The predominant use of mobile devices is one of the factors that drive mobile-friendly eCommerce web design to become a necessity, rather than just a 'fringe' benefit to online sellers and users. With the prominence of mobile devices and users, it is easy to assume that the latest eCommerce web design trends are based on this premise.

Here's a list of eCommerce website design trends we've seen so far:

(1) Responsive design for both mobile device and large screens

While mobile devices may have a direct impact on responsive web design, it's important to design for larger screens as well. This allows further flexibility and more visual impact, particularly for users of widescreen devices such as smart TVs and desktop computers.

Responsive design also enables eCommerce sites to showcase more visually appealing products and use compelling layouts to optimize the design for better user experience and, possibly, higher conversions.

(2)  Hidden menus

Hidden menus are the norm, particularly for mobile devices. This de-clutters the user's view especially when browsing a site using a smaller screen. For eCommerce sites, a hidden menu is essential for showcasing visually appealing products. Whether you're site is optimized for mobile or widescreen computers, using a hidden menu can provide ease and clutter-free navigation for your customers.

(3) Large images

The main goal of eCommerce websites is to sell products. The best products should be presented well and this can only be done by using high-quality images that will catch the attention of customers.

Today, we see a rise in the use of large images, ranging from product photos to site headers and backgrounds. It's more than just a 'wow' factor to use large images in various pages of a website. Visually striking images can cause a stir in a positive way, especially for online sellers of colorful goods. This also means having great product photos to use in order for the images to pop and capture full attention of customers; thus, helping to sell more.  

Don't be surprised to find features and enhancement for image on product pages such as tilting capabilities and 360-degree rotation tools. While the use of 'zoom' feature is still predominant, it actually takes a bit of time for the user to do so; whereas large images are ready for viewing with ease.

(4) Large, flexible typography

Along with large images is large, flexible typography which works very well with responsive design. Many eCommerce sites are now using large typography for added visual impact and customer engagement. Going big and bold with typography is on the rise, but it should also be done with respect to responsiveness to ensure the flow of text works well for both small and large screens.

(5) Tiled navigation

Tiled navigation with great imagery is more appealing to customers, and it’s becoming more and more popular among eCommerce websites.

Tiled navigation offers a preview of each product listed on a single page - making it easier for customers to see more of what you're selling without navigating away from a page. Think of window shopping done online and in a matter of minutes. Higher customer engagement and click throughs are more feasible, especially with the use of high-quality product images and well-written descriptions.

(6) Video content

Video content involves the use of popular platforms such as Vevo and YouTube embedded onto product pages to demonstrate or discuss specific items to customers. Such video platforms are also used for marketing purposes to attract more customers.

PayPal's homepage is a good example of using video content as background. There's a bit of text that mentions the benefits of using PayPal, but we see real people at work or doing business which depicts the typical PayPal user.

The elements of a proper eCommerce website design can help you to sell more, especially if done right and with the future in mind. If your eCommerce site is lagging behind in terms of design and usability, maybe it's time to update it to meet the demands of your customers.

We can help you make an eCommerce website that's both trendy and ready. Get in touch with us today!