Blog Illustration Trend: Character Design

Illustration Trend: Character Design

by RC Blog • June 29, 2021

In the last several decades, illustration, especially character design, has dominated different forms of media. This particular character design style—uneven, flexible, bold forms—has become prominent as it has evolved due to modern technological advances and software capabilities thus showing off more personality. From flat geometric shapes to 3D, character design has become one of the most unshakable illustration trends as of late.

The Branding Appeal

Although there is a belief that drawn imagery works only for less serious advertisements, a diverse number of brands have jumped on the bandwagon and have successfully used illustrations, especially character design, in their ad campaigns. The different approaches easily allowed them to get noticed in a heavily competitive environment.

Casper, a mattress company, used 2D illustrations that heavily focused on relatable characters to launch their brand. These became their key visuals for their traditional promos and online content, creating a unique appeal to their audience. Furthermore, having these character illustrations paved the way for consistent branding design such as having creative packaging solely unique to them.

The Packaging Hook

We all know how Packaging Design plays a vital role in the life of a product. How to get noticed? Here’s Absurda’s take: using non-traditional, ridiculously creative illustrations and tie them with an inspiring, visual story. Each beer features a character created from societal stereotypes that imparts “the absurdity of life in everyday and trivial events”. For sure, this gets an intriguing response from the consumers and ultimately gets the positive action the brand needs.

The UI/UX Design Elevation

Interactive platforms have found an exciting way to engage with the users even more. Applying these illustrated characters, a brand or service can establish a better relationship between their customers, appearing to be more original and friendly. They draw attention as it creates a natural interaction with the user.

Education Platform Concept & Animation, a project by Khrystyna Mytsak, is an example of character design in UI. The simple characters help you navigate the platform and allows the user to navigate new concepts and skills. Another example is the collaborative project between visual artist Leo Natsume and Uber Inc. The project aimed to send a fun and informative review to the 75 million people who use the Uber app.