14 Print-on-Demand Design Ideas to Try in 2025

Print-on-demand is evolving faster than ever, and this year’s design trends are a testament to that. Gone are the days of traditional print styles—2025 is all about pushing boundaries.

Think 3D designs intertwined with stylish typography, the bold allure of geometric shapes, and the timeless charm and style of natural patterns and textures. If you’ve ever dreamt of starting a clothing brand, the time is now.

Whether you’re already in the print-on-demand business or on the verge of launching, one thing is clear: the world of custom apparel is thriving, evolving, and waiting for your unique touch.

14 POD design ideas to try in 2025

If you’re looking to create designs that echo popular culture or seeking inspo from fashion runways, there’s plenty to explore. The key is to keep things fresh, stay updated with emerging styles, and let your art do the talking. 

Below you can explore trending ideas for print-on-demand designs and see how they’ll help you freshen up your brand.

1. AI dreamscapes

Dive into the world of AI-generated art, where surreal landscapes and fantastical creatures blur the lines between reality and imagination. This trend taps into the rising fascination with artificial intelligence and its artistic capabilities, showcasing otherworldly scenes, vibrant colors, and fluid forms that seem almost too perfect to be human-made. 

AI dreamscapes are perfect for creating unique digital designs on tees, totes, and all-over print items like leggings. It’s a trend that appeals to many, but especially those intrigued by cutting-edge technology and futuristic aesthetics.

2. Tween boys’ twilight forest rave 

This style is a unique blend of psychedelic, nature, and rave aesthetics, perfect for capturing Gen Z’s experimental, eclectic style. Think designs that feature neon mushrooms, glowing wildlife, and mystical forest scenes set against bold, vibrant colors. 

This trend aligns well with custom all-over-print t-shirts, hoodies, and even accessories like rave-ready drawstring bags or hats. The combination of surreal nature and electric party vibes makes it a standout for youth apparel and accessories that pop, particularly in casual streetwear collections.

3. Dark feminine energy 

This powerful design trend embraces gothic, witchy aesthetics with a glamorous twist. Think deep wine-colored lips, smudged eyeliner, and dark, moody clothing like corsets and leather. This look pairs perfectly with print-on-demand items like custom bomber jackets, structured tees, and accessories like tote bags and hats. 

Use intricate detailing, dark florals, or goth themes to capture this mysterious, alluring vibe. It’s perfect for customers seeking bold, unapologetic expressions of confidence and style.

4. Groovy patterns

The ’70s are back in full swing! Take inspiration from the late 1970s and experiment with abstract pattern ideas. Groovy designs are best known for bright and vibrant colors, ombres, swirls and twirls, psychedelic illustrations, and nature motifs. 

Peace symbols, flowers (especially daisies), suns, and bubbly letters are common icons. By using these art ideas, your designs will take t-shirt printing to the next level. And who knows, it may even become one of your bestselling t-shirt design trends.

Groovy designs will look marvelous on all-over print items like custom t-shirts, dresses, and totes. But you can try out these print ideas on shoes, mugs, and blankets too!

5. Ombre and gradients

Vibrant ombre styles aren’t limited to groovy ’70s designs. The style now involves a spectrum of different hues, with gradient designs becoming a staple in popular culture and everyday wear. Think of a sunset ombre t-shirt, where the colors transition from soft to vibrant, reminiscent of the captivating summer nights. Custom t-shirt designs are all the rage!

Other design ideas? Ombre and gradient styles will also look epic on accessories like backpacks and beanies. But for the ultimate feel, design different all-over-print items and see what looks best on your store.

Source: Etsy

6. Moody florals

While florals remain a fresh summertime favorite, 2025 brings a welcome twist. Envision florals but with a gothic edge: darker, moodier designs set against backgrounds of black or gray, creating a contrast that evokes the style of icons like Wednesday Addams.

In fact, designs like this should sell pretty well on your store no matter your target audience—dark colors never go out of style. Don’t be afraid to test and create collections inspired by popular characters and high-fashion brands. Many ideas translate well to hoodie or t-shirt design ideas, for example.

7. Grungy plaid

Punk’s still alive! The resurgence of grunge style means flannel and plaid are back and bolder than ever. Custom hoodies in grungy plaids are creating a sales boom, showcasing how old styles can evolve with a contemporary touch.  

This trend can freshen up your store’s offering if your designs are typically something completely different. Try plaids or other grungy designs on all-over-print t-shirts, skirts, dresses, and even shoes. Nostalgia will hit hard with this one!

8. Maximalism

Step away from minimalism! Dopamine dressing, marked by colorful and mismatched prints, is in vogue. Design styles from the Y2K and grunge aesthetic have paved the way for trends like cluttercore and oversized silhouettes. For example, designing an oversized hoodie and accessories like hats and totes will help your brand bring this trend to life.

It’s all about embracing the fun in fashion—mix colors, words, your logo, and everything in between to make your design as eye-catching as possible. All-over print is the perfect method to execute your design ideas for this trend.

9. Coordinated prints

Monochrome print magic is dominating here. Think bold colors, matching sets, and layering. Double denim looks and outfits in primary colors are making monochromatic print designs a profitable niche in the print-on-demand world. The popularity of these styles underlines the significance of coordinating prints to bring this trend to life.

Remember to create matching sets—try designing different pieces that work well together. For example, oversized t-shirts, shorts, or a skirt, and accessories like hats and totes. Try monochromatic looks, primary colors, and similar shapes and graphics on each piece to see how well these designs sell on your store.

Source: Printful 

10. Quiet luxury

This trend marks a transition to more elevated basics. It’s focused on timeless designs and “dressing like the rich,” but the modern take on this style is more geared toward t-shirts than polo shirts. It’s about items that look high-end yet remain wearable. 

And you can even sell quiet luxury pieces with print-on-demand. Try creating a vibrant athleisure style with pants, leggings, shirts, sweatshirts, and more. And you don’t have to go all out with your art on this one—it’s OK to just embroider or print your logo. Focus on colors and style!

11. Plant prints

The green revolution isn’t just for the outdoors. Plant illustrations are making their presence felt in the home & living domain. And it’s not just the usual leaves and florals. “Artichoke art,” for instance, is taking center stage with a whopping 50% YoY growth in searches. Fun t-shirt design idea, anyone?

From blooming artichokes gracing pillows to unique designs on cards and wall art, this trend is fresh, vibrant, and a testament to the innovative spirit of print-on-demand. It’s proof that taking cues from nature and putting a spin on them can be a profitable niche in the market.

12. Vintage vibes

Everything old becomes new again, and vintage patterns are proof. “Toile art” has seen a staggering 80% YoY growth in searches, signaling its rising popularity. 

You’ll find these charming, old-world designs adorning mugs, candles, and other cozy items around the home. The allure of these colors, graphics, and art lies in their ability to evoke nostalgia while fitting seamlessly into contemporary home decor.

13. Moon motifs

Lunar themes are taking over print-on-demand. With a stellar 63% YoY growth in searches for “moon phase wall decor,” it’s becoming easier to sell outer-space-inspired home & living items. But if you’re looking for fresh t-shirt ideas, this could be just the ticket.

Whether it’s cozy tees depicting different moon phases or star-themed blankets wrapping you in celestial comfort, the fascination with the cosmos is evident. This trend showcases the idea that inspiration is everywhere, even in the vast expanse of the night sky.

14. Mermaidcore

Would you like to dive deep into the ocean’s wonders without leaving home? With mermaidcore art, you can. This trend, characterized by coastal themes combined with iridescent and scalloped elements, is making waves.

And it’s not just limited to wall art or custom swimsuits. With a 42% YoY growth in “terrazzo tray” searches, it’s evident that this trend is all about blending the charm of the sea with everyday items like mugs, coasters, towels, and notebooks. And the designs look fun too!

Create your own design style

In 2025, design trends for print-on-demand stand out with a multitude of innovative and artistic ideas. 

This year’s design trends push designers to create and experiment with eye-catching styles, fresh ideas, and nostalgic throwbacks. Whether it’s the vibrant mix of colors and graphics in apparel or the cozy-yet-trendy vibes in home & living, the market is teeming with opportunities for those keen on staying ahead of the competition with trending products.

Learn more: 12 Emerging Print-on-Demand Business Ideas to Get Started with Right Now

For those looking to venture into this exciting market or are already deep in the game, staying updated with the latest design trends is crucial. But it’s equally important to remember that every trend starts with an idea. Whether you’re drawing inspo from modern designs, personal style, or simply creative ideas, let your art be original. Be you!

So to every designer, artist, and entrepreneur: dive into the trends, have fun with your creations, and let your design stand out. After all, in the world of print-on-demand, your designs are as limitless as your imagination.

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