Here it is—the post where we break down the top graphic design trends for 2020. This is one of our most popular articles, drawing thousands of visitors throughout the year. Think 80s vibes, chrome, glitch effects… Get ready, because there’s a lot to cover!
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Whether you’re a graphic designer, a marketing specialist, or running a business—big or small—this post is your go-to reference for the graphic design trends set to define 2020. Use it as inspiration for your next project.
Trends evolve: check out the latest graphic design trends for 2026 to inspire your next brand.
This year, we’ve packed even more into our annual trends roundup—more images, more content. The post is organized by trend, each with a clear explanation, plus three real-world projects that showcase the trend in action and a link to explore further.
Heads up: this is a deep dive, loaded with visuals. MASSIVE POST ALERT!
This is our third year publishing a graphic design trends report. Last year’s edition for 2019 drew an incredible 72,000 visits, making it our blog’s top post. This year, we’re aiming even higher and hoping to top last year’s record.
WOW! The new 2021 graphic design trends post is live!!!
Related posts: Web Design Trends 2020 – Email Marketing Trends 2020 – Best Web Designs 2019–2020 – Best Graphic Designs 2019–2020
Introductions out of the way, snacks handed out—let’s get started!
Graphic Design Trends 2020
1. Chrome, Retro, 80s Aesthetic, Neon Colors
Nostalgia & Miami nights. Retro is back. Expect to see a surge in retro-inspired typefaces and neon colors throughout 2020.
Many design and web studios are already embracing this throwback look.
Chrome effects will also add a cool, fresh edge to any graphic design project this year.
Graphic design projects featuring this trend
The Sonnyfive typeface by Sándor
This graphic, designed to promote Sándor’s red typeface, is paired with bold, unmistakably 80s-inspired illustrations. The combination creates a striking, high-energy visual.
If you want to give your design work a retro, 80s twist, this is the perfect typeface to use. I’m seriously impressed.
Grammari Packaging by Mohamed Moustapha
This packaging series by Mohamed showcases a distinctly 80s visual language—just look at the typefaces and color palette.
NeoWave by James White
This series is a perfect showcase for neon colors and chrome effects—a textbook example of how to use this trend in 2020.
Where you’ll see this trend
This trend will dominate web design and poster design, but you’ll also see it in corporate branding for projects that call for it.
- Web design
- Posters
- Corporate identity
- Landing pages
- Packaging
- Business cards
How to use this trend
- Pay close attention to your choice of typeface—it can make or break the design
- Experiment with different color palettes and combinations
- For print, explore metallic finishes for chrome effects and neon inks
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2. Contrasting Print Textures
Mixing different textures in print is set to be another breakout trend in graphic design for 2020.
Traditionally, when designing a full branding suite, you’d choose one paper stock and use it across all materials for consistency.
But more and more studios are now mixing textures across printed materials. It’s a bold move (and not easy to pull off), but when done right, it’s masterful.
Embossed, textured, metallic papers—anything goes. The only rule: keep the overall look harmonious.
Graphic design projects featuring this trend
Forena spa by byHouse Studio & Josiane Cossette
This brand identity by byHouse Studio & Josiane Cossette features a mix of textures, embossing, and metallics.
A perfect example of this trend in action for 2020.
Nuage by Anagrama
Designed by Anagrama—one of the world’s leading design studios—this project combines metallic finishes, embossing, and a variety of materials.
The packaging features a chrome metallic sticker, a seal, gold foil wrapping, and the plastic itself. The business cards use a different texture and metallic beads to tie them visually to the packaging.
Fanabela by Anagrama
Another standout project by Anagrama—these guys are masters at this.
For example, the label uses two materials: metallic on the back, textured green paper on the front.
The packaging features yet another texture, paired with embossed gold foil.
The bags show even more contrast—silk handles, textured paper, gold metallic details.
Envelopes and letterhead use a different textured paper, but metallic accents keep the whole suite visually cohesive.
Where you’ll see this trend
You’ll mostly find this trend in comprehensive brand identity projects:
- Business cards
- Labels
- Packaging
- Envelopes
- Bags
- Corporate documents
How to use this trend
- Create a graphic element that visually ties all the pieces together
- Be careful not to overload your design with too many textures—the line between elegant and tacky is thin
- Make semi-realistic renders before going to print, or invest in a print proof before the final run
- Use chrome, metallics, and textured papers
Check out our post on the best graphic design courses 2019–2020.
3. 3D Objects & Glossy Colors
3D artists have been making a huge impact on graphic design for some time now. The use of 3D objects and glossy colors is set to be a defining trend in 2020.
Think bold color explosions and 3D modeling. If you want your visuals to stand out and make an impact, this is the formula.
This trend is especially prominent in digital platforms, where 3D creations can truly come to life.
If you’re interested in building next-gen websites, try experimenting with the Three.js library—it lets you integrate 3D models directly in the browser and create interactive experiences.
The results are visually stunning and irresistibly engaging—almost addictive to look at.
Graphic design projects featuring this trend
Kiss my Airs by Lukas Vojir
Here, 3D objects are used to advertise Nike Air. The result is breathtaking—a world full of objects, textures, physics… Absolutely spectacular.
Möbelix by Serial Cut
This is a phenomenal ad campaign. To promote new prices at Möbelix, 3D furniture was created, with old prices sliding away to reveal discounts.
When design and messaging are perfectly aligned and executed, the result is outstanding.
Monster Prom by Marcurtasun
Marcurtasun is a Barcelona-based freelance 3D and animation specialist whose work I follow closely. This project is a great example of detailed 3D objects—textures, lighting, and more. A textbook application of this trend.
Where you’ll see this trend
Expect to see this trend in:
- Digital media and websites
- Advertising videos
- Posters
How to use this trend
- Use glossy colors
- Experiment with textures—plastic, rubber, fabric, metallics, and more. Your imagination is the only limit
- Add extra flair by animating your 3D objects
- On websites, use Three.js to integrate models and create eye-catching interactive experiences
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4. Semi-Realistic Textured Backgrounds
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