As the new year kicks off, web designers are already experimenting with bold approaches that blend form, function, and flair. January’s standout trends—embracing circles, oversized background text, and high‑drama visuals—offer fresh ways to capture attention and guide users through digital experiences. Here’s a look at each movement and tips for putting them to work.
1. The Return of the Circle
Circles bring harmony, focus, and a touch of playfulness to layouts dominated by rectangular viewports and hard‑edged elements. Their smooth curves naturally draw the eye and invite interaction. Three inspiring examples:
- Yzavoku’s Expanding Portfolio
Tiny circular thumbnails expand on hover, encouraging clicks. This breaks free from the standard grid, turning a portfolio into an exploratory game. - Te Whare Taonga’s Hidden Eggs
Here, visible and concealed circles serve as interactive “Easter eggs.” Scattered across the page, they prime visitors to click, tapping into users’ curiosity. - Landways’ Navigational Orbs
Circles double as menu icons, directional cues, and even logo treatments. By repeating the shape in key spots (including the hamburger icon and animated footer logo), the design feels cohesive and intuitive.
How to use circles:
- Frame key images or CTAs in circular masks.
- Create hover‑to‑expand effects for interactive thumbnails.
- Use circular icons for navigation to reinforce brand consistency.
2. Oversized Background Text
Massive, low‑contrast words set behind primary content make a bold statement—though they require careful execution to avoid readability pitfalls. They work best when paired with subtle animations or layered imagery:
- Agency Eats
Scrolling headlines glide behind a static hero photo. Even if visitors don’t read every word, the motion and scale add energy and context. - Dao For Design
Full-screen panels switch between three image‑and‑text combos. Background text ties each scene together, while smaller captions supply clarity. - Ann Frol
Enormous text anchors the page, with whimsical illustrations and bouncing balls layered on top. The playful motion hints at the designer’s personality without sacrificing simplicity.
How to use oversized text:
- Keep contrast moderate so background words don’t compete with primary copy.
- Animate letterforms or line shifts to add subtle dynamism.
- Pair with minimal foreground elements to maintain focus.
3. High‑Drama Imagery and Video
Nothing commands attention like a striking photo or cinematic video in the hero section. This trend demands planning—scouting locations, hiring photographers or videographers, and considering lighting—but the payoff can be immense:
- And More
A still shot of climbers on a mountain peak conveys emotion and narrative. Paired with bold headlines, it leaves a lasting impression. - Cinco Jotas
Moody, slow‑motion footage of artisanal ham elevates the product, making viewers feel the luxury and craftsmanship. - Scout
A sunrise montage over rugged vehicles sets an adventurous tone. The sequence transitions into dynamic driving shots, selling both product and lifestyle.
How to use dramatic visuals:
- Invest in original photography or stock that feels authentic, not generic.
- Consider cinematic techniques—slow motion, depth of field, dynamic framing—to heighten impact.
- Use color grading or filters to create mood when original footage isn’t available.
Bringing It All Together
These trends—circles, background text, and dramatic imagery—aren’t mutually exclusive. You might:
- Frame a high‑drama hero video in a circular viewport.
- Layer oversized, animated text behind interactive circular thumbnails.
- Use a circle mask on a still image of climbers, with sweeping background headlines.
The key is balance. Circles soften; text energizes; imagery captivates. Combined thoughtfully, they can transform a static webpage into an engaging journey.
Pro tip: Start small. A single circular element or a short background loop can hint at these trends without overhauling your entire design system. Then gauge user reaction and iterate.
2025’s visual language is about mixing shapes, scale, and motion to craft memorable digital moments. Whether you lean into the playful geometry of circles, the bold statement of oversized text, or the emotional pull of dramatic visuals, January’s trends offer plenty of fuel for creativity. Now: go forth and design!
