Style-setters and trend-watchers know that every New Year brings a fresh spate of designs. Some are new incarnations of classic looks and others are down-right revolutionary! As we bid a fond farewell to 2011, here are a few trends that emerged in 2011 and will continue into 2012.

 

 

1. Texture

Stationers want their buyers to “feel” the power of paper and textured styles will continue to draw attention. This Vera Wang invitation from William Arthur features laser-cut Alencon Lace that is layered over a rich, gold background. For more information, visit www.williamarthur.com.

 

 

2. Imperfections

Distressed and worn looks that offer an antique aura have emerged as a strong theme. This mini guest booklet from Oblation Papers measures 5” x 7” and has 12 blank pages. For more information, visit www.oblationpapers.com.

 

3. Bright

The bolder the better could be the catchphrase for the coming year. Buyers are looking for cheery schemes and bright colors will appeal to a broad audience. Smock has a wide array of vivid hues on greetings and other items. For more information, visit www.smockpaper.com.

 

 

4. Patterns

Fascinating color gradients catch the eye and supplement distinct patterns, such as stripes, halftone dots or graphic and emphatic designs. Bold styles like the one featured on this agenda from Jonathan Adler are standouts. For more information, visit www.lifeguardpress.com.

 

 

5. Natural Materials

The green trend will continue in 2012 and consumers are loving paper styles that look eco-friendly and boast a unique texture. Belart is a fair trade and eco-friendly company that offers chic, green greetings. For more information, visit www.belartes.com.

 

6. Origami

The age-old art of folded paper is enjoying resurgence and Shirt Sleeve Greetings has been leading the charge. For more information, visit www.shirtsleevegreetings.com.

 

7. European Influence

Trends in Europe tend to trickle down to the American market across all industries and the stationery marketplace is no different. This Pocket Notebook from Ginko Papers is a perfect example featuring a classic Russian Doll. For more information, visit www.ginkopapers.com.

 

8. Art Deco

The art deco fad has been gaining steam and Wiley Valentine offers a couture take on the trend. Art deco details are blended with a monogram on this chic invite. For more information, visit www.wileyvalentine.com.

 

9. DIY

The Do-it-Yourself craze will continue in 2012 but with modernized twists. Smash Books have presented a scrap book that is a far cry from our mothers’ sentimental tomes. For more information, visit www.eksuccessbrands.com.

 

10. Irreverent

The days of greeting cards having to be saccharine and syrupy are over. Now greeting card designers are finding ways to give their products some bite. Old Tom Foolery puts a cheeky spin on its cards like the ones in its Headlines collection. For more information, visit www.oldtomfoolery.com.

 

11. Ephemeral Accents

Antique items such as typewriters and rotary phones have become popular motifs for stationery. Gilah Press offers its Two Cents greetings that feature such products that have been replaced by modern technology. For more information, visit www.gilahpress.com.

 

12. Silhouette

The silhouette was making more than merely “cameo” appearances throughout the last year in stationery. With the popularity of profiles on invitations and personalized stationery, now silhouettes will enjoy a more modern incarnation such as this invitation from Cleanwash. For more information, visit www.cleanwashletterpress.com.