The world of design is always evolving, and 2025 promises to be a year of bold experimentation, nostalgic revivals, and tech-driven innovation. Our Graphic Designer, Poppy, has shared her insights into the key graphic design trends for 2025…
- AI-powered design
- Minimalist maximalism
- The return of printmaking
- Unconventional colour combinations
- Retro serif typography
Trend 1: AI-powered design
Over the past few years the rise of AI has significantly increased, and become a huge talking point within the many industries, including marketing and graphic design. In 2025, we’ll see AI becoming a powerful collaborator in the creative process, helping us, as designers, conceptualise, refine, and optimise our work.
AI algorithms can help to identify patterns in vast datasets of existing designs, inspiring fresh directions and generating unique visual concepts. Tools like ChatGPT complement this by crafting persuasive headlines and tailored messaging, ensuring that visuals resonate as powerfully as the words accompanying them. Meanwhile, platforms such as MidJourney AI and Adobe Photoshop are streamlining image creation, enhancing consistency and colour accuracy across campaigns to deliver cohesive and impactful results.
Read our LGMC case study to understand how we used AI to create a variety of visual ideas, for the London Gay Men’s Chorus’ Queer Carnival campaign.
Trend 2: Minimalist maximalism
One of my personal favourite graphic design trends for 2025 is the minimalist maximalism trend. I find it particularly interesting because it challenges us to try and strike a delicate balance between complete opposites.
This trend thrives on contrasts, where opposing elements work together harmoniously to captivate the viewer. Bold typography, geometric overlays, and a restricted colour palette are at the heart of this style, delivering impactful visuals that command attention without overwhelming.
Brands like Chromas have embraced this approach, seamlessly blending the elegance of minimalism with the dynamic energy of maximalism to create something that is both refined and memorable.
Trend 3: The return of printmaking
In today’s digital-first world, there’s something really special about the tactile charm of printmaking, and it’s making a big comeback! It’s all about that sense of authenticity and a little hit of nostalgia. Techniques like riso-printing and offset presses bring this imperfect, handcrafted aesthetic to designs that you just don’t get with digital.
This graphic design trend for 2025 is great because you can feel the human touch in the work, which really makes it stand out in such a tech-heavy landscape. Paired with vibrant colours and textured effects that give it this retro feel that somehow clicks with everyone, no matter the generation. It’s like bringing the past into the present in a really creative way.
Trend 4: Unconventional colour combinations
Let’s talk about bold, unexpected colour pairings, they’re seriously grabbing attention right now and for good reason. It’s all about using combos that feel a bit “wrong” at first glance, like mint green with coral red. But I find that those contrasts stick with you, making the designs super memorable. The trick, though, is balance, adding an anchor colour helps tie everything together, so even with all the wildness, the design still feels cohesive and intentional.
Trend 5: Retro serif typography
Retro serif fonts are back in style, hence why I think it will be a key graphic design trend for 2025, as they’re bringing this perfect mix of nostalgia and modern sophistication. They’ve got that timeless appeal, and there’s something so comforting and familiar about them, but at the same time, they add this bold, expressive edge that makes designs stand out. I’m looking forward to seeing how we can use this in our work and play around with this aesthetic.
Here’s what’s clear for the year ahead as a designer:
- AI isn’t just a tool, it’s like a creative partner that can seriously boost both creativity and efficiency
- Don’t be afraid to take risks, whether it’s experimenting with bold colour pairings or leaning into nostalgic print techniques, pushing boundaries is necessary and can pay off
- Make these trends work for your brand by tailoring them in a way that speaks directly to your audience and showcases your unique voice
Found this insightful? Don’t forget to check out our top 2025 marketing trends blog to stay ahead of the curve.