Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash

Browsing social networks has become a daily source of inspiration for many of us, especially in creative professions. As a UI designer with a passion for the harmony between aesthetics and functionality, I spend considerable time scrutinizing trends, searching for that spark of innovation that could revolutionize my projects.

However, I can’t help but notice a concerning trend: the emergence of what I like to call “fake” UI designers.

These creators produce designs that, at first glance, seem revolutionary. Their mockups are a festival of vibrant colors, stunning visual effects, and such stylized aesthetics that they become mesmerizing. But behind this attractive facade often lies a very different reality: these designs sorely lack functionality, meaning, and sometimes even a basic understanding of UX principles that should guide any UI design project.

The aim of this article is not to diminish the importance of aesthetics in UI design but rather to encourage deeper reflection on what constitutes a good design. Through these lines, I wish to share my vision of UI design: a discipline where visual elegance meets utility, where every aesthetic element plays a role in the overall user experience. After all, is a design that does not serve the end user truly a design?

The Allure of Aesthetics in UI Design

Photo by Ion (Ivan) Sipilov on Unsplash

UI design is a field where aesthetics play a crucial role. Not only does it contribute to the first impression a user has of an application or website, but it also influences their overall perception of the brand. However, this strong emphasis on the visual aspect has its own pitfalls, notably when aesthetics take precedence over functionality.

Why are we drawn to beauty? It’s undeniable that humans are naturally attracted to what is aesthetically pleasing. Designs that use bright colors, sophisticated gradients, and smooth animations can easily capture our attention. In the realm of UI design, these elements can be used to guide the user’s eye, highlight important actions, and enhance the overall experience. However, the danger…