Angles
There are so many ways to add and use funky angles in design projects. An angle with a color-block can be a great way to help add a place for a text element on top of an image or video to help ensure readability. Use a color for the angled element that contrasts with the background and text overlay for a striking visual or use a color that matches the background for a more subtle feel. Another bonus for using angles in the design is that they can help create a distinct eye-tacking pattern from one part of the screen to another to help create visual focus. On a smaller, more vertical screen (such as a mobile device), large angles can even serve a pseudo-split screen purpose and create a way for text and other elements to stack in more vertical orientations. Angles can come in all different degrees and sizes. There aren’t a lot of rules with how to use them. The common factor is that they make the design easier to understand. Alternatively, angles can be an independent design element that really has nothing to do with function or adding a text layer. That’s exactly what Aviaja Dance does with their design. The main use of angles comes from the fun “A” in the logo. It’s the main visual on the homepage above the scroll and is rotated in other locations throughout the design.![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/avi.jpg)
![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/dantia.jpg)
![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/ai.jpg)
Overprint Effects
While overprinting is a print design technique, the visual it creates is popping up in plenty of digital projects. It’s a cool look that creates additional colorways and almost always has a funky vibe. When a design uses overprint, one color “prints” over another forming a mixed shade from the two hues. It has a certain elegance because as a print technique, it is often reserved for special projects. That same feel comes through in digital design as well. Sweet Punk uses a fun overprint with a bright orange circle and black and white image to create a lot of contrast in an interesting color effect. What makes it stand out even more is that the overprint slide is just part of a bigger set of moving images. It stands out because of the color choices and technique.![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/sweetpunk.jpg)
![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/kriya.jpg)
![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/distopian.jpg)
Turn of the Last Century Typography
Tall, skinny, modern-style typefaces are in. Bonus points for using this trend in a way that evokes feelings of the roaring 20s (1920s that is). These font styles seem to mimic media posters from the era. While most of these typefaces fall into the category of modern serif, there are some sans options that create a similar feel. The primary commonality is the use of extremely tall x-heights, and strokes with distinctly variable thick and thin options. Most of these typefaces are rather condensed as well. Note how each of these examples takes a different approach. Better Half uses a modern serif with a dramatic x-height. Note the use of upper and lower-case letters for the headline. It brings attention to the high-drama of the typeface.![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/better-half.jpg)
![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/sounds.jpg)
![](https://www.webdesignerdepot.com/cdn-origin/uploads/2020/07/synch.jpg)
Conclusion
Design trends that are fun (and functional) are some of the best. Using angles can make it easier to incorporate text elements that are easy to read, overprint effects add flair and a bit of an old-school feel, and turn of the last century typography feels modern and fresh with a hint of 1920s flair. Any of these design elements can be applied to websites without a complete overhaul and make a great refresh for the dog days of summer and beyond.Carrie Cousins
Carrie Cousins is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience in the communications industry, including writing for print and online publications, and design and editing. You can connect with Carrie on Twitter @carriecousins.
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