Some people gravitate toward timeless design, while others prefer to embrace the trends. Does one make a better choice when it comes to sign design for your business? The right choice really depends on your industry, your audience, and how you want to use your signage as marketing.
Both timeless and trendy design can achieve great results for different businesses. Do you offer a classic product or traditional service — or does your brand have a creative or unique personality? The best sign design will reflect your branding efforts.
When to Choose Timeless Sign Design
Here’s a good rule of thumb: choose timeless design to signify that your company is established, reliable, or traditional — not because you expect your new sign design to actually last forever.
The benefits of timeless sign design include:
- Match the expectations that consumers have for your type of business. For example, an Italian restaurant may want a traditional, old-world look.
- Convey a sense of history and permanence. A brand new businesses can potentially use timeless signage to immediately appear established.
- Build brand loyalty over time as your signage does not have to change frequently with the trends.
If the benefits of timeless design match up well with your business and marketing goals, you probably will do well to choose a classic sign design.
When to Choose Trendy Sign Design
Trendy sign design works well if your business wants to appear cutting-edge, fashionable, and perfectly in tune with modern consumer tastes. Great design can follow the trends — and even outlast the trend itself. You might need to redesign your signs years later rather than decades later, but don’t you want fresh and attractive signage all the time anyway?
Benefits of trendy sign:
- Grab attention with something a little unexpected. For example, an Asian fusion restaurant would probably want something more modern and trendy than a traditional restaurant.
- Signify to consumers that your company is forward-thinking with fresh and new products or services.
- Target your real audience by playing into the design trends that appeal to their demographics. This can mean different things for different age groups.
Does your business want to convey something new and different, rather than tried and true? Embrace the trends and make them your own with trendy sign design.
Be Unique, Be Authentic… And Be Clear!
On a final note, remember that great sign design should have a visual impact while clearly conveying your name and message. Don’t let artistry prevent your sign from being easy to see and read from a distance (nor too abstract to be meaningful).
Your primary signage should avoid very flowery fonts, small fonts, and color schemes that make it difficult to make out the brand. Images and themes should clearly demonstrate something about your company and offerings. Pick a theme and design that match your brand and make sure the final sign design emphasizes clarity.
Still pondering your sign design? Ask yourself: would you describe your company itself as timeless or trendy? Stick with one or the other for your new custom signage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between timeless and trendy sign design?
Timeless sign design focuses on classic, enduring aesthetics that convey stability and tradition, while trendy design embraces modern styles that align with current consumer preferences, making the business feel fresh and cutting-edge.
When should I choose a timeless sign design for my business?
Opt for timeless design if you want to convey reliability, heritage, or tradition. It’s ideal for businesses like traditional restaurants or law firms where customers expect an established, trustworthy image.
What are the benefits of a timeless sign design?
A timeless design can match consumer expectations, create a sense of longevity, and build brand loyalty over time as it doesn’t require frequent updates to stay relevant.
How does trendy sign design benefit a business?
Trendy design grabs attention with modern aesthetics and signals to consumers that the business is forward-thinking. It can attract a demographic interested in new and unique experiences, making it popular among innovative brands.
Is a trendy sign design suitable for all businesses?
Not always. Trendy designs work best for businesses wanting a modern image, like tech companies or fashion retailers. For brands with a classic image, a trendy design might feel out of place.
Can a sign be both timeless and trendy?
Yes, some designs combine classic elements with trendy touches to create a hybrid style, but it requires careful balance to avoid confusing the brand message.
How does sign design impact brand perception?
Sign design shapes the first impression of a brand. A clear, well-matched design can increase consumer trust by aligning with brand values—whether traditional or modern.
What are common mistakes in sign design?
Overly artistic designs, small fonts, and unclear messaging can make a sign difficult to read. Prioritizing visual impact without sacrificing readability is crucial for effective signage.
How often should I update a trendy sign design?
Trendy designs may need updates every few years to stay relevant, whereas timeless designs can last for decades without needing changes.
How can I decide between a timeless and trendy design for my business?
Ask whether your brand identity leans more traditional or modern. If your audience values consistency and heritage, a timeless design is likely best. For a younger or trend-oriented audience, a trendy design could better convey your brand’s personality.