Designer’s Next: A Deep Dive Into Trends.

Today’s read is a special one, once a month we go further, even deeper in stories; starting with today’s topics. We are entering the final few months of 2023; a lot has happened. From the rise of X, to the comeback of minimalism, this year was full of innovations and rising trends. Let’s get into what got me started in the first place, "X”.

No more the blue bird, X will be the all-in-one app.

In April, the Twitter app that we had all grown accustomed to underwent a significant transformation, thanks to Elon Musk, who spearheaded its rebranding into X. The vision he presented was an enticing one - an "all-in-one" app designed to seamlessly integrate various media formats, facilitate communication with everyone, and eradicate the presence of bots. It sounded like the ideal solution for a more streamlined and enjoyable Twitter experience.

However, as the dust settled on this grand rebranding endeavor, it became evident that it wasn't all smooth sailing. Controversy quickly erupted as users began to analyze the changes. Many were disheartened by the removal of beloved features that had become an integral part of their Twitter interactions. These alterations, rather than being seen as enhancements, were viewed as drawbacks, leaving users feeling somewhat betrayed by the transformation.

Furthermore, the rebranding itself came under fire for being unoriginal and aesthetically unpleasing. Instead of a fresh and innovative new look, the X app felt like a step backward, lacking the creative flair that one might have expected from such a high-profile makeover. This lackluster rebranding only fueled discontent among users.

In response to these changes, the Twitter community didn't hold back. Social media platforms were inundated with user reactions, many of which were transformed into memes. These memes served as a humorous but poignant commentary on the mixed emotions surrounding the new X app. They showcased the user base's ability to adapt and find humor in the face of disappointment, while also highlighting the genuine concerns that had arisen from these alterations.

X is the place for sales, this is how I did it.

Even with the controversies of X, there is a lot of potential. To connect for sure but also to get an audience that cares about what you are but mostly what you do, to me it was designing. After failing 5 different side hustles, I learned Notion; a noting taking app that is highly customizable, people use it for all kinds of work. That is why there is a high demand for templates, so I made them. Easier said than done…

When I started in June, I really had no idea what this community would bring me, I started a new account and went on with the wind. The account that I created was specific to my niche, which helped the algorithm to recommend me in these smaller communities. You grow because you follow, but you need to stand out, made myself unique by creating a vibrant theme about my profile. This would help me stand out among all the other creators that are trying to achieve the same goal: money.

The first week was rough, seeing 0 replies and likes was not motivating at all. But when more contacts were made, it became clearer what did well, and what didn’t work. When growing on such a platform, finding the solutions to these questions is key. On X people are growing of some magic ways, flexing with numbers and sales really can be motivating but also counter act because I am not really there yet.

As time went on, I saw growth on X, as well as my store page, It is all about creating a workflow that works and sells, to me teasing what I am working on each day, creating vibrant visual about it, and launching products on ProductHunt really helped my numbers.

Right now, i am sitting at 230 sales in three months with over 900 views. A successful launch can do 50 sales a week, which is really rewarding after working on it each day. I would say it is a fun process, a good one to learn and a great journey for small entrepreneurs having that dream of selling products.

“If you’re not branding yourself, you can be sure others do it for you.”

Let's take a closer look at my branding strategy, which exemplifies the power of understanding color psychology. Color selection is not arbitrary; it's a science that can significantly impact how your audience perceives your brand. For instance, I delved into color psychology studies to comprehend the emotional and psychological responses that different colors evoke. This research allowed me to carefully choose colors that resonate with my target audience and make my content truly captivating.

The vibrant green I incorporated into my branding, for instance, isn't just visually striking; it's associated with growth, freshness, and positivity. This color choice not only grabs attention but also creates a positive impression. Similarly, the enticing pink I use sparks curiosity and excitement, making viewers more inclined to click and engage with my content. Leveraging color psychology in this manner can be a game-changer in capturing and retaining your audience's attention.

Consistency is key across various platforms. It's not enough to have an eye-catching color palette; you must ensure that your branding remains consistent everywhere you engage with your audience. Whether it's Twitter, X, or any other platform, maintaining a cohesive and uniform visual identity is crucial. This consistency builds trust and recognition among your audience, making it easier for them to identify your content amidst the noise of social media.

To further illustrate the significance of distinctiveness in branding, let's consider iconic examples like Adidas and McDonald's. Adidas is instantly recognizable due to its three distinctive stripes, a symbol of athletic excellence and performance. Similarly, the golden 'M' arches in the sky represent McDonald's worldwide, emphasizing the brand's ubiquity and quality.

These examples showcase that successful branding isn't just about choosing attractive colors; it's about creating a unique and memorable identity that stands out in the minds of consumers. By leveraging color psychology, maintaining consistency, and drawing inspiration from iconic brands, you can craft a branding strategy that not only captures your audience's attention but also ensures long-term recognition and success for your business.

2023 was full of… emptiness?

Uncovering the Power of TikTok's Algorithm

This year was another year of amazing design innovations and news, a lot of populair brands rebranded to more minimalistic and sometimes dull designs. Each company wants a piece of the cake once a new trend is booming, the latest and most recognizable one is short term content and vertical video. TikTok changed the game with its approach on a short format, the kids love it so the audience is wide.

YouTube has shorts, Instagram has Reels and even Twitter has scrollable video’s… TikTok's undeniable appeal begins with its signature short-form content format, with videos typically lasting between 15 to 60 seconds. This brevity caters to our brain's innate preference for quick, easily digestible information. Psychologically, our minds crave instant gratification, and TikTok delivers by offering an endless stream of bite-sized entertainment.

Furthermore, TikTok's algorithm leverages machine learning to curate personalized feeds. By tailoring content to individual preferences and past interactions, the platform keeps users engaged. This personal touch feeds into the addictive cycle, as users find themselves irresistibly drawn into a bottomless well of tailored, attention-grabbing content.

Democratization of Creativity:

Another core aspect of TikTok's magnetism is its empowerment of the masses through accessible creation tools. With an array of user-friendly features, filters, and effects, TikTok has become the playground of digital creativity. This democratization of content creation is especially appealing to Gen Z, who place a premium on authenticity and self-expression.

TikTok's user-generated content (UGC) ecosystem flourishes through participatory challenges and trends. This participatory culture fosters a sense of community and belonging among users. As analytics reveal, this social interaction isn't just a retention strategy; it's the glue that binds users to the platform and to fellow creators.

The Dominance of Challenges and Trends:

A critical dimension of TikTok's success is the role played by challenges and trends in driving user-generated content and engagement. Challenges, often initiated by users or brands, encourage others to create their unique interpretations. This trend-chasing behavior isn't merely about mimicry; it's about expression and connection. Users relate to trending content and find camaraderie in participating, building a deeper attachment to the platform.

Back to simple

2023 was amazing for design trends, from vintage to maximalism and from less is more to gothic, this year was packed with experimentation for brands, designers and identities. Each having a nice appeal to the eye, renovating and improving what worked in the past is what moves design forward.

Vintage Minimalism: An Evolution of Elegance

In today's fast-paced world, where trends seem to come and go in the blink of an eye, one aesthetic stands out for its timeless elegance: vintage minimalism. This design trend is a modern iteration of the simplicity and style that defined the 1970s. To truly appreciate its current appeal, let's embark on a journey that compares vintage minimalism then and now.

A Nostalgic Echo:

The vintage minimalism of the '70s was characterized by clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a penchant for understated elegance. It was an era that sought to strip away excess and embrace simplicity. Flash forward to the present day, and we find that these same principles continue to captivate our hearts.

Today's vintage minimalism is an evolution of its '70s counterpart. It's an aesthetic that marries the charm of the past with the demands of the modern world. While the clean lines and unadorned beauty remain, it has adapted to new contexts, making it both a nod to nostalgia and a celebration of contemporary sensibilities.

Standing Out in the Crowded Marketplace:

One of the intriguing aspects of vintage minimalism is its ability to stand out amidst the clamor of an oversaturated market. In a world where products often vie for attention through extravagant embellishments, this trend takes a different route. It chooses the path of restraint and refinement.

Consider, for instance, the packaging of products embracing vintage minimalism. Instead of a cacophony of colors and complex designs, it opts for simplicity. Pastel colors play a crucial role in this narrative, infusing products with a sense of tranquility. In doing so, they stand out not by shouting but by their ability to whisper elegance in a crowded room.

A Soothing Antidote:

Vintage minimalism also offers a soothing antidote to the overwhelming visual clutter of the modern world. In an age where our screens are filled with a constant barrage of information, this trend reminds us of the beauty of simplicity. It allows us to breathe amidst the chaos.

Whether it's a serene interior space adorned with minimalistic decor or a product that exudes quiet sophistication, vintage minimalism invites us to pause. It's an aesthetic that encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the finer details. In a world where noise often drowns out nuance, it's a reminder that less can indeed be more.

In conclusion, vintage minimalism isn't merely a trend; it's an enduring testament to the power of elegance and simplicity. It has evolved over the decades, finding its place in our modern lives as a beacon of understated beauty. It stands out not by shouting but by its ability to resonate with our desire for calm and refinement in an increasingly chaotic world.

Mastering the Artistry of Gradients in Modern Design

In the ever-evolving world of design, trends serve as windows into the creative zeitgeist of a given era. In 2023, gradients have taken center stage, and what sets this resurgence apart is the ingenious ways in which designers are redefining their use. Gradients are no longer just a tool; they're a canvas for exploring the kaleidoscope of possibilities, introducing visual variety by seamlessly blending multiple bright colors.

A Symphony of Colors:

Gradients have long been a staple in design, but today's designers are venturing into uncharted territory. They're not content with linear transitions; instead, they're orchestrating palettes that are both modern and slightly psychedelic. The result is a mesmerizing play of colors that gently morph from one hue to another, akin to soft wisps of smoke curling through the air.

This artistic evolution has brought forth gradients that are not only visually captivating but also conceptually profound. They're a testament to the power of experimentation, where designers transform a simple design element into a symphony of colors that evoke emotion and curiosity.

Functional Brilliance of Gradients:

Beyond their aesthetic allure, gradients serve a crucial functional role that elevates design to new heights. They act as visual maestros, directing the viewer's gaze with precision and intent.

One of their key functions is drawing attention. Designers strategically place gradients to highlight particular elements, be it a striking image or essential information. The gentle shift in colors serves as a spotlight, guiding the viewer's eye exactly where it should linger.

Moreover, gradients come to the rescue when it comes to legibility. In the past, designers wrestled with readability issues, particularly when text overlaid vibrant or intricate backgrounds. Gradients offer a subtle yet effective backdrop, not only enhancing the text's appearance but also ensuring it remains clear and easily readable.

A Journey Through Colors:

What truly sets gradients apart is their ability to guide the viewer's gaze, creating a captivating sense of movement within a design. They're not merely static elements; they're pathways that invite exploration.

Gradients introduce a captivating depth and dimension to designs. Even in two-dimensional spaces, they infuse a sense of life and energy. As viewers engage with a gradient-infused design, their gaze naturally follows the subtle color shifts, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

AI-Powered Midjourney in 2023

In the world of graphic design, 2023 marks the dawn of a transformative trend known as Midjourney. It's a trend that defies convention, where human creativity and artificial intelligence (AI) unite to forge a new path. In this blog, we'll delve deeper into the implications of Midjourney design, exploring the hyper-realistic visuals it births, celebrating the harmonious blend of precision and humanity, and unraveling the newfound accessibility it bestows upon graphic design and visual storytelling.

Text to image is scary:

Midjourney design has given birth to hyper-realistic visuals that blur the line between the digital and the tangible. AI algorithms, driven by immense datasets, painstakingly craft designs with an uncanny level of realism. Storefronts and scenes come alive in ways previously deemed unimaginable.

This hyper-realism carries profound implications. It transforms graphic design into an immersive experience, allowing audiences to engage with visuals that mirror reality itself. It's not merely design; it's a portal into a world where the boundaries between digital and physical cease to exist.

The Balance of Precision and Warmth:

What distinguishes Midjourney design is its ability to strike a unique equilibrium between the precision of technology and the warmth of the human touch. AI tools, guided by human art directors, infuse designs with a sense of organic imperfection reminiscent of hand-drawn illustrations.

This balance is a celebration of artistry. It exemplifies the harmonious collaboration between human imagination and AI's computational prowess. The result is designs that feel both meticulously crafted and authentically human. It's a testament to the boundless possibilities that emerge when creativity meets technology.

Empowering Accessibility:

Midjourney design is not limited to professionals; it's a beacon of accessibility. Text-to-image generators, powered by AI, empower writers, content creators, and storytellers from diverse backgrounds to harness the power of graphic design without extensive training.

This newfound accessibility is a game-changer. It democratizes design, placing the tools of visual storytelling in the hands of many. Writers can bring their narratives to life with visuals that resonate, content creators can infuse their messages with engaging graphics, and storytellers can immerse their audiences in captivating worlds.

Thank you for participating in this special edition, see you in the next one.