If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed something: it’s not just about the dances and viral challenges anymore. TikTok has become a major trendsetter in the world of graphic design, influencing everything from color schemes to typography. And if you’re a teenager with an eye for creativity, this app is pretty much a goldmine of inspiration.
The Rise of Aesthetic Culture
First things first: TikTok has played a massive role in the rise of “aesthetic culture.” You know those videos where everything just looks perfect—from the color-coordinated outfits to the perfectly arranged bedroom? That’s all part of the aesthetic movement. On TikTok, aesthetics have become a way for people to express their personalities and vibes, and graphic design is right at the center of it.
Take, for example, the “cottagecore” aesthetic. It’s all about cozy, nature-inspired visuals—think soft greens, floral patterns, and handwritten fonts. This look has exploded on TikTok, and suddenly everyone wants their designs to feel like a walk in a fairytale forest. Then there’s “dark academia,” which is all moody, vintage, and scholarly. TikTok’s influence means these aesthetics aren’t just limited to fashion or home decor—they’re seeping into graphic design, too.
Typography Trends
Thanks to TikTok, typography is getting a serious glow-up. Remember when everyone used to stick to the same basic fonts? Not anymore. TikTok has shown that fonts can be just as expressive as the words they spell out. One day you’ll see a video using playful, bubbly fonts to give off fun, energetic vibes. The next day, it’s all about those bold, chunky letters that scream confidence.
And it’s not just about what fonts are being used—it’s also about how they’re being used. Designers on TikTok are experimenting with dynamic text effects, like animated type that moves, stretches, or glitches. These eye-catching trends are taking over not just social media, but also websites, posters, and even school projects.
Color Palettes: Bold and Unapologetic
If there’s one thing TikTok has taught us about graphic design, it’s that color is everything. The platform is full of videos showcasing bold, unapologetic color palettes that break all the rules. Forget the idea that colors have to “match” in a traditional sense—TikTok is all about mixing unexpected shades to create something fresh and exciting.
For example, the neon trend has been huge. Designers are using electric pinks, greens, and blues to create designs that almost glow off the screen. Then there’s the resurgence of pastel palettes, but with a twist—paired with bold black or metallic accents to create contrast that pops. TikTok is a playground where color theory gets flipped on its head, leading to new, daring combinations that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.
DIY Design Tips and Tricks
One of the coolest things about TikTok is how it’s made graphic design accessible to everyone. You don’t need fancy software or a degree in design to create something amazing—all you need is a phone and some creativity. TikTok is packed with tutorials showing how to create trendy designs using free apps or even just your camera roll.
From how to make your own aesthetic icons to tips on creating a viral-worthy logo, TikTok is a treasure trove of quick, easy-to-follow design hacks. The best part? It’s all shared by people just like you—other teens who are passionate about design and eager to show off their skills.
The Future of Design, TikTok Style
So, what does this all mean for the future of graphic design? In short, it’s getting a lot more fun and a lot less predictable. TikTok is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, encouraging designers to experiment, break the rules, and most importantly, express themselves. Whether you’re just dabbling in design or thinking about making it a career, there’s no doubt that TikTok will keep influencing what’s cool, creative, and cutting-edge in the design world.
So keep scrolling, keep creating, and who knows? Maybe your next design idea will be the next big TikTok trend!