Spruce up your designs with these '90s-inspired trends

"Hip" and "cool" items from the '90s are making a comeback in different forms of media. The fashion, designs, and technology from the era are becoming popular again thanks to the rediscovery of many. Photographer and designer Ram V Chary shares some ways you can infuse the '90s vibe into your designs.

Try bold prints

When you ask someone about the '90s, they usually remember the bold prints. Whether these are colorful shapes, stripes, or animal prints, these characterized the era's fashion and design. When using it with text, it's alright for both elements to be bold and bright as long as it is still readable.

Mix neon and pastel

The '80s were characterized by neon colors that continued in the '90s with the emergence of glow-in-the-dark products. However, pastel colors also became the trend. If you want to create a design that will remind people of the era, bring a neon and pastel color scheme together. You'll be surprised at its nostalgic effect.

Bring back classic fonts

Ram V Chary says fonts reminiscent of one's handwriting, such as Comic Sans or typewritten fonts like Courier, were very popular back in the '90s. Other classic MS Office fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, Franklin Gothic, and Gil Sans were also widely used. For the best effect, use WordArt, where you can add shadow, combine colors, and highlight your text.

Include popular objects

Stickers, cartoon flowers, cassette tapes, smileys, beads, glitters, chunky sneakers, and classic video games are some of the items that will remind people of the '90s. You can include them in the graphic, turn them into background prints, or use them as a focal point where you can put your text or message.

Maximize your space

These days, it's all about minimalism. But if you want a throwback vibe for your graphic, you must go all out. Bring all the colors, shapes, objects, and fonts together to create a grand design. While the '90s is about maximizing your space, remember to emphasize the object you want as the focus. Don't be afraid to go out of the box and be loud—this is what the '90s is all about, says Ram V Chary.