As we approach a new year, fresh, bold and creative graphic design trends are taking the spotlight. Here’s the exciting part: design trends are more accessible than ever for small businesses. If you’re thinking about trying a fresh look, mixing styles or doing something completely unexpected, this is your moment to experiment and find the graphic design trend that aligns with your brand. Great marketing and branding isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about creating an experience that’s as fun for you as it is for your customers.

We’re kicking off this year’s graphic design trends with examples and tips to help you strike the perfect balance between visually appealing and highly effective design. We’ll break down the specific elements of each trend and explain how to incorporate them into your marketing and branding.

Top 2025 graphic design trends:

Take a look at last year’s graphic design trends. Or view our collection of trends predictions over the years, picked by the global community of creatives that work with small businesses every year through VistaPrint.

1. Mismatched and Bright

This graphic design trend, Mismatched and Bright, involves piecing together fonts in different widths, styles and sizes and bright, contrasting colors, much like those ’90s magazine letter cutouts but with a modern and digital twist. This playful trend emphasizes contrast and imperfection, allowing small businesses to experiment with a quirky aesthetic that grabs customers’ attention. And isn’t that what great design should do?

Source: Mismatched and Bright poster design by goopanic via 99designs by Vista

At its core, this graphic design trend plays with visual variety. Designers from 99designs by Vista Eva Hilla and minimalistic.a.t. describe the trend as “bright colors, original fonts with lots of personality, clean branding” and “funky bold wordmarks.”

Key elements of the Mismatched and Bright graphic design trend:

  • Mismatched fonts: Different fonts, varying in size, shape and width.
  • Color contrasts: Bold and unexpected contrasting colors like neon yellows and deep purples.
  • Playful layouts: Asymmetry and irregular spacing for a dynamic and unique look.
  • Funky wordmarks: Wordmarks using bold, quirky typography give your brand a distinct voice.

Key elements of the Nostalgic Networks graphic design trend:

  • Basic geometric shapes: Grids, stars, circles and lines, recalling early digital aesthetics.
  • Simple colors: Primary colors in muted tones, reminiscent of early digital screens.
  • Minimalism: Clean, pared-down layouts that feel nostalgic yet fresh.
  • Retro-tech details: Pixelated fonts, ASCII art (computer art that uses characters to make images) and retro icons inspired by early computer games.

This graphic design trend is perfect for brands looking to tap into tech nostalgia while keeping their visuals sleek and modern. It’s especially suited for skincare and beauty brands, as well as marketing companies and tech startups, and any business that values innovation and authenticity.