From AI to retro: A look at bold design directions in 2025

Design is evolving, and 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for creativity. From AI-powered workflows to experimental typography, the latest trends redefine how we communicate visually. Erik Verster, creative director at The Toast believes these transformative ideas are set to revolutionise our industry as they push boundaries, embrace innovation and celebrate the art of storytelling in new, dynamic ways.

01

AI-powered design

AI has transcended its role as a mere tool to become a genuine creative partner. Designers are now using AI to explore ideas, refine visuals and experiment with styles at a pace unimaginable before. This trend combines efficiency with creativity, enabling unique designs perfect for brand presentations and social posts.

AI-driven visuals: blending efficiency with creativity for unique designs.

02

Minimalist maximalism

This trend finds harmony between simplicity and boldness. By pairing clean designs with striking colours and patterns, it creates impactful visuals. Expect to see bold typography and geometric shapes against minimal backdrops, offering both structure and energy.

Minimal elements, bold impact: simplicity meets vibrant design.

03

Maximalist illustration

2025 is the year of intricate and elaborate illustrations. Vibrant, detailed compositions invite viewers to slow down and appreciate the craftsmanship. By combining opulent textures with minimalist layouts, this trend achieves a balance of glamour and simplicity.

Elaborate and intricate: vibrant illustrations that demand attention.

“In 2025, design is no longer just an art form – it’s a story driven by innovation, bold contrasts and fresh narratives.”

04

Pixels: Retro meets modern

Pixelation brings a nostalgic yet tech-savvy vibe to typography and branding. This versatile approach resonates across industries, blending the digital nostalgia of early tech with modern design sensibilities.

Pixel art reborn: a nostalgic nod to early tech with a modern twist.

05

Serious fun

Balancing professionalism with playfulness, this trend redefines what it means to design for work and leisure. Think quirky elements, unexpected layouts and a touch of humour that adds charm to professional projects.

Playful yet professional: rethinking traditional design boundaries.

06

Shape theory

Shapes in 2025 tell stories. Bold patterns and custom-cropped photos create dynamic narratives, blending structure with creative freedom. This style is versatile enough for brand boards, pitch decks and social media visuals.

Shapes with stories: bold patterns and creative cropping at their finest.

07

Textured grains

Amidst the perfection of AI-generated images, textured grains offer raw, edgy aesthetics. These elements add depth and personality, making visuals more tangible and engaging.

Edgy textures: raw and tactile visuals for a memorable impression.

“This year’s design trends are all about breaking boundaries while staying rooted in meaningful expression.”

08

Retro meets modern age

Retro meets modern age This trend fuses vintage elements with sleek contemporary design. By combining retro typography, neon colours and bold patterns, it creates designs that feel both timeless and fresh.

Where vintage meets sleek: the perfect balance of old and new

09

Future in motion

Animation and 3D design are becoming more accessible. Subtle motion gradients and dynamic typography bring visuals to life, adding rhythm and flow to everything from social posts to videos.

Dynamic visuals: subtle animations bringing designs to life.

10

Mixed media and collages

Designers are blending digital art, photography, and hand-drawn elements to create unique and character-rich pieces. This trend thrives on the interplay between digital precision and organic, handmade aesthetics.

Blended artistry: combining digital precision with handcrafted aesthetics.

11

Hyper-realistic 3D presentations

3D design is reaching new heights with hyper-realistic renders. Designers are using these designs for immersive product presentations that feel almost tangible.

Lifelike 3D: visuals so immersive, they leap off the screen.

12

Dynamic gradients

Gradients in motion transform visuals, making them feel alive. This trend is ideal for creating captivating brand identities and social media graphics.

Fluid energy: bold, moving gradients that captivate and excite.

13

Mismatched and bright

This playful trend embraces vibrant contrasts and mismatched fonts to create fun, attention-grabbing designs. It’s all about breaking the rules to add personality and charm.

Quirky and vibrant: a celebration of contrasts and creativity.

14

Experimental typography

Typography becomes an art form in 2025. Designers are reimagining typefaces with distortions, unique forms and creative layouts that tell compelling visual stories.

Typography redefined: letters as art, pushing creative boundaries.

The design world in 2025 offers a blend of innovation and artistry, reminding us that creativity thrives on evolution. Whether it’s leveraging AI as a creative partner, embracing retro-modern fusions or experimenting with textures and typography, these trends invite us to think bigger and bolder. Let’s use these ideas not just to adapt, but to lead and inspire.

BIO
Creative director, Erik Verster blends expertise and vision, delivering cutting-edge design at The Toast.