5 Minimal Packaging Design Ideas

 Minimalistic packaging designs give your packaging a clean, modern look while highlighting key aspects of your brand. Get 5 minimalist packaging design ideas that will help your brand stand out and give your customers a lasting impression.

The KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle highlights the idea that sometimes the best designs are the simplest ones. This concept applies not only to general design but also to packaging. Minimalism, which gained popularity in the 1950s, has become a dominant trend in recent years, with its "less is more" philosophy proving to be effective in capturing attention without sacrificing visual appeal.

Whether applied to the artwork on the packaging or the structure of the box itself, minimalism brings an element of purity, sophistication, and elegance while maintaining functionality and efficiency. Here are five best practices to consider when designing minimal packaging.

Focus on the logo

In minimalist design, less is more, and when it comes to branded packaging, your logo should take center stage. By choosing to feature only your logo against a simple, plain background, you keep the focus squarely on your brand identity. This approach not only makes your logo more memorable but also increases brand recognition, helping it stand out in a sea of competitors within the same industry.

Six Realms Magnetic Rigid Box with Rose Gold Foil Stamping

Six Realms chose to use gold foil stamping for their logo on a plain background. This design choice not only makes the gold logo stand out but also keeps the customer's attention focused on it. The sleek and sophisticated look of the box perfectly aligns with the brand's values, adding a touch of elegance while maintaining the simplicity of the minimalist approach.

Monochromes

If your company has a brand color or specific shades that are consistently used across your products and social media posts, it’s a great idea to carry that consistency into your packaging. For instance, the color teal is immediately associated with Tiffany’s, whose iconic box design is recognizable worldwide. Tiffany's doesn't just use this color in their packaging but also integrates it into their website and Instagram pages, creating a cohesive brand identity. Similarly, you can incorporate vibrant colors from your brand’s palette into your packaging to reinforce recognition and strengthen your brand image.

Source: Designer-Vintage

While bright colors can be an excellent choice, don’t hesitate to stick to white monochrome palettes. White is often linked to minimalism and symbolizes purity and positivity. Anksia is an example of a brand that uses white boxes to reflect its brand values of simple luxury—a luxury that is tactile yet approachable. The clean, elegant appearance of white packaging helps convey sophistication without overwhelming the customer, making it a timeless choice for many brands.

Anksia Custom Mailer Boxes

Clear/see-through packaging

Clear or see-through packaging is an excellent way to incorporate color and excitement while maintaining a minimalist approach. By using transparent panels, you give customers a sneak peek into your product, which not only piques their curiosity but also enhances the unboxing experience. This type of packaging can showcase the product's quality and design while keeping the overall packaging clean and simple. It’s a great way to add visual interest without cluttering the design.

Source: Nikita Konkin (Behance)

This creative concept titled ‘Good Hair Day Pasta’ by Greenomic uses a simple white folding carton box with a see-through window, offering customers a glimpse of the pasta inside. The use of the transparent window cleverly highlights the product, allowing the packaging to remain minimalistic without the need for additional design elements. The simplicity of the box paired with the clear window creates a functional and aesthetically pleasing design, drawing attention to the product while maintaining a clean, modern look.

Less material

Minimalism can be applied not just to the design but also to the materials used in your packaging. Opting for less material not only reduces costs but also minimizes waste and encourages sustainability. Kraft boxes are an excellent choice if you're looking for something that is both aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly. These boxes give off a natural, rustic charm while being biodegradable, offering a win-win for both your brand and the environment.

Chezza Folding Carton Box and Mailer Box

Display exactly what is needed

To embrace minimalism, it’s crucial to strip away anything that isn’t essential. Focus on including only the necessary elements, such as your brand name, logo, and key information. This could involve reducing the number of colors, eliminating excess text, or removing any design features that don’t serve a functional purpose. The result is a clean, simple design that effectively communicates your brand without overwhelming your customers.

Source: Istore. graphic (Dribble)

In the case of this tea company, the only thing included on their box is the name of the product and the ingredients. This provides the customers with exactly what they need to know, without the clutter of unnecessary information.

Minimal packaging continues to be a growing trend in various industries, including packaging design. If you choose to go for a minimal approach, make sure to keep these best practices in mind. Let yourself be inspired, and start designing your packaging today!