The graphic design landscape is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of the latest trends is essential for every graphic designer in Toronto and beyond. As we move into 2025, new design styles, technologies, and visual preferences are reshaping the industry.

Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your design career, understanding what to design as a graphic designer this year will help you create visually compelling, in-demand work. Let’s explore the top graphic design trends of 2025, including what’s trending and fading and how to stay ahead.

What’s Hot in 2025?

1. Hyper-Realistic 3D Design

3D elements dominate graphic design, with hyper-realistic textures, lifelike product mockups, and interactive 3D animations leading the way. This trend is powerful in branding, web design, and advertising.

Why it’s trending:

• Advances in design software make 3D rendering more accessible.
• 3D graphics create a more immersive and interactive experience.
• Brands are investing in lifelike visuals for digital and print marketing.

Tip: Incorporate highly detailed 3D typography, product visuals, and layered textures to bring depth and realism to your designs.

2. AI-Integrated Design Workflows

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing graphic design, not by replacing designers but by enhancing creativity and speeding up workflows. In 2025, AI tools will assist with layout generation, colour palette suggestions, and even AI-assisted artwork creation.

Why it’s trending:

• AI speeds up brainstorming and concept creation.
• Tools like Adobe Firefly, Runway ML, and Midjourney allow fast-style experimentation.
• AI helps designers focus on strategy and storytelling rather than repetitive tasks.

Tip: Use AI-powered tools for quick prototyping and creative exploration while maintaining a strong personal touch in final designs.

3. Bold Minimalism with Maximalist Accents

Minimalism is evolving in 2025, blending clean layouts with bold, expressive elements. Expect to see simple designs with a few striking, oversized visuals or bold typography choices.

Why it’s trending:

• The balance between simplicity and eye-catching detail keeps designs fresh.
• Consumers prefer clear messaging with artistic elements that stand out.
• Works well for branding, web design, and editorial layouts.

Tip: Combine negative space with bold colours, abstract typography, and oversized graphics for a dynamic yet structured design.

4. Immersive Motion Graphics and Kinetic Typography

The shift from static imagery to motion-based design will continue in 2025. Kinetic typography, animated UI elements, and micro-interactions transform how brands engage audiences.

Why it’s trending:

• Video and motion design drive higher engagement on social media and websites.
• Moving text and interactive elements create dynamic user experiences.
• Brands are using motion graphics in storytelling, marketing, and branding.

Tip: Incorporate subtle animations, scrolling effects, and dynamic typography to enhance engagement.

5. Retro-futurism and Cyber Aesthetics

A mix of nostalgic 80s and 90s aesthetics with futuristic cyber elements is returning. Neon tones, digital grids, glitch effects, and bold geometric patterns influence web design, branding, and digital content.

Why it’s trending:

• Combines familiar nostalgia with cutting-edge visuals.
• Bright colours and surreal elements stand out in digital marketing.
• It is ideal for tech brands, gaming companies, and experimental branding.

Tip: Experiment with electric blues, neon pinks, digital textures, and glitch effects to create a futuristic but nostalgic look.

What’s Not in 2025?

1. Flat, One-Dimensional Design

While flat design was once a staple in UI/UX and branding, 2025 is all about depth and realism. Designers are moving toward layered, multi-dimensional visuals.

Why it’s out:

• Lacks the engagement and immersive quality of 3D elements.
• Depth and texture add more personality and visual intrigue.

2. Overly Complex Gradients

Gradients remain popular, but excessively intricate gradient effects are fading. Instead, designers favour simple, soft gradient transitions that enhance rather than overwhelm a design.

Why it’s out:

• Overuse of gradients makes designs look outdated and busy.
• Subtle shading and monochromatic transitions feel more modern.

3. Generic Stock Imagery

In 2025, consumers expect authentic, personalized visuals rather than generic stock photos. To stand out, brands are investing in custom photography, illustrations, and AI-generated art.

Why it’s out:

• Stock images lack uniqueness and personal connection.
• AI and custom visuals help brands create a distinct identity.

Tip: Use authentic brand photography and personalized illustrations to enhance brand storytelling.

4. Script Fonts for UI/UX

While elegant script fonts are still used in luxury branding, they are becoming less popular for digital interfaces due to their readability issues. Designers are opting for cleaner, more modern typefaces.

Why it’s out:

• Script fonts can reduce legibility on smaller screens.
• Bold, sans-serif fonts create a more substantial brand presence in digital spaces.

What to Design as a Graphic Designer in 2025

For those wondering what to design as a graphic designer in 2025, focus on:

• Hyper-realistic 3D elements for branding and UI design.
• Motion graphics and animated branding assets for social media and marketing.
• AI-enhanced creative designs for efficiency and experimentation.
• Minimalist layouts with bold typography for a clean but engaging aesthetic.
• Custom branding visuals to replace stock photography.

Whether you’re a graphic designer in Toronto or anywhere in the world, adapting to these trends will keep your work fresh and competitive.

Stay Ahead of the Graphic Design Trends in 2025

Graphic design in 2025 is all about pushing boundaries while maintaining clarity and purpose. By embracing 3D, motion graphics, AI tools, and bold minimalism, designers can create engaging, immersive visuals that resonate with modern audiences.

At the same time, avoiding flat, generic designs, excessive gradients, and outdated fonts will ensure your work remains relevant and impactful.

Looking to Elevate Your Design Work?

At Conte Studios, we stay ahead of the latest graphic design trends for 2025 to deliver cutting-edge solutions. Whether you’re a designer looking for inspiration or a business seeking professional branding, our team is here to help.

Explore our services today and bring your design vision to life.