UI Design Trends in 2021

We’ve written about design trends for years, but we feel 2021 offers some really interesting changes not seen before.  Here are 5 give changes in design trends you’ll start seeing in user interface design (UI).

3D Illustrations (yeah, still!)

3D imagery is here to stay—especially when it’s getting easier and easier for regular UI designers to actually create something in 3D using the latest tools and technologies.

Glassmorphism

Have you heard about the newest craze called glassmorphism? (that’s right, neuomorphism is no longer cool). It’s the newest trend in UI, which is mostly based on a effect called background blur, and it basically creates that “through the glass” look and feel on elements.  It was introduced in Windows Vista, then later in iOS7, but it seems it’s here to stay for a bit in the new, refreshed form!

If you think this looks super-hard to do in a web form, there’s a handy CSS generator for you by HYPE4 at glassmorphism.com (killer domain name, by the way).

Vivid colors

Everywhere I look, I can see colorful splashes on websites and mobile designs.  Take a look at Sleepiest as a cool example. I love how their color pallet creates a magical, ethereal vibe. Also, when we use vivid colors, it’s easier for us to differentiate and remember a product. Instagram knew that a long time ago, and that’s why the unforgettable change of their icon took place.

Blurred, colorful backgrounds

Similar to the one above, but mixed with glassmorphism a bit… Thanks to the delicacy of this effect, I think it makes the UI look just pleasurable to look at. The designs that use blurred backgrounds look incredibly organic, warm and welcoming.

Aesthetic minimalism

Probably a trend I personally love the most (have you seen OUR site?). There’s nothing more aesthetically pleasing, than a simple, minimal and readable UI.