With 2017 coming to close we have started researching the packaging and graphic trends that 2018 will bring. Let’s just say, design is about to take an exciting twist! We have compiled a list of 10 trends that you will probably start seeing a lot of in 2018.
2. Bright Colours
2018 is expected to be built of bold, bright, in your face colour pallets. Graphics and illustrations will be built to attract user attention. Double Exposure Duotones of these bright colours will also be something that will appear quite often. Look out for colours that are playful, bold, cheerful and make people smile. These intense colour pallets also help to evoke strength and pack a serious punch.
2. All in the details
2016 and 2017 found black/white and minimalism to be very on trend. This style created a very formal, professional look. 2018 will flip the book on this and focus on exciting imagery and illustration designed to be remembered. You will see design focusing on small details, another small way for them to stand out.
3. Hand-drawn illustration
One-of-a-kind illustrations, sketches and unique hand drawn artwork continues from 2017 and will grow in 2018 as a huge trend. Combining these sketch type images with photography or formal imagery will also be commonplace. Considering these illustrations are unique, it also adds a lot of personality to design. There’s really no way to just blend in!
4. The unexpected
Styles crossing is perhaps the most unique trend that 2018 will bring. Simply following what’s in and what’s expected won’t be as obvious anymore. You will see a lot of unexpected pairings of illustration, photography, fonts, colours and graphic styles in general. The trend will lean towards surprising consumers and breaking the rules (thoughtfully, of course). Designers are set to have a lot of fun this coming year!
5. Distorted imagery
Corrupted / ruined images will be all over in 2018. Think horror movie posters. Photography will be shown with glitches, abnormalities and distorted. You will see pieces ripped off, removed, scratched, bleed over, etc. Basically, photography will be manipuated to create character, oftentimes with an effect that may seem accident, but clearly is not. All of this as part of creating interest in otherwise flat photography.
6. Creative Typography
This trend has been around for years and is not slowing down. Using typography as a form or shape in itself and letting your imagination run wild with it continues to create unique and pleasing results. Whether it be manipulating, cropping (cropped typography continues to be a huge trend in itself), setting type chaotically, or used in a manner that is unexpected, expect to see creative typography everywhere.
7. Negative Space
The attention paid to negative/positive space will be seen all over in 2018. Using negative space (that is normally seen as “empty”) as a stage for design will be a hot trend. The use of negative space in typography will also be obvious – I mean, why would you settle for plain, black text, when you can create interest and texture by merging it with photography/illustration.
8. Metallic Elements
Hand in hand with the WOW effect created by bold colour, metallic will be huge in 2018. Often combined with other trends such as bold, interesting typography, you will see metallic popping up everywhere next year.
9. Gradients and colour transitions
A la instagram’s most recent rebrand, colourful gradients are starting to show up everywhere. Flat, simple backgrounds are becoming a thing of the past as the design community embarrasses the gradient. Be prepared to see gradients incorporated into all types of design from web to print.
10. Animation Everywhere!
A moving image will always create more interest than a static image will. A long time ago, Flash animations ruled the internet, but with technology upgrades, it died out. Now with the introduction of other types of software you will see a rise in animation again.
2018 is really shaping up to be an exciting time for design! If you’re launching a new brand, packaging, or require any other type of design work, Source Nutraceutical can help you create something unique, on trend and also timeless. Contact us today for more information on all the design services that we offer.
