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Creative Gaga Issue 72 Weighs Global Design Trends Against Local Identity

opinion-review · 2026-10-01

In Issue 72 of Creative Gaga, a perspective is presented that highlights how, prior to the internet, local culture significantly influenced design across various regions, allowing each area to cultivate its unique visual identity. The article argues that the internet, especially social media, now provides designers with constant exposure to global work, resulting in rapid trend dissemination and a proliferation of similar aesthetics and references. The author acknowledges that while following trends is not inherently negative, design must progress over time, and awareness of international trends is crucial for relevance. However, not every trend is worth pursuing, as some fade quickly, while others endure by enhancing communication, solving problems, or resonating with collective sentiments. Distinguishing between transient and lasting trends is deemed an essential skill for designers. This viewpoint is featured in the Print Edition of Issue 72, with a subscription link available through Razorpay for complete access to the article and additional content.

Key facts

  • The viewpoint appears in the Print Edition of Issue 72 of Creative Gaga.
  • Before the internet, design from different parts of the world was much more influenced by local culture.
  • Every region developed its own distinct visual style before global digital exposure.
  • The internet and social media expose designers constantly to work from around the world.
  • Trends now spread almost instantly, producing similar aesthetics, references and executions.
  • The author states design should evolve with time and that global awareness aids relevance.
  • Some trends disappear as quickly as they come; others stay because they help communicate better, solve a problem, give projects more character, or lean into a collective feeling.
  • Distinguishing fleeting from lasting trends is framed as an important skill for designers.

Entities

Institutions

  • Creative Gaga

Sources