Aesthetic minimalism and brutalism emerged as two contrasting user interface (UI) design trends in 2021. Minimalism purposely simplifies interfaces to keep screens clean and minimal. In contrast, brutalism embraces strong visual contrast, clashing typography, and unconventional layouts. Brutalism is driven by the concept of deconstructing traditional perceptions of what is considered beautiful and useful.

University of California, Davis

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-Glassmorphism
-Color
-Minimalism vs Brutalism
-3d illustrations
-Bauhaus Style
-Colorless Design

Types of UI Design Trends

Two of the design trends for 2021 discuss color, emphasizing the importance of having "vivid color" as well as the stylistic choice of having "blurred, colorful backgrounds". Having unique colors will help the interface pop out at users as well as distinguish a particular product from its competitors or other similar products. Most importantly, color is what is important in making the design look pleasing to the users' eyes.

Color in UI Design for 2021

Although 3D design isn't new, it has been advancing and becoming more hyper-real and lifelike. Many designers are playing around with combining their 3D illustrations with flat illustrations or adding animation and movement.

3D Illustrations

A very unique and abstract geometric design technique is widely used and becoming the trend in 2021. It is minimalistic but still manages to leave a strong impression.

Bauhaus Style

Interestingly enough, colorless design could actually stand out and catch others'  attention amongst the many vibrant and vivid colored designs in 2021. 

Colorless UI Design

Minimalism vs. Brutalism in 2021 UI Design

Glassmorphism is a user interface (UI) design trend that utilizes a background blur effect to create a floating, translucent, multi-dimensional glass-like look on components. A common application of this style is in credit card designs.

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