Design is ubiquitous; it helps us, it influences us, it excites us. It has the ability to be in our faces, not allowing us to look away. It also guide us, without us being truly aware we are being led. As a result, it’s a wonderful world of constant change, innovation and experimentation.

The Journal is a series where we share the latest themes and devices that have captured our attention and inspired our thinking. So without further ado, here are some of the trends that have caught our eye recently.

Emojis, stickers, scribbles… whatever we call them, they inject friendly, welcoming elements alongside copy and content. It informs at a glance and serves as an extension of the brand.

This trend is expanding on what has become the social norm, making brands and design more playful. Icons have always been used to inform the consumer, and in the continuing age of ‘blink and you’ll miss it’, this is an important aspect of design and marketing.

These added extras can be part of a wider narrative within a brand or marketing campaign: the “Get with the times” series branding utilised the coloured lozenges synonymous with instant messaging to portray the idea of conversation in a familiar, and modern way.

Using illustration as fundamental parts within brand design is the next step up from ‘added extras’. With its limitless styles, it has the potential to make brands friendly, vibrant, familiar… aggressive, imposing and unforgettable.

It also serves to evoke emotion quicker than words can when required, creating a lasting impression.

Bold, vibrant photography is getting plenty of attention lately. The aesthetic suggests a moment in time - pulling on the popularity of apps like TikTok and the immediacy of BeReal.

It gives a more authentic look with nothing to hide, feeling increasingly accessible to the consumer with an added sense of belonging.

Recently this resurgence and idea of “Indie Sleaze” is gaining more traction - an aesthetic that includes things like flash photography. Expect to see more of this.

So there we have it, a few of the latest techniques recently spotted that can elevate design. At best, something to inform, inspire and excite. At worst - it’s some lovely things to look at and have opinions on. We all need that once in a while don’t we?
Until next time!