enough examples of AI created design or AI improved design. Here we should also mention AI generated images, which have become particularly popular recently. They are a product of computer-generated visual technology based on text descriptions and a visual database. The possibilities are limitless and could lead to a radical change in the creative process. “Painting” copyright-free fake portraits, landscapes we could never imagine, or technically perfect visual art are just some of the fruits of this new technology.

 

New fonts

 

It is important not only what you will say and how you will say it, but also how you will visualize it. In this case, you can achieve a grand effect with a small change, if you play with fonts. In 2023, you can create your own font in software programs like Glyphs for example. Or choose something created by someone else, but using it in altogether new context. Go searching with your specific needs in mind and you’re sure to find a quirky font to add an individual touch to your design or a bombastic font to stand out among the competitors.

 

3D graphics

 

Add volume to the design, take advantage of more depth, texture, shadows. In 3D graphics, you can also include motion, which gives them a more realistic look. Tools like Cinema 4D and even the latest updates from Adobe just beg you to start creating your own 3D artwork. And while last year it was all about realistic proportions, now designers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with the help of 3D design. A special part of 3D graphics is abstract 3D. This stream focuses on the creation of abstract and experimental three-dimensional designs. It is inspired by digital sculptures and installations. Designers are experimenting with abstract 3D elements, whether it’s using 3D models, animations or virtual reality.

 

Retro is in fashion

 

On a global scale, we can talk about a renewed interest in design from the 1970s to the beginning of the new millennium. Today’s graphic designers are inspired by old TV shows, movies, websites, advertisements, illustrations and what not. This trend was relevant last year as well. You can catch the influence of – for some the recent past and for others, uncharted territory, in the neon colors, bright illustrations and references to the first video games. Moreover, it also touches on backgrounds, images, templates but with a modern twist. The result is a design that looks both pleasantly familiar and fresh and modern. Some graphic designers, on the other hand, look back at the time when everything was hand-made and with special attention to detail. Therefore, we can also talk about retro minimalism here. It represents a hybrid of the essentials of the old combined with the same of the new. All the extra elements are discarded, and the result is clean, masterfully polished and timeless designs.

 

Real pictures

 

A key element in design is often photography. Every designer knows that it is important to use a photo that fits the message they are trying to convey. But while before a large number of designers resorted to the so-called stock photos, are now increasingly using their own original photography or finding creative ways to incorporate other people’s copyrighted photos in both print materials and online posts, from website header images to social media posts. Outside of traditional product photos, photos of people, nature, and more are now being used that can help tell a story or evoke an emotion. We can expect to see more innovative applications of photography, including 3D imaging, interactive elements, and even augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

 

Motion graphics and animated logos

 

Motion graphics with video or animated elements grab users’ attention and lead to better conversion rates. The unexpected causes the brain to devote more attention to deciphering the message. Thanks to advances in technology, it is now possible to create high-quality moving images that can be used for both indoor and outdoor advertising. Now you can see small billboards practically everywhere. Companies no longer need a million-dollar budget to get their brand on the go.

 

Here we can also add the well-animated logo. This year, more companies choose it, because it creates the feeling that something innovative, up-to-date and unique is being presented to the audience. It can also be a way to tell your audience a story about yourself within a few seconds. Think of the iconic Meta logo. A good motion designer can use various visual effects in a static logo, including transforming the logo, rotating the logo, animating 3D elements of the logo, and more.