Visual experiences are becoming increasingly important—static elements are disappearing, making way for dynamic, captivating design concepts. To stand out creatively in 2025, brands must embrace a mix of nostalgia and innovation: deep-layered collages, emotional animations, creative typography, and the perfect balance between minimalism and maximum impact.
Which trends will dominate the world of animated content in 2025? We’ve identified six key developments shaping video marketing and illustration.
Trend 1: Collage & Conceptual – Illustrations That Surprise
A trend that started gaining traction in 2024 is now reaching new heights: collage-style visuals that may seem random at first glance but are actually carefully crafted and conceptual. This approach goes beyond simply layering images, textures, and typography—it introduces a fresh way of visual storytelling.
Why is this style exciting for video marketing?
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Dynamic visual variety: A mix of textures and styles creates engaging contrasts.
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Depth and multidimensionality: Layered compositions provide an immersive experience.
- Emotional effect: The collage aesthetic conveys authenticity and creativity.
Best use cases: Explainer videos with a distinctive look, social media clips, and branding videos.
Author: Mellow Studio
Trend 2: Storytelling Animation – More Emotion, Less Icons
Icons and static infographics are fading into the background, making way for fluid, narrative-driven animations. Motion design is no longer just about explaining—it’s about storytelling. The focus is on engaging viewers emotionally and guiding them through a story that feels personal and immersive.
What makes this trend stand out?
- More emotion: Emotionally driven storytelling captures attention longer.
- Deep characters: Character design and facial expressions will be more detailed to convey more personality.
- Cinematic animations: Dynamic camera movements and editing techniques ensure a high-quality experience.
Best use cases: Corporate videos, animated brand stories, and explainer videos with a human touch.
Author: Banco de Portugal – Project: O Banco de Portugal apresenta SPIN
Trend 3: Kinetic Typography – Words in Motion
Author: Maunna – Project: TWIST – Kinetic Typography Poster
Also known as kinetic typography, this trend transforms text into a dynamic design element. Instead of static captions, text elements move, shift, and interact with other visual components—becoming an integral part of the storytelling.
Why does this trend matter?
- Dynamic infographics: Facts and figures come to life through movement.
- Interactive text effects: Words react to sound, image or user interactions.
- More attention: Animated text draws the eye and increases engagement.
Best use cases: Title sequences, lyric videos, product promos, and animated explainer videos.
Trend 4: Nostalgic Design – Retro Meets Modern Motion
The past meets the future: nostalgic aesthetics, inspired by the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, are being reimagined with fluid, contemporary animation techniques. This fusion creates a visually appealing contrast that resonates emotionally with different generations.
Why is nostalgic design so effective?
- Emotional connection: The look evokes memories and creates strong brand loyalty.
- Eye-catching aesthetics: Perfect for social media – retro animations catch the eye.
- Modern implementation: Glitch and neon effects paired with fluid animations create a unique video experience.
Best use cases: Social media clips, ad campaigns, brand storytelling, and animated commercials with a throwback aesthetic.
Author: Videodesign
Trend 5: Minimize to Maximize – Less is More, But Better
Minimalism continues to evolve, but in 2025, it’s not just about simplicity—it’s about achieving maximum impact with the fewest elements. Clean layouts, subtle animations, and carefully chosen focal points create a sophisticated, high-end feel.
Why is this trend powerful?
- Instant clarity: Viewers grasp the message quickly.
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Premium aesthetics: Reduced movements look modern and high-quality.
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Clear visual hierarchy: Perfect for explanatory videos – no distractions, only the message counts.
Best use cases: Explainer videos, branding videos, UX/UI animations.
Author: Ento Incognito – Project: WTF is going on with custom keyboard
Trend 6: 3D in 2D - when surface meets depth
An exciting trend in 2025 is the seamless combination of 2D illustrations and 3D renderings within a visual composition. Instead of choosing one style, the two are creatively merged. Imagine a 3D-rendered smartphone surrounded by hand-drawn 2D illustrations that highlight its features. This contrast creates a unique, modern aesthetic that is both appealing and memorable.
Why is this trend so effective?
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The best of both worlds: 3D brings realism, 2D adds personality and storytelling.
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Playful & informative: Illustrated elements make complex content easier to understand.
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Versatile: Perfect for explanatory videos, product animations and branding.
Areas of application: Product videos (e.g. a 3D-rendered device with illustrated UI elements), explanatory videos and brand communication with an artistic touch.
Author: Tigran Manukyan –Project : Traveling Luggage in 3D & 2D
Conclusion about the Explainer Video Trends 2025
Animation is becoming bolder, more emotional and more immersive.
In 2025, design is all about movement, storytelling, and emotion. Whether through deep-layered collages, expressive typography, or nostalgic aesthetics, brands that embrace these trends will create unforgettable visual experiences.
Let our design team help you find your style and create a video that will excite your target audience and make your brand shine! Contact us and we will advise you individually.
Schedule a free consultation with our video experts.
Together we simplify your communication.
Dustin Bättig | CEO
