Web design is a dynamic and evolving field that reflects the changing needs and preferences of users, businesses, and technologies. As we enter 2023, we can expect to see some new and exciting web design trends that will challenge the conventions and push the boundaries of creativity and interactivity. Here are 10 web design trends that will shape the future of the web.
1. Animated product reveals
One of the ways to capture the attention and interest of users is to use animations to reveal products or features on a website. Animations can create a sense of anticipation, curiosity, and delight, as well as showcase the functionality and benefits of a product. Animated product reveals can be done in various ways, such as using transitions, transformations, parallax effects, or 3D models. For example, Webflow uses animations to reveal different aspects of their web design platform on their homepage1.
2. Immersive 3D worlds
Another web design trend that will create more engaging and immersive experiences for users is the use of 3D worlds. 3D worlds can create a sense of depth, realism, and interactivity, as well as transport users to different environments and scenarios. 3D worlds can be created using technologies such as WebGL, Three.js, or Babylon.js, and can be integrated with other elements such as sound, video, or VR/AR. For example, The Fabricant uses 3D worlds to showcase their digital fashion collections2.
3. Overstimulation
In contrast to the minimalist and clean web design trends of the past years, some designers are opting for a more overstimulating and chaotic approach to web design. Overstimulation can be achieved by using multiple colors, fonts, shapes, images, animations, or effects on a website, creating a sense of visual overload and disorder. Overstimulation can be used to convey a certain mood, message, or personality, as well as to challenge the norms and expectations of web design. For example, Museum of Internet uses overstimulation to create a nostalgic and playful tribute to the history of the internet3.
4. Parallax zoom scrolling
Parallax scrolling is a web design technique that creates an illusion of depth and movement by making different elements on a website move at different speeds when scrolling. Parallax zoom scrolling is a variation of this technique that adds a zoom effect to the elements, making them appear larger or smaller depending on the scroll direction. Parallax zoom scrolling can create a dynamic and captivating experience for users, as well as highlight important content or features on a website. For example, Apple uses parallax zoom scrolling to showcase their AirPods Pro product4.
5. ’90s navigation
Another web design trend that draws inspiration from the past is the use of ’90s navigation elements on modern websites. ’90s navigation elements include things such as drop-down menus, tabs, buttons, icons, or frames that were common on websites in the early days of the internet. ’90s navigation elements can create a sense of nostalgia, retrofuturism, or irony, as well as contrast with the sleek and modern designs of today. For example, Space Jam: A New Legacy uses ’90s navigation elements to create a homage to the original Space Jam website from 19965.
6. Scrapbook aesthetic
Another web design trend that will add more personality and creativity to websites is the scrapbook aesthetic. The scrapbook aesthetic is characterized by using collage-like layouts, handwritten fonts, stickers, doodles, or other elements that resemble a personal scrapbook or journal. The scrapbook aesthetic can create a sense of warmth, authenticity, or individuality for a website or brand, as well as appeal to users who enjoy DIY or crafty activities. For example, The New York Times uses the scrapbook aesthetic to create an interactive list of their best books from 2020.
7. Increased web accessibility
One of the most important web design trends for 2023 is the increased focus on web accessibility. Web accessibility refers to making websites accessible and usable for people with disabilities or impairments, such as visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. Web accessibility can be achieved by following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which provide a set of standards and best practices for web design and development. Web accessibility can benefit not only users with disabilities, but also users with low bandwidth, slow devices, or different preferences or needs. For example, Starbucks uses web accessibility features such as captions, alt text, keyboard navigation, or color contrast to make their website more inclusive and user-friendly.
8. Artificial intelligence
Another web design trend that will shape the future of the web is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the functionality and performance of websites. AI can be used to automate tasks, analyze data, generate content, personalize experiences, or provide assistance to users on a website. AI can also be integrated with other technologies such as voice recognition, chatbots, or machine learning to create more intelligent and interactive websites. For example, Netflix uses AI to provide recommendations, subtitles, ratings, or previews to their users based on their preferences and behavior.
9. Nostalgia and the Y2K aesthetic
Another web design trend that will continue to grow in popularity in 2023 is the nostalgia and the Y2K aesthetic. The Y2K aesthetic is a style that reflects the culture and technology of the late 1990s and early 2000s, such as neon colors, CD textures, pixelated fonts, or custom cursors. The Y2K aesthetic can create a sense of nostalgia, retrofuturism, or irony for users who grew up in that era or are fascinated by it. The Y2K aesthetic can also contrast with the minimalist and clean web design trends of today and create more unique and memorable websites. For example, Christopher Nelson uses the Y2K aesthetic to create a personal portfolio website that showcases his skills and personality.
10. Scrapbook aesthetic
Another web design trend that will add more personality and creativity to websites is the scrapbook aesthetic. The scrapbook aesthetic is characterized by using collage-like layouts, handwritten fonts, stickers, doodles, or other elements that resemble a personal scrapbook or journal. The scrapbook aesthetic can create a sense of warmth, authenticity, or individuality for a website or brand, as well as appeal to users who enjoy DIY or crafty activities. For example, The New York Times uses the scrapbook aesthetic to create an interactive list of their best books from 2020.
These are some of the web design trends that will shape the future of the web in 2023. Of course, these trends are not definitive or exhaustive, and there may be other trends that will emerge or evolve in the coming year. The best way to stay updated on the latest web design trends is to browse websites like Dribbble , 99designs , or Webflow1, where you can find inspiration and examples from talented web designers around the world.
We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about web design trends for 2023. If you need help with your web design project, you can always contact us at Bing and we will be happy to assist you. Thank you for reading and have a great day! 😊
1. webflow.com, 2. dribbble.com, 3. 99designs.com, 4. merehead.com, 5. dribbble.com