I wanted to document what I anticipate as the top six logo design trends for 2016. There are few new design firms out there predicting some trends that I feel are either inaccurate or too amateur in thought.

1.) The Ombre Gradient Approach:
One of the trends I see is ditching the traditional gradient approach to color used in the past, in leui of a new color trend treatment. Utilizing a horizontal shading from left to right, or vice versa, to create more of an ombre fade and transition.

See recent logo design we created recently for a client below:

2.) Geometric Infographics
I see geometric, linear graphics being utilized more in logo design and branding. It appears to reflect the world around us with its open, modern lines, as seen in the latest architecture and home designs. It’s a bolder and more forward interpretation on the image depicted.

See recent logo design comp below for a recent client:

3.) Hand-Lettering
I remember learning calligraphy in my early teens. I recall sketching numbers by hand in English honors class in high-school. It’s been refreshing to see that resurgence of custom, hand-lettered type within the last year or so. I can see bigger brands like motor companies and the food industry utilizing that type of custom feel to convey a warmer, personal feel.

See recent logo design comp below for a recent bar:

4.) Metallics on Black

I’ve been psychotically obsessed with rose gold and bright metallic golds on black fabrics and matte paper. I’ve witnessed this growing design trend on business cards and other materials. I anticipate this high-contrast, rich treatment to flood into the fashion realm, site design and packaging.

See various photos below I’ve snapped while out and about:

5.) Vintage

The vintage approach has been here for a few years. We see the downtown hipsters strutting their classic Metallica shirt. We see Miller Light and Budweiser trying to cash in on that vintage feel with throwback beer can designs to target a younger market. The ode to an era, that was pure and simple will reign with logo designs for some time.

See Miller Lite’s vintage shirt-inspired design inspired by our friends at Fine Southern Gentlemen in East Austin:

6.) Pantone Black
I forsee the use of a deep, rich use of blacks in logo design. I see us ditching neutral grays and going towards the end of the spectrum for more impact. I see the use of black against brighter whites for a modern and classic feel, all in one.