MDS Trends ’25: Graphic Design’s Big Ideas
In a twisted game of tug-of-war, 2025 explores the unknown territory between the rapid advancements of AI and the warmth of nostalgia and human touch, funneling into a great divide for the world of design.
As we venture further into 2025, we have accumulated our findings and personal predictions for Graphic Design that will set the precedent for trends throughout the rest of the year.
EVOLUTION OF 3D
Traditionally, graphic design is seen as a flat, 2D medium that can be amplified by layers, drop shadows, and other effects to create visual depth. But 3D visualization has become a powerful, dynamic tool that enables brands to create new worlds of immersive, interactive experiences. We’ve already been spectators to the integration of 3D in the world of design and how it can enhance content across all forms including industrial, animation, digital marketing, and more.
As 3D programs become more accessible, we are seeing a massive shift as brands utilize 3D assets across all aspects of their marketing. With its ability to amplify brand identity and elevate visual communication, 3D design is expected to play a key part in the evolution of design trends, offering innovative solutions to captivate audiences with visual styles never seen before.
NEW-STALGIA
No doubt about it, nostalgia's probably the most dominant force in todays marketing landscape. In recent years, we’ve seen this category explode across many forms of design. Last year, we observed a lean into the world we like to call “Millennial kitsch,” a bucket characterized by holographic gradients, vivid neons, and an upsurge of Y2K.
Following another year of development, this nostalgia chrysalis has grown and transformed, influencing design sectors like packaging, social media, brand campaigns, and more. Notable examples include Taco Bell’s nationwide “Decades” campaign and a packaging refresh that puts the mountains back in Mountain Dew. The undeniable impact of this new-stalgia pulls at our heart strings and resonates with audiences by reflecting on our unique histories, finding comfort in uncertain times, and celebrating the cherished memories we all share.
IMPERFECTLY WHOLE
The reign of anti-branding has already seen growth per the invasion of “blanding,” the flat, sans serif and two color wave of rebrands, but is becoming more discernible with the rise of generative AI. Brands who have gone through minimalist rebranding are now finding ways to inject personalities back into their identity. Whether through handwritten typography, purposeful errors, or textured elements that convey wear and tear, brands are seeking playful ways to position themselves as distinctly human.
Our forecast is calling for strong storms as this trend will continue to rain down. Flawed is the new “premium,” and reflects a stronger emotional connection with consumers riding on the same wavelength, seeking sincerity and authenticity in a time of turmoil. The anti-consumption movement of younger generations is driving us towards more unique, higher quality products made to last—echoing the increasing popularity of shopping small businesses.
ABOMINABLE, ABIDING INTELLIGENCE
The future can be difficult to predict, but in 2025 we estimate that the use of AI and its counterparts will continue to develop into something more comprehensible. This pivotal moment in design has more and more brands curious to understand what this technology can do for them.
Even with big-budget brands like Coca-Cola, generative AI has demonstrated clear limitations—often an uncanny valley, unnatural feeling that's not always clear to the naked eye. Rather than treating AI as the replacement of human creativity, we predict its continuous integration in the design scene as a tool for conceptual and early-development work. While the debate surrounding AI remains contentious, there is no doubt its presence is permanent.
WHO ARE THESE COLLABS EVEN FOR?
Have you ever yearned for a handbag that looks like a ketchup packet? Maybe a lip ring that looks like dripping cheese has come to you in a dream and now it’s all you can think about? Then do we have the right trend for you! Over the past year, we’ve noticed some of the weirdest, wackiest brand collaborations that would probably give a Victorian child a heart attack. But what is the purpose of these bizarre partnerships?
The obvious can be stated that these are not being made by demand, but rather that the more obscure the collab, the more exposure and word-of-mouth will spread and entice a sense of FOMO, as these collaborations are typically limited-time offers. This also gives brands the ability to reach more niche audiences that they otherwise couldn’t before, pulling in those with a desire for one-of-a-kind products, pure novelty, or the appetite to try something new.
Mertz Design is constantly auditing trends, refining our expertise, pushing boundaries, and ensuring our designs are innovative in the ever-evolving landscape of design.
Download our full 2025 Design Trends Report for all the juicy details on what’s coming next in the worlds of graphic and industrial design—because trust us, you won’t want to miss it!
Kai Denton
Jr Graphic Designer
