While none of us had 2020 vision for what this year would bring, there’s no denying that – even in the face of a global crisis – creativity prevails!​

Halfway through one of the most unpredictable years in history, we caught up with our experts to discover the trends they expected, the ones they didn’t, and the trends that no one could have anticipated.

Since originally making a comeback in 2019, we’ve spotted more and more retro designs dominating the design space. Many brands, artists and designers have embraced the resurgence of retro with open arms, combining the nostalgic familiarity of the old with the modern edge of the new.

Top Throwback Templates:
• Retro Poster Photoshop Action (pictured)
• Cyberpunk Lightroom Presets
• 80s Retro Text Effects
• Alter Ego Halftone Photoshop Effect

A close relative of live video, vertical video is continuing to trend this year. It’s no secret that IGTV and TikTok are quickly becoming some of the most popular formats for live videos, and both favor the vertical format.

Go Vertical With These Videos:
• Instagram Stories (pictured)
• Instagram Live
• Phone App Presentation
• Minimal Promo Slideshows Pack

Thanks to the constant evolution of tech, freelancing and self-serve culture, the Gig Economy has been a big trend for 2020. 

'Food Delivery', 'Freelance', 'Delivery App', and 'Home Service App' have been trending on CodeCanyon and ThemeForest, and – in a climate where many are unable to leave their homes to eat, socialise or work – it’s easy to understand why!

Grab Your Next Big Gig:
• Foodomaa - Multi-restaurant Food Ordering App (pictured)
• Food Delivery Flutter + PHP Laravel Admin Panel
• Felix Travel - React Native Travel App
• Android App Builder

According to Envato's Audio Specialist Adrien Gardner, one of the biggest audio trends for 2020 so far has actually been ‘happy’ – proving that even in times of darkness, we will always find the light. 

“Mid 2020, it’s interesting to see that “Happy” has overtaken “Corporate” as far as what’s most in demand,” says Adrien. 

Turn Up The Good Vibes:
• Energetic Fun Summer Party Pop
• Happy Hip-Hop Upbeat
• Be Happy
• Summer Upbeat Future Bass

As environmental issues and awareness continue to influence and impact our everyday lives, terms relating to nature and the environment are fast becoming an ‘evergreen’ content area for stock photos. 

“During these challenging economic times, many are still very preoccupied by environmental issues and raise valid questions around the importance the environment should have in the global economic recovery (renewable energy, air quality, natural resources, etc),” says Photos Specialist, Gaby Jalbert.

Set a Green Scene:
• Picking Vegetables From The Garden (pictured)
• Botanical Environment Pottery
• Woman Potting Succulents
• Two Gardeners in Botanical Greenhouse

The Trends Don't End Here...

Browse the full mid-year trend review for 2020 now.