The branding trends of 2023 are a reflection of our current times and the shifting attitudes of consumers. After a tumultuous few years and growing dissatisfaction with the actions and lack of transparency from many brands, people are calling for authenticity, transparency, and honesty from the brands th
ey engage with.
From seeking joy, comfort, and escapism in nostalgia to connecting through shared values, humor, and human interactions, these trends show that brands are striving to meet the needs of consumers and provide meaningful experiences. While there may be various factors influencing branding trends, one thing is certain: the future of branding is about demonstrating how a brand aligns with its values and lives them out.
I love this brand. Liquid Death’s mission is to get people to drink more water and stop plastic pollution. They put their mission first in an unconventional manner: without a giant green“we’re eco-friendly” sign. via Liquid Death #missionfirst
Trend #1 - Mission First Branding:
Great news: Consumers are no longer satisfied with empty promises of social and environmental responsibility. They want to see brands taking real action to align with their values. Mission-driven branding puts a brand's purpose and values at the forefront, not just in words but in actions. Consumers are looking for brands that align with their own values and are making a tangible impact.
Trend #2 - Embracing an Era:
Ahhh nostalgia. In times of uncertainty, people seek comfort in the familiar. Embracing an era is a trend that harkens back to a different time in history, offering a sense of nostalgia and escapism. Whether it's the glitz of the 1920s or the nostalgia of the 2000s, this trend creates a connection with consumers by drawing on influences from the past that they already understand.
On TikTok, the platform where many found a new kind of community during those days of social isolation, posts with a throwback element frequently go viral and #nostalgia has 18.9 billion views.
Trend #3 - Overstimulated Branding:
Overstimulated branding uses eye-catching visuals and bold colors to capture attention and captivate the senses. These brands often use bright colors, distorted fonts, and in-your-face imagery to create a playful and memorable experience. They offer a welcome respite from the doom and gloom of the news cycle.
Trend #4 - Bringing Personality to the Forefront:
Meet the new face of branding: mascots. These relatable characters bring a strong personality to a brand, using human-like characteristics to connect with audiences on a deeper level. In a world where people crave connection and authenticity, mascots offer a tangible layer of character and warmth that consumers can relate to.
Trend #5 - Less is More:
Less is more in 2023. Brands are breaking free from the clutter and finding new ways to express their personality and message with minimal elements. From swapping letters for icons to infusing mission-first values in every aspect of the brand, this trend is all about standing out in a sea of sameness and truly connecting with consumers.
Trend #6 - Stand Out with Iconography:
A touch of rebellion might be just what your brand needs. Incorporating an icon or illustration into your text-based logo adds a unique and memorable touch. It serves as a visual cue for consumers to easily understand and connect with your brand. In today's fast-paced digital world, standing out and making a lasting impression is vital for any business.
Trend #7 - Humor is the Spice of Branding:
In a world that can be heavy and overwhelming, humor and satire are a breath of fresh air. Brands don't have to take themselves so seriously to connect with audiences. Consumers want brands to be relatable, to understand that they're going through the same struggles as them. Humor and satire can be a way to build that connection, create a memorable experience, and help us get through tough times. After all, laughter is the best medicine, right?
In 2023, branding is all about striking a chord with consumers.
As the world remains uncertain and challenging, people are drawn to visually striking and impactful branding that stands out and grabs their attention. But it's not just about aesthetics, they also want to connect with brands that align with their values and beliefs. Enter mission-first branding, humanized brand personalities and a healthy dose of humor. These elements give brands a relatable and authentic edge, making them more memorable and enjoyable for audiences. In a nutshell, the 2023 branding trends are all about creating an extraordinary experience that people can't help but remember.
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