Trendy or Lazy? The Decline
of
Design Uniqueness
Nowadays, there's an impressive array of artistic and design expression spanning mediums like typography, painting, mixed media, fashion, furniture, product design, speculative art... Artists are pushing boundaries, blending time-established techniques with technology to redefine what's possible. But amidst this vibrant tapestry, something continues to overshadow some of the real game-changers: the relentless mainstreaming of aesthetics and ideas.
Have you generally noticed that a lot of everything is starting to look the same? Have you ever walked into a new café and felt like you’ve been there before? Do people feel like they all dress alike?
From graphic design and fashion to interior trends, it feels like we’re living in a constant state of design déjà vu. The same safe, polished aesthetics dominate, as if we’ve collectively decided that blending in is better than standing out. Rather than embracing bold, unique expressions, we seem stuck in a cycle of playing it safe, choosing what’s universally accepted over what’s truly authentic or daring.
This raises the question: why are we taking the easy way out?
Personally, I blame the notion of virality.
Have you generally noticed that a lot of everything is starting to look the same? Have you ever walked into a new café and felt like you’ve been there before? Do people feel like they all dress alike?
From graphic design and fashion to interior trends, it feels like we’re living in a constant state of design déjà vu. The same safe, polished aesthetics dominate, as if we’ve collectively decided that blending in is better than standing out. Rather than embracing bold, unique expressions, we seem stuck in a cycle of playing it safe, choosing what’s universally accepted over what’s truly authentic or daring.
This raises the question: why are we taking the easy way out?
Personally, I blame the notion of virality.
Also, consumer behavior plays a significant role in driving this cycle. Many people gravitate toward design that feel familiar and socially validated, creating a demand for trends that are already popular. As a result, designers and brands often take the path of least resistance, sticking to safe, proven ideas rather than risking something bold and original. This convergence between consumer preferences and creative output reinforces the dominance of mainstream aesthetics.
Eugène Ionesco's play "Rhinoceros" comes to mind as it vividly illustrates the peril of conformity and the erosion of individuality as townspeople transform into rhinoceroses.
At TinyBrands, we believe in the power of uniqueness. True design innovation comes from breaking away from the mold and daring to be different. In a landscape saturated with more of the same, it's originality that will stand out.