5 design trends to watch in 2025(and what they mean for your brand)

As we step into 2025, design trends are evolving in bold and unexpected ways. The coming year promises a mix of nostalgia, innovation, and a deep connection to both the natural and the futuristic. From AI-driven artistry to retro revivals, these trends offer fresh ways for businesses to stand out in print and beyond.

Here are the five key design trends to watch in 2025 and how they’re transforming everything from Business Cards to Branded Merch. 

1. Luxury ‘70s revival

The 1970s are back, and this time, they’re bringing a luxurious twist. This retro resurgence has been making waves across fashion catwalks, with designers like Gucci and Prada embracing earthy palettes, flared silhouettes, and opulent textures. Now, the influence is trickling into graphic design.

Think bold orange and brown colour palettes layered with post-psychedelia patterns and geometric elements. Whether it’s groovy typography or tactile Special Finishes, this blend of retro charm and bold design makes this trend perfect for creating designs that feel rich and inviting. 

2. Lo-Fi nostalgia

Forget digital perfectionism; 2025 is all about bringing back the imperfections of the past. Lo-Fi (short for low fidelity) design embraces the charm of Xerox machines, camcorder imagery, and analogue photography. Its hallmark is visuals with grainy textures, motion blur, muted colours, and a deliberately “rough around the edges” feel. This aesthetic has been thriving in indie music artwork, retro film posters, and even social media filters that mimic camcorder or Polaroid effects. 

This resurgence of analogue-inspired visuals is now finding its place in branding, with raw, unpolished finishes such as muted paper stocks, photocopied textures, and intentionally imperfect designs. Merchandise often draws on zine culture, incorporating hand-drawn graphics or vintage-style typography. It’s a perfect fit for brands aiming to infuse their identity with a handmade, indie aesthetic.

3. New naturalism

Naturalistic design takes on a fresh face in 2025, blending calming aesthetics with modern minimalism. Earthy tones, natural materials, and Japanese-inspired typography are at the heart of this trend. From boutique hotels with organic textures to skincare packaging that emphasises simplicity and sustainability, this style is becoming a go-to for creating grounded spaces and products.

A professional designer might bring this to life with textured paper, organic linework, and palettes inspired by nature. New naturalism is perfect for brands that want to create a sense of calm and connection.

4. AI artistry

AI-generated imagery brings surreal visuals, intricate patterns, and bold textures into branding and beyond. Tools like Adobe Firefly and DALL-E make it easy to experiment, helping designers create everything from dreamy landscapes to abstract designs that feel fresh and unexpected. Even major brands are embracing this trend—Coca-Cola’s 2024 Christmas ad was entirely AI-generated. 

This trend shines when AI elements are balanced with traditional design principles. Imagine business cards with AI-generated backgrounds paired with bold typography or posters that combine futuristic patterns with organic shapes. Packaging is also evolving, with generative textures creating one-of-a-kind designs that stand out.

AI can empower designers to push boundaries and explore new possibilities in print, branding, and digital media.

5. Cyberpunk comeback

Cyberpunk is having a moment, picking up where 2024’s Y2K and Britpop revivals left off. This trend draws inspiration from sci-fi culture, dystopian narratives, and the tech-boom aesthetics of the late 20th century. 

This influence is everywhere—from fashion runways featuring reflective, metallic fabrics to video game graphics and sci-fi-inspired branding. In print, it could mean a silvery finish or futuristic typography that feels straight out of a dystopian cityscape.

This trend dives headfirst into a futuristic, tech-inspired aesthetic with neon colours, bold 3D elements, and striking fonts. It’s a style that demands attention and works brilliantly for digital campaigns, Stationery, or even bold business card designs.

Bring 2025’s design trends to your brand

MOO Business Services offers expert design support and premium print options tailored to your business. From Business Cards with tactile finishes to Branded Merch inspired by the latest trends, we’ll help your brand stand out in print and beyond.

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