2026 Design Trends You Will See Everywhere And How They Work in Print

Wed 28th January 2026

M&S kicks off 2026 with the cleanest packaging design

Design trends shape how brands are seen, remembered and trusted, and in 2026, design is all about clarity, confidence and connection.

While trends often start online, many of the strongest ones translate beautifully into print. From flyers and brochures to packaging and branded stationery, understanding what’s coming helps businesses make smarter design choices that last longer than a single campaign.

Here are some of the key design trends for 2026, and how they work in print.

1. Calm, Neutral Colour Palettes

An understated colour palette allows your message or product to pop

Soft, muted colours are continuing to grow in popularity. Think warm neutrals, gentle greys and understated tones rather than bold, overpowering palettes.

Why it works in print:

• Creates a clean, professional look
• Feels modern without being trend-heavy
• Allows typography and imagery to stand out

These palettes work especially well on flyers, brochures and premium stationery where readability and balance matter.

2. Minimal Layouts with Purpose

Intentional simplicity used to showcase the brand

Minimal design isn’t about being empty, it’s about being intentional.

In 2026, layouts are:

• Less cluttered
• More structured
• Focused on one clear message

In print, this means:

• Clear headlines
• Plenty of white space
• Strong hierarchy

This approach is ideal for marketing materials where you want the reader to quickly understand what you do and what action to take.

3. Bold, Confident Typography

Typography is taking centre stage. More brands are using:

• Large headlines
• Simple, confident fonts
• Strong contrast between headings and body text

In print, bold typography:

• Improves readability
• Draws attention from a distance
• Works particularly well on posters, flyers and table talkers

It’s a great way to make an impact without relying on lots of imagery.

4. Tactile Print and Texture

Add texture or foiling for premium printed materials

As digital design becomes more uniform, print is leaning into what it does best: physical texture.

Designers are increasingly pairing simple visuals with:

• Uncoated or textured paper stocks
• Matt finishes
• Subtle embossing or foil accents

These elements elevate printed materials and make them more memorable, particularly for brochures, business cards and packaging.

5. Consistent Design Across All Materials

One of the biggest design shifts for 2026 isn’t about style, it’s about consistency.

Brands are focusing on:

• Matching colours and fonts across all print
• Using repeatable layouts
• Creating recognisable visual systems

This ensures everything from flyers and leaflets to packaging and stationery feels connected, professional and trustworthy.

6. Design That Balances Digital With Print

Design is no longer created for one platform alone. In 2026, brands are designing with both print and digital in mind from the start.

That means:

• Colours that reproduce well in print
• Fonts that work at different sizes
• Layouts that adapt easily across formats

This approach saves time, avoids rework and ensures a consistent brand experience everywhere.

Using Design Trends Without Dating Your Brand

Trends should inspire, not overwhelm. The most effective approach is to:

• Use trends subtly
• Focus on longevity
• Prioritise clarity over decoration

Print materials are often used for months, not weeks, so thoughtful design choices matter.

Need Help Applying 2026 Design Trends to Print?

Whether you’re refreshing your flyers, updating brochures or improving your branded materials, we can help you apply current design trends in a way that suits your business and your budget.

From design advice to high-quality print, we’re here to help your marketing look its best in 2026.