Oktoberfest is in full swing, so we thought there’d be no better way to celebrate than with a refreshing look at the world’s best beer packaging trends. Breweries have long been revered as a space for creative experimentation – both in flavor and design.
And with the growing popularity of the craft beer movement, there’s no better time to get in on the game. Today, we’ll take a look at some of the eye-catching styles that make us want to pull a six-pack off the shelves.
1. Kraft paper
The hipster staple has finally made its way to the table. Beloved for its industrial style and unique canvas, this type of packaging blends vintage authenticity with a modern boldness that we absolutely love. Try not to feel cool sipping out of one of these.



2. More authenticity
While some have championed a sort of sterile minimalism in packaging design, with clean white space and crisp curves, others are turning that look on its head.
Scrawled typography, stamping and handwritten notes are giving packaging a raw, personal feel that beer fans are loving.



3. Geometry
We’ve mentioned it before, but geometric patterns and designs are fast growing in popularity. They’re the perfect combination of symmetry and minimalism, taking a more mature approach to the hipster aesthetic. The straight lines and sharp angles dynamically draw the eye through the label in a clean and pleasing way.
With a dash of whimsy and punk rock, these brews are a grounding reminder that beer can be anything but serious.



4. Throwback
Vintage and retro styles are nothing new, but they do seem here to stay. The trick now is standing out from the crowd and finding relevance in a sea of throwback typefaces and kitschy cartoons.
It’s interesting to talk about evolution with a trend that’s trapped in time, but it’s happening over and over – giving the look a new perspective and tying in new, unique elements each time.



5. Wine-like elegance
The comparisons between craft beer and wine culture aren’t lost on designers. Many breweries are ditching the anti-establishment rhetoric in favor of a simpler sophistication that demands respect. This is for the beer served in finer glasses, with tasting notes and loftier prices.



6. Crowlers
The love of canning grows stronger by the minute for breweries. And why not? Cans keep your beer tasting good (less oxygen and light pollution) and the planet happier – not to mention, they’re a heck of a lot more fun to crush at the end.
They’ve become so popular, that Oskar Blues’ proud invention – the Crowler – is making it into the mainstream. It’s an 32-ounce aluminum alternative to the traditional glass growler and a whole new way to approach beer design.
What’s next? Well… maybe a beer shot or two.



Have your eye on any other beer packaging trends? Share them in the comments!
Featured image:Microbrasserie Alchimiste. (via Oh Beautiful Beer)