As we step into 2025, the world of web design continues to evolve, bringing with it a mix of innovative trends and some that are being left behind.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the top web design trends for 2025, including what’s in and what’s out.
1. Anti-Design
Anti-design is a web design trend that breaks all conventional rules. It’s a style that doesn’t adhere to any specific guidelines, allowing designers to create unique and standout designs. This trend works exceptionally well for posters and can be creatively applied to websites by adding motion to static images or using oversized images that are impossible to ignore. With the advent of no-code tools, creating such complex designs has become more accessible.
2. Experimental Navigation
Traditional navigation bars are becoming a thing of the past. In 2025, designers are experimenting with new ways to create navigation that is outside the box. For example, Skyvia’s website uses a zoom-in and zoom-out effect for navigation, making it feel like the entire site is a single canvas. Another example is the Canal Street Market website, which uses a fold-out navigation system that keeps users on the same page while navigating through different sections.
3. Scrolling Design
Scrolling design is becoming increasingly popular, with designers adding parallax effects and animations to scroll events. This trend involves using animated text, images, and 3D elements to create a dynamic user experience. The Big Picture Company’s website is a great example, featuring 3D letters that fly into place as you scroll.
4. Macro Animation
Macro animations are large-scale animations that respond to user interactions like scrolling and mouse movements. These animations make the entire website feel alive and interactive. While some designers prefer a more subtle approach, others go all out with 3D elements and scroll-jacking to create a fully immersive experience.
5. Chatbot Design
With the rise of AI, chatbots are becoming a common feature on websites. In 2025, we’ll see more websites incorporating AI-driven chatbots that offer voice, text, and chat functionalities. These chatbots can be integrated into the website’s design, offering users a more interactive and personalized experience.
6. Smart Video
Smart videos are replacing traditional images in feature sections. These short, 10-second videos provide a quick overview of a feature or product. They can be triggered by scrolling or can be embedded in the page to keep users engaged. Hulie’s website is a great example of this trend in action.
7. Cursor Animation
Cursor animations are becoming more sophisticated, with designers using them to animate different parts of a website. This trend involves adding interactive elements that respond to the cursor’s movement, creating a more engaging user experience. The Stripe Dodev website is a great example, featuring windows that can be dragged and moved around.
8. Custom Illustrations
Custom illustrations are a timeless trend that continues to be popular in 2025. These hand-drawn illustrations add a personal touch to websites, making them feel more welcoming and unique. London Therapy’s website is a great example, featuring custom illustrations that are both beautiful and functional.
9. Full-Screen Headers
Full-screen headers are becoming more common, with designers using them to create a strong first impression. These headers often feature sliders or videos that keep users engaged while they navigate through the site. Off Menu’s website is a great example, featuring a full-screen header that allows users to explore different sections without leaving the main page.
10. Bento Grid
The Bento grid is a design trend that continues to be popular in 2025. This grid layout is used to display information in a visually appealing way, often featuring a mix of images, text, and animations. Walmart’s website is a great example of this trend in action.
11. Expressive Typography
Expressive typography is a trend that involves using unique fonts and styles to make a website stand out. This trend includes using full caps, outlines, and even animated text to create a unique look. Ancient Drink’s website is a great example, featuring a Nordic-style font that adds a historical touch to the design.
12. Color Trends
Color trends are an essential part of web design, with designers using color to create a specific mood or feeling. In 2025, we’ll see more websites using bright and vibrant colors mixed with neutral tones to highlight important elements. The Wick Studio’s collaboration with Pantone is a great example of this trend.
13. Brutalism
Brutalism is a design trend that is becoming more popular with younger designers. This style is bold and unconventional, often featuring oversized text and buttons. While it may not appeal to everyone, it’s a trend that is making waves in the design world.
14. Micro Interactions
Micro interactions are small animations that enhance the user experience. These interactions can be found in buttons, hover effects, and transitions, making the website feel more dynamic and interactive. A great example is the hover glow effect found on many UI components.
15. Negative Space
Negative space is a design trend that involves using white space to create a clean and uncluttered look. This trend helps users focus on the main content, making it easier to navigate the site. A great example is the use of white space in the design of many modern websites.
16. Grid Design
Grid design is a trend that involves using CSS grids to create a structured layout. This trend is becoming more popular as designers look for ways to display information in a clean and organized way. Urban Outfitters’ website is a great example of this trend in action.
17. 3D Websites
3D elements are becoming more common in web design, with designers using them to create immersive experiences. These elements can be found in headers, feature sections, and even entire websites. Atmos’ website is a great example, featuring 3D elements that come to life as you scroll.
18. Blending Image and Graphics
Blending images and graphics is a trend that involves combining different elements to create a unique look. This trend can be seen in the use of text overlays, silhouettes, and other creative techniques. A great example is the Japanese website that features a character that transforms into a samurai as you scroll.
19. Dark Mode and Light Mode
Dark mode and light mode are becoming standard features on websites, with designers creating designs that work well in both. This trend involves using color harmony and contrast to create a seamless transition between the two modes. Dwak’s website is a great example, featuring a design that changes completely when switching between dark and light modes.
20. Text-Only Websites
Text-only websites are a trend that focuses on simplicity and clarity. This trend involves using text as the main design element, making it easy for users to focus on the content. Sam’s portfolio is a great example, featuring a design that encourages users to read the text rather than browse images.
If you’re interested in learning more about web design and how to create your own website, consider joining a community or taking a course. There are many resources available that can help you get started with no-code tools and AI-driven design platforms.
