Design tastes are ever changing and it's important to keep up to date with what's in. We compiled a list of 10 graphic design trends you need to keep an eye on as we head into 2021.

1. Street art styles vernacular language

Traditional street art is a means of expression for the marginalised and a symbol of protest against inequality. The new street art movement has moved away from this ideology, becoming more focused on design, and using the vernacular language of public art to push forward the idea that anything can be art.

2. Pop-up books

The pop-up book has made an emphatic comeback and is now a ubiquitous design feature. The paper engineering is the backbone of pop-up books. It is a simple yet effective technique that allows for an increase in physical size and an element of surprise.

3. Tactile typography

Tactile information can be provided by either physical objects, such as Braille signs, or by using visual interfaces that can be touched. Tactile typefaces can be produced by varying the size, spacing, sharpness or even using different materials to create contrast.

4. Recycled fashion

Fashion has been recycled for centuries. Consider the origins of the shirt, for example: a late Roman tunic (chiton) was cut in half and sewn up the sides, producing the first shirt.

The modern production of recycled fashion requires the use of discarded clothing and other textile waste (from both the fashion and textile industry) and aims to have a positive impact on the environment and on society.

5. Joggers

Joggers are the most popular bottoms in the fashion world; they are the most versatile garment you can wear for both sports and leisure. Minimalist design and natural colours are the hallmarks of joggers.

6. Engraved illustration

Illustrated engravings play a major visual role in the communication of fashion. The technique of etching onto a metal plate is used to create the sharp lines of the illustration.

7. Matching shoe and handbags

The portable handbag has become an essential element of the urban lifestyle. The combination of a small handbag and a high-heeled shoe is one of the most popular trends in fashion today.

8. Micro-skin textiles

Micro-skin is an ultra-thin, micro-porous, engineered textile to provide the wearer with a body-hugging skin-like experience. It is a garment-like surface that is soft to the touch, lighter than air and comfortable, with a superior moisture-regulating capability.

9. Intelligent fabric

Intelligent fabric is a high-end fabric that responds to the body's needs and can be regenerated. For example, it can heat up and cool down.

10. Experiential shopping

Shopping has become an experience. It is about more than just seeing and purchasing a product. The first experience is the approach. Attractive shop-fronts are used to draw attention to a brand. Inside, interactive technology and installations engage customers.

It's important to stay up to date with the latest trends and adapt your product. A key part of this strategy is having a good professional designer. Good designers can provide a lot of insight into what works and what doesn’t and what you should or shouldn’t do.

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