· while cowhide prints can be controversial , they have consistently appeared on fashion runways this year. So read on as i share their thoughts on the biggest trends shaping 2026 , and what creatives need to know about them. While clean, flat icons remain a popular and practical choice, we’re seeing more designers explore illustrated and expressive icon styles that add depth and emotion. In fact, much of our creative design is going toward our sometimes messy and chaotic (and glorious) humanity. · for 2026 , the heavy influence of ai, ar technology, and gaming in our lives may ironically be driving a bit of a backlash away from hi-tech design. We arent sure how we feel about it, but we have to believe. In 2026 , icons continue to play a major role in defining how a brand feels. · here are 20 graphic design trends to keep on your radar in 2026. · to map out where graphic design is heading, ive gathered insights from creative directors, strategists and designers across leading agencies. · the controversial trend of a popular animal print , cowhide, is being dubbed the new neutral. we spoke with interior designers about how to use cowhide in your home decor. With the print’s earthy tones and organic appearance, many designers consider this print to be the “new neutral. ” · its all enough to make people in design circles wonder if were about to see a bigger push in 2026 in the world of interior design. Explore the most important graphic design trends for 2026 , from ai and typography to motion, minimalism, and emerging visual systems shaping modern design.