The packaging design trends for 2025 are all about creativity, confidence and having a little fun. Whether incorporating clever cutouts, adding a marker pen mascot or playing with a sunset color palette, creative packaging design is your chance to take customers on a memorable journey.
Staying on top of packaging design trends can give your brand the fresh edge it needs. And you don’t need to reinvent your branding—a small graphic design tweak can make a big impact! Ready to shake things up and inject some excitement into your packaging design? Let’s dive into what 2025 has in store.
Packaging design trends of 2025:
Take a look at last year’s packaging design trends. Or view our collection of trends predictions over the years, picked by the global community of creatives that work with small businesses every year through VistaPrint.
1. Clever Cutouts
While bold colors can be striking, the shapes used in packaging design sometimes make the biggest statement. As a popular fashion TikTok trend says, “If an outfit’s not interesting through color, then it has to be interesting through shape.” This idea translates perfectly to packaging design, where form can take center stage. Enter the Clever Cutouts packaging trend.
The strength of the Clever Cutouts trend lies in its simplicity and sophistication. Using smart and clever ways to cut the box can give visual hints about the product. If your product is a pillow, you may have a cutout in the shape of a crescent moon. Or, if your product is honey, then use cutouts on the label to visualize the drips of honey on the side of the jar.
Source: Luxury hair extensions packaging design by StanBranding via 99designs by Vista
Source: Silk pillowcase packaging design with Clever Cutouts by StanBranding via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Clever Cutouts packaging design trend:
- Die-cut cutouts: Strategic and clever cutout designs that reveal key parts and facets of the product.
- Minimalist layouts: Simple, clean designs that focus on essentials, avoiding clutter.
- Subtle storytelling: Minimal text and graphics, letting the product and design speak for themselves.
With sleek die-cuts and clean layouts, this simple packaging provides just enough information while keeping the design modern and refined. Small business owners can leverage this trend by putting a new spin on packaging and showing the products in the best possible light using unique and interesting cutouts.
Source: Natural soap packaging design by DLab™ via 99designs by Vista
Source: Honey packaging that uses cutouts cleverly to mimic the product. Packaging design by vitalfuerze via 99designs by Vista
Source: Spice packaging with leaf cutout to showcase product for packaging design by gianni88 via 99designs by Vista
2. Simplistic Scribbles and Etches
In 2025, instead of slick, flawless designs, brands are going for a raw approach with the Simplistic Scribbles and Etches trend—scribbles that look like they’ve been drawn by hand directly onto the package with pens and charcoal, and etches that mimic linocut techniques.
This design trend reminds us of the power of the human element in design. It’s a reaction to the growing presence of AI in design, as businesses aim to connect with consumers craving authenticity. The message is clear: “This product is made by humans, for humans.”
Source: Simplistic Scribbles and Etches packaging design by Blukki via 99designs by Vista
This trend draws inspiration from lino and woodcut prints, where the raised parts of carved designs are inked and pressed to create unique textures. Although these designs are done digitally, they still capture that handmade look and feel using clever digital techniques to mimic the imperfections you would see in a lino or woodcut. The same goes for scribbles and charcoal strokes, where digital brushes mimic hand-drawn lines, adding a human touch that makes the packaging feel personable, warm and authentic.
Source: Monochrome packaging design with scribbles by CUPEDIUM via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Simplistic Scribbles and Etches packaging design trend:
- Human element: Digital tools mimic the look of hand-drawn scribbles, charcoal strokes and linocut etches, giving packaging a raw and handcrafted feel.
- Texture: Inspired by lino and woodcut relief prints, raised and textured areas add depth and tactile quality to designs.
- Imperfect details: Deliberate irregularities, such as uneven lines and rough edges, mimic the imperfections of hand-drawn artwork and traditional woodcut prints.
- Minimalist: These simple designs avoid clutter, using only essential elements to communicate the product’s message.
- Muted or monochrome color palettes: Simple monochrome color schemes, often neutral or earthy tones, keep the focus on the handcrafted look.
The Simplistic Scribbles and Etches trend is tailor-made for artisan food companies, beauty brands and eco-friendly products that want to show off their human side. This trend instantly gives packaging an approachable and handcrafted feel that customers can’t resist.
Source: Cold brew packaging design with simplistic scribbles by Replika_ via 99designs by Vista
3. Sunset Gradients
Gradients aren’t a new packaging design aesthetic. In fact, they’ve been a hot trend for a while now. But in 2025, there’s a particular gradient gaining traction—the sunset kind. The Sunset Gradients packaging design trend uses a horizontal flow of calming colors that mimic the look of a sunset or sunrise. This warm and inviting look makes products appear peaceful and approachable on the shelf.
Source: Sunset Gradients packaging design by monostudio via 99designs by Vista
Source: Sunset Gradients tanning oil packaging design by FedoraCreativeStudio via 99designs by Vista
Source: Natural supplements packaging design with a sunset gradient by Smdiscover via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Sunset Gradients packaging design trend:
- Horizontal gradients: Smooth color transitions that flow gently across the packaging.
- Sunset color palette: Soft pastels and warm hues that evoke a sunrise or sunset.
- Subtle contrast: A gentle shift in tones that creates a calming and serene visual effect.
- Minimalist: Let the gradient take center stage without overpowering additional design elements.
The Sunset Gradients trend is ideal for brands looking to bring a sense of calm and warmth to their packaging. Wellness companies, skincare lines and health products will glow with this trend, as it perfectly mirrors their peaceful vibe. Food and fashion brands can also tap into this soothing aesthetic—especially if they want their packaging to quietly stand out against bolder product designs.
Source: Spray bottle packaging design using sunset tones by Nadya Nadya via 99designs by Vista
4. Curated Frames
The Curated Frames trend brings an elevated gallery-worthy touch to packaging design in 2025. This packaging trend incorporates intricate drawings and paintings or photography inside frames, paired with simple text, creating a refined high-end feel that places the artwork center-stage.
Advancements in printing technology allow brands to use detailed artwork on packaging, making it easier than ever to achieve that high-quality, curated look. These mini masterpieces feature delicate lines and textures, lending products a luxurious or expensive feel.
Source: Wine label design by Ossobüko Studio via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Curated Frames packaging design trend:
- Framed artwork: Photographs or illustrations enclosed in frames or shapes rather than full-bleed designs. Like a tiny art gallery snapshot.
- Intricate elements: Fine details and lines that elevate the overall look.
- Minimalist text: Simple text for the brand or product name, allowing the artwork to shine.
The Curated Frames packaging design trend instantly gives your product a more premium look, making it feel like a piece of art. This simple yet curated approach creates a sense of exclusivity and sophistication, which can boost perceived value and attract customers looking for something special.
Source: Wellness brand packaging design by gianni88 via 99designs by Vista
5. Twisted Sustainability
Sustainable packaging is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s essential. This year, eco-friendly packaging is taking center stage, with brands and consumers embracing greener choices, but not necessarily in greener colors.
That’s where the Twisted Sustainability packaging design trend comes in. This is sustainability with a twist, swapping earthy tones for vibrant, fun colors that demand attention. Eco-friendly packaging no longer means muted browns and greens—this bold and bright packaging says, “Yes, I’m sustainable, but I’m also fun enough to keep!” Ultimately, these design choices make the packaging, the product and the cause more memorable.
Source: Truffle packaging design by monostudio via 99designs by Vista
Source: Truffle packaging design by monostudio via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Twisted Sustainability packaging design trend 2025:
- Bold, playful colors: Neon pinks, electric blues and sunny yellows that turn heads and spark joy.
- Creative textures and shapes: Packaging that feels good to touch and surprises you with its form.
- Keep-me appeal: It’s eco-friendly, sure, but also stylish enough to hang onto.
- Sustainable materials: Fully recyclable, compostable or made from recycled materials.
The Twisted Sustainability packaging design trend is a perfect match for businesses that want to show their eco-conscious side without losing their creative edge. Whether you’re running a beauty, cosmetics or artisan food brand, Twisted Sustainability is the perfect opportunity for small businesses to communicate their values while delivering thoughtful and engaging packaging.
Source: Eco-friendly beauty product packaging design by gianni88 via 99designs by Vista
“In 2025, sustainability will be a crucial component of package design as consumers and companies prioritize using eco-friendly products and procedures.”—TikaDesign, Designer on 99designs by Vista
Source: Fermented food product packaging design by Ossobüko Studio via 99designs by Vista
6. Back to Your Roots
The Back to Your Roots packaging design trend is all about embracing and showcasing the authentic cultural heritage of a product or brand through thoughtful and meaningful design and connecting with customers through that authenticity. You can use illustrations, symbolism and patterns to tell a story about your brand’s cultural origins so your packaging reflects who you are and where you come from.
Source: Mezcal bottle design by Replika_ via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Back to Your Roots packaging design trend:
- Authentic symbolism: Icons and motifs aligned with a brand’s heritage.
- Traditional patterns: Culturally significant designs that connect a product to its origins.
- Storytelling illustrations: Artwork that tells a story about where a product comes from.
Tapping into your brand’s history to connect with customers who appreciate cultural authenticity and traditions. It’s a way of proudly showing your product’s origins and adding a rich backstory to your brand, communicating genuine cultural meaning.
This packaging design trend is a perfect match for culturally specific food and drink brands, handmade craft products and local businesses that want to emphasize pride in their culture.
Source: Mexican snack packaging design by UniqueHub via 99designs by Vista
Source: Andean plant-based snack packaging design by Pepper Pack Design via 99designs by Vista
Source: Australian wine label design by TristanV via 99designs by Vista
7. Marker Pen Mascots
The fun Marker Pen Mascots trend is all about injecting playfulness into packaging design. Perhaps as a response to the current seriousness of the world, brands are embracing simple mascot outlines that look like they’ve been drawn on with a marker pen. By keeping their packaging lighthearted and not taking themselves too seriously, brands can appeal to an audience looking for a little levity.
Source: Marker Pen Mascots packaging design by Replika_ via 99designs by Vista
Source: Vitamin packaging design by apelsini via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Marker Pen Mascots packaging design trend:
- Doodle mascots: These simple hand-drawn mascots are full of personality, spontaneous and fun.
- Simple color scheme: Mascots are usually just single color outlines.
- Playful tone: Mascots add a sense of friendliness, approachability and humor to packaging.
The Marker Pen Mascots trend works perfectly for brands that want to have fun with their packaging design, especially those appealing to youthful audiences. Snack companies, beverage brands and even health and artisan products can benefit from this playful approach. This packaging design trend is a great fit for companies that don’t mind poking a little fun at themselves and want to keep things lighthearted.
Source: A cocktail can design with Marker Pen Mascots by goopanic via 99designs by Vista
8. Fruity Hues
One of the freshest packaging design trends in 2025 is Fruity Hues. Inspired by fruit bowl colors—lime greens, zesty yellows, watermelon pinks and blueberry blues—this trend mixes a variety of fruity shades to create vibrant packaging design.
These fruity palettes are bright with lighter hues rather than super-saturated dark shades. Whether you’re applying these colors to squiggly patterns or playful shapes, this trend will bring a burst of energy to your packaging.
Source: Lip Balm packaging design by Mj.vass via 99designs by Vista
Key features of the Fruity Hues packaging design trend:
- Vibrant color combinations: A mix of (four to six) fruity colors like pink, yellow, orange and blue.
- Light and bright hues: These tones give the packaging a fresh and lively feel.
- Positive vibe: This fun color palette adds energy to packaging, making it youthful and approachable.
But the Fruity Hues trend isn’t just about looking fun—it makes packaging stand out in a sea of more muted designs, grabbing customers’ attention with its fresh, playful color palette. It’s a surefire way to make your product feel energetic and inviting while leaving a lasting impression. Plus, the wide range of colors offers versatility, allowing you to adapt it to different packaging styles.
This trend is a natural fit for food, beverage, beauty and cosmetics brands looking to project a fun vibe and brighten their packaging design. If you’re aiming to appeal to younger customers or just want your packaging to stand out, the Fruity Hues trend offers a flavorful color palette to make your product pop.
Source: Perfume packaging design by kazizubair13 via 99designs by Vista
A glimpse into the future of packaging design trends
These stunning packaging design trends for 2025 bring a fresh focus on personality and authenticity. From the playful doodles of the Marker Pen Mascots and Simplistic Scribbles and Etches trends to the unexpected Twisted Sustainability and heritage-driven Back to Your Roots, brands are leaning into designs that connect with customers on a human level. Packaging this year is all about telling a story.
The 2025 packaging design trends mark a shift away from serious polished designs to something more approachable and fun. Brands are using vibrant colors, hand-drawn elements and clever cutouts to stand out and show they only take themselves seriously when it’s about something that really matters, like sustainability or cultural heritage.
This is the perfect chance for small businesses to experiment with packaging. With nearly half of small business owners planning to increase marketing spend and try new tactics in the coming year, it’s time to see which trends fit your brand to give it the fresh edge you’ve been looking for.
