Advocate’s Deborah Millinship’s design predictions for this year’s trends
An even greater embracing of diversity and inclusion is Deborah Millinship’s overarching prediction for the artistic trends this year, which will be reflected in greeting cards.
As true creativity, works by real artists, illustrators and designers remain ever potent, Deborah reveals what she believes will be the cultural drivers of creative tastes for 2024 as well as a trio of design trends that will shape people’s interactions and, as the agent for greeting cards and licensing at Advocate Art she’s well placed to comment.
“Reflecting on an eventful 2023, our gaze in 2024 has underscored the significance of inclusivity, emphasising the importance of recognising diverse backgrounds, while further extending our greeting card sends to include beloved pets,” said Deborah.
Trend 1 – Y2K nostalgia
“Embracing the whimsical essence of the Y2K era, envision a world adorned with quirky motifs and characters that encapsulate the joy of life. This trend, inclusive of all genders, sexualities, and friendships, transcends specific occasions, focusing on celebrating the everyday.
“Expect retro and modern motifs in candy-bright colours and psychedelic imagery, offering unique keepsake greetings to lift the spirits of recipients.”
Trend 2 – hopping mad
“Frogs and toad characters have hopped into the spotlight, making their way from homeware, fashion, and toys to paper and stationery. These lively characters, alongside trendy motifs like mushrooms and toadstools, contribute a cute or humorous touch to artworks.”
Trend 3 – calm serenity and bolshy brights
“Casting our gaze towards the changing seasons, self-care takes centre stage. Calm serenity guides us through with muted motifs and neutral palettes blended with soft icy blues, lilacs and sage greens.
“On the flip side, bolshy brights captures a contemporary spirit, featuring playful characters, modern families, bright geometric and retro prints. Incorporating subtle hints of Pantone’s trending colour of the year Peach Fuzz to add a touch of softness.
“There is also a second direction for more sophisticated brights emerging with vibrant jewel tones and clashing patterns, pairing pops of pink with sheer lilacs, grassy greens, light blues, mustard yellow, and peony navy. This eccentric trend promises a lively and uplifting visual experience.”
