Past Trends
In the past, graphics design in advertising was largely focused on print media such as newspapers, magazines, and billboards. The designs were often hand-drawn illustrations or photographs with minimal text. According to a report by Nielsen, in 2016, newspapers and magazines still accounted for 25% of global advertising spend, despite the rise of digital media.
The use of colors was also limited due to the cost of printing. For example, Coca-Cola’s iconic red and white logo was created in the late 19th century, partly because red was the cheapest color of ink at the time.
As technology improved, graphics design in advertising shifted towards more complex designs, with the use of computer graphics and digital printing. The introduction of desktop publishing software in the 1980s allowed designers to create more intricate designs and layouts.
Present Trends
Today, graphics design in advertising is dominated by digital media. Advertisements can be found on websites, social media, and mobile apps. According to a report by eMarketer, digital ad spending in the US reached $139.8 billion in 2020, representing 53.9% of total media ad spending.
The rise of digital media has allowed for more dynamic and interactive designs, with the use of animations, videos, and 3D graphics. For example, Nike’s “Reactland” ad campaign used 3D graphics to create an immersive experience for viewers, allowing them to explore a virtual world created from Nike’s latest running shoes.
Minimalism has also become a popular trend in graphics design, with simple and clean designs that are easy to understand and visually appealing. According to a report by Shutterstock, the use of minimalism in graphic design increased by 115% between 2015 and 2019.
The use of bold typography and color schemes has also become prevalent, with the aim of catching the viewer’s attention and conveying the brand message effectively. For example, Airbnb’s “Belong Anywhere” ad campaign used bold typography and bright colors to convey the brand’s message of inclusivity and diversity.
Future Trends
As technology continues to advance, the future of graphics design in advertising looks promising. The use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is expected to become more widespread, providing new and innovative ways to engage with customers. According to a report by Zion Market Research, the global VR in gaming and entertainment market is expected to reach $45.09 billion by 2027.
Personalization is also expected to play a more significant role in graphics design, with the use of data and analytics to create targeted advertisements that are tailored to the viewer’s interests and preferences. According to a report by Epsilon, personalized emails have an open rate of 29.3%, compared to 22.2% for non-personalized emails.
In terms of design trends, sustainability and eco-friendliness are likely to become more important, with the use of environmentally-friendly materials and designs that reflect a brand’s commitment to sustainability. For example, Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” ad campaign encouraged customers to consider the environmental impact of their purchases and make more sustainable choices.
Conclusion
Graphics design in advertising has come a long way since the days of hand-drawn illustrations and print media. With the rise of digital technology, designers have more tools at their disposal to create dynamic and interactive designs that capture the viewer’s attention and convey the brand message effectively.
As technology continues to evolve, the future of graphics design in advertising looks promising, with the use of VR, AR, personalization, and sustainability becoming more prevalent. At our London design company, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve





