As the year comes to a close, it's time to reflect on the web design trends that have defined 2022. It's been a year full of change, with new trends emerging and evolving, while others have fallen by the wayside. See our roundup of web design trends of 2022 to see how things have changed.
We're seeing a growing trend of people using retro fonts and aesthetics. There is also a bigger focus on homemade/less polished elements. Another trend that is continuing is the push towards ever more interactive, playful interfaces. Users have higher expectations post-Covid for things like loading times and style. Finding a balance between looks and speed is something that designers are still working on.
So without further delay, it's time to take a look at some of the best web design trends that have emerged thus far in 2022.
1. Memphis Design
Memphis is a style of design that takes its inspiration from the 1980s. It has become popular again recently because it offers a departure from the more minimalist, formal styles that have been favored by many in the design community. Plus, all things 80s have been having a moment lately.
Memphis design is all about fun, color, and chaos. It's a departure from the more polished, formal looks that have been popular in recent years. So, fashion and lifestyle brands, food retailers, etc. – go ahead and use it to add personality and playfulness to your site. But accountants and lawyers, maybe pass this style up.
2. Retro Looks
As web design trends continue to evolve, there is a growing popularity for designs inspired by past decades. In particular, the '90s internet aesthetic is making a comeback. This retro style is characterized by simple layouts, bright colors, and bold patterns.
In the '90s, websites weren't known for being chic (to say the least). But there are some elements from that era that you can use today.
This trend is perfect for fashion brands, music retailers, and anyone else who wants to add a bit of fun and personality to their site.
3. Visible Borders
One trend that has been slowly increasing in popularity over the past few years is the use of borders around elements on websites. The purpose of doing so is to make those elements 'pop' and help them stand out more.
Adding a splash of color here and there can really help your website stand out and catch people's attention. Be careful not to go overboard, though - too much color can make your site look busy and cluttered.
The example above is a great example of how a visible grid can help provide a sense of order and cohesion while also allowing the viewer to quickly pick out relevant information.
4. Grainy Gradients
Designers are increasingly experimenting with gradients, using a wider range of colors and more unusual color combinations and textures. This trend is perfect for those who want to add some visual interest to their site without going overboard with patterns or colors.
5. Glassmorphism
We're starting to see a new trend emerge that takes inspiration from 2020's neumorphism trend. Rather than just adding a 'glassy' sheen to elements, it also gives them a 'sparkling' effect. It's still early days yet, but we think there is potential for where else glassy neumorphism could be taken. Designers can use this effect to add some visual interest and uniqueness to their designs. It is important to use this style sparingly as too much can make your site difficult to read.
6. Behavioral Design
Behavioral design is a powerful tool that can be used to influence and change user behavior. By using different design techniques, you can encourage users to stay on your site for longer, or prevent them from leaving.
As website owners seek ways to engage and convert their visitors, behavioral design techniques are becoming increasingly popular. But it's important to use these techniques in a way that feels natural, or you risk driving your users away.
7. Neo-Brutalism
As the world increasingly moves online, a new trend in web design is beginning to emerge: Neo-brutalism. This style takes inspiration from the 'brutalist' architecture of the mid-20th century, characterized by its raw and stripped-back aesthetic. Neo-brutalism celebrates function over form, and is perfect for those who want to create a simple yet impactful website that is easy to navigate and use. This edgy trend is ideal for lifestyle brands such as clubs, fashion retailers, and festivals.
8. Cinemagraphs
More recently cinemagraphs have bridged photography and video, combining the strengths of each into a striking hybrid. So what is a cinemagraph? In essence, a cinemagraph is a gif, but more subtle. It is a high-definition photo with one element of that image moving, such as a flickering candle flame, someone’s hair waving in a breeze or swirling wine in a glass.
The unique aesthetic of cinemagraphs has lead to their popularity in a number of different mediums. In particular, cinemagraphs have been successful in marketing campaigns for numerous large companies, including Coca-Cola and Netflix. Recently, Web designers have started included cinemagraphs in their design as well, and they appear in numerous websites in striking ways.
9. Oversized Typographic Hero Image
This bold and impactful web design trend is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their site. Often times, these gigantic typographic statements will take the place of imagery and can be used for call to action sections or convey brand messaging.
However, a dab will do you on this one! Use it sparingly as it can jumble up your website and make it seem like you are shouting at your visitor.
10. Handmade Graphics
You might say that 2022 became a year about embracing the imperfect and letting the chips fall where they may. While designing pixel perfect images in Illustrator is great, a lot of people are now searching for something a little more homemade and authentic.
As such, there is a growing trend towards more organic, homemade graphics. This is of course in direct contrast to the clean, flat designs of recent year's past. Designers are putting down the mouse and picking up their stylus to create hand-drawn elements and illustrations to add a certain pop of personality to their site.
