Art Deco is a design style that embodies luxury and modernity. From architecture and typography to branding and packaging, its bold geometric shapes, sleek lines, and rich decorative details create a striking visual appeal. We have compiled anything you should know about art deco graphic design characteristics.
Key Takeaways
- Art Deco is defined by strong geometric shapes, symmetrical patterns, and sleek lines that create a striking and sophisticated look.
- With metallic accents, rich color palettes, and intricate details, this style conveys a sense of opulence and refinement.
- Art Deco influences everything from architecture and typography to branding and packaging, making it a timeless choice for various design fields.
- While rooted in the early 20th century, Art Deco can be effortlessly combined with modern elements to create designs that feel both classic and contemporary.
What is Art Deco?
Art Deco, derived from Arts Décoratifs, was a highly influential design movement that originated in France before World War I and flourished globally throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Characterized by bold geometric patterns and streamlined forms, this style left its mark on architecture, interior design, fashion, and industrial design.
From skyscrapers and ocean liners to jewelry, furniture, and household objects, Art Deco elevated everyday items to works of art through its fusion of classical motifs and modern materials.
Art Deco Graphic Design History
The roots of Art Deco trace back to late 19th-century France, where decorative artists were formally recognized in 1875. This newfound status led to the formation of the Society of Decorative Arts in 1901, elevating their work to the level of fine art. Meanwhile, Italy held its first decorative arts expo in 1902.
By the early 20th century, Art Deco gained momentum as a response to the rising popularity of affordable German furniture. French designers, fashion houses, and luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Cartier embraced the style, incorporating rich materials such as silk, ivory, and ebony alongside vibrant geometric motifs.
The movement extended to architecture, with Auguste Perret’s Théâtre des Champs-Élysées (1913) becoming one of its first major landmarks. Cubism significantly influenced Art Deco, particularly after the 1912 Cubist House exhibition in Paris.
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Art Deco Graphic Design Characteristics
Art Deco captivates the imagination because it merges diverse and sometimes contrasting styles into a unified, visually striking aesthetic. Here are art deco graphic design characteristics that you should know.
- Geometric shapes
- Ancient or non-western inspiration
- Craftsmanship
- Stylized figures
- Zigzags
- Straight and smooth lines
- Symmetrical patterns
- Use of layers
- Striking colors with accents and contrasts
- Stepped forms
- Luxurious materials
- Using modern materials
- Aerodynamic curves
- Metallic colors like gold and chrome
On its own, this list may seem somewhat arbitrary and could easily describe various other art styles. What truly defines a design as Art Deco, however, lies in more abstract qualities that go beyond mere visual elements.
Art Deco Graphic Design Elements
Characterized by strong geometric patterns, streamlined typography, rich color palettes, and symmetrical compositions, Art Deco brings a sense of luxury and sophistication to visual design. Here are a few elements that you should know.
1. Vertical Design Elements
Art Deco buildings are designed to emphasize height, often featuring towering skyscrapers and sleek spires. This vertical effect is created using stepped setbacks, strong vertical lines, and decorative details that guide the eye upward.
2. Geometric Shapes
Art Deco architecture is defined by bold geometric shapes and patterns, including curves, straight lines, chevrons, and triangles. These elements are often repeated throughout the design, appearing in doorways, facades, and decorative details to create an aesthetic look.
3. Ornate Design
Art Deco is famous for its rich and intricate decoration, reflecting the era’s sophistication and luxury. Buildings often feature detailed carvings, bas-reliefs, and stylized motifs inspired by ancient cultures, nature, and geometric patterns.
4. Symmetrical Design
Symmetry is a defining feature of Art Deco architecture, creating a sense of order and harmony. Buildings often have balanced proportions, with facades designed around mirrored patterns and repeating motifs.
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Art Deco Graphic Design Examples
Art Deco graphic design is instantly recognizable for its bold, elegant, and luxurious aesthetic. Here are a few standout examples to inspire your designs.
1. The Great Gatsby Movie Posters
The 2013 poster, in particular, embraces the era’s opulence with bold geometric patterns, gold accents, and sleek typography, making it a striking representation of the style’s luxurious aesthetic.
2. Vanity Fair Magazine
The magazine’s use of Art Deco design extended beyond just visuals, influencing its overall aesthetic and reinforcing its reputation for elegance and high society appeal. Even today, Vanity Fair continues to draw inspiration from this timeless style.
3. Art Deco for Typography
Popular fonts like Broadway and Peignot capture the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s, making them perfect for posters, branding, and luxury designs.
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4. Art Deco for Branding
Whether in logos, or advertisements, Art Deco branding makes a strong visual statement that feels both classic and modern.
5. Art Deco for Packaging
Art Deco packaging is all about luxury, elegance, and eye-catching design. It features bold geometric patterns, rich color contrasts, metallic accents, and sleek typography.
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Now You Know Art Deco Graphic Design Characteristics!
Art Deco is a style that can add elegance to your design. By blending its bold geometric patterns and luxurious details with modern elements, you can create a look that feels timeless. This fusion allows for a unique and refined aesthetic that stands out across various design applications.
As seen above, Art Deco also pairs beautifully with typography, making font selection crucial to achieving the right aesthetic. Movink Graphic offers premium vintage graphic assets that can effortlessly enhance your design.
Simply choose a suitable font that complements your theme, and you’ll achieve a timeless vintage look. Explore all the fonts, and get the best vintage design now!