What do Stranger Things, Minecraft, and graphic design have in common? The 80s never really left us.

Designers are diving headfirst into pixel aesthetics, bringing back the charm of 8-bit design with a modern twist. It’s more than just nostalgia; it’s a conscious nod to simplicity in a hypercomplex world.

Lacoste ’s collaboration with Minecraft earlier this year is a perfect example. The campaign fused classic gaming elements with fashion, creating a buzzworthy collection that appealed to both Gen Z gamers and millennial nostalgia-seekers. It’s not just branding; it’s cultural storytelling.

But why does pixel art still resonate in 2024? Perhaps it’s the tactile, human quality of imperfection in a digital landscape that often feels too sleek. As someone who loves blending the old and the new in my work, I see this as a reminder that “less” can still say so much—if it’s rooted in authenticity.

Are you team pixel or ready to leave retro in the past?