Features

The issues of our troubled times often feel infinite. On any given day, these may include (but are certainly not limited to): recession fears, high interest rates, various climate catastrophes, inflation, price gouging, gun violence and the war in Ukraine, to say nothing of a pandemic-turned-endemic, that is a constant, feverish presence in our midst.

No income level is immune from uncertainty, explained Stephen Rogers, managing director at Deloitte Insights Consumer Industry Center. “When it comes to high earners’ feelings of financial well-being, they are tracking pretty evenly along with those who earn less.”

Thus, the overall theme of my 2023 stationery abecedary is approachable, affordable finds that directly reflect what’s on our minds. Never has slowing down, simplifying and connecting felt like such a national pastime, as will quickly become clear as I recite this design alphabet!

A. ACTIVISM.

The stacked book trend has naturally progressed into anti-book-ban verbiage, but it’s just one of many political movements currently starring in stationery.

B. BARBIECORE.

While this trend will probably cool in apparel quickly, expect Barbie-esque, pop-culture allusions to resonate in stationery for some time.

C. CROCHET.

Whether created DIY or bought off the shelf, these texture-rich finds hearken back to simpler, homespun times.

D. DANGEROUS.

What’s the most powerful solution for troubling times? For some, it’s to adopt equally risky traits to counteract it.

E. EMBROIDERY.

Here’s another domestic art living its best 21st-century life, thanks to all-inclusive kits that make creating polished pieces a snap.

F. FARM FRESH.

Just as many enjoy the wholesome produce from farmer’s markets, they also appreciate slowing down to connect with loved ones. Smart messaging that speaks to both elements combines the best of both worlds!

G. GLIMMERS.

These are those tiny, often overlooked moments of happiness life throws our way. So, seek that which highlights the wonders of the everyday.

H. THE HELPERS.

Teacher appreciation is starting to assert itself as a distinct card-sending occasion, but that which honors any caregiver is most welcome at the card table.

I. ILLUMINATED.

For some, simpler times mean medieval times, full of fancy flourishes. Now these artisanal elements help create a personal brand.

J. JAPAN-OBSESSED.

From wabi-sabi to more pop-culture elements like Dagashi sweets, design elements from the Land of the Rising Sun proliferate.

K. KINSHIP.

Authentically showing up for those we love is never unfashionable — but makers verbalizing these sentiments with charm and flair is the current height of style!

L. LA VIDA LATINX.

The Hispanic population is expected to triple in size between 2005 and 2050, swelling to 29%. It’s just common sense, then, to integrate smart selections that directly speak to it.

M. MAXIMALISM.

Most of us are familiar with the quiet luxury that is minimalism. For those who find it bland, these over- the-top, fanciful selections present a welcome antidote.

N. NEGATIVE SPACE.

That which plays on this idea, or changes dramatically when used, exhibits an easy-to-attain sophistication.

O. OUTLIER.

New ideas and treatments have never been so receptively received; if you are considering taking a risk, now is the time!

P. PLANTER.

These bring the outdoors inside, and execute this all the better if they can do so with humor and finesse.

Q. QUARTERLY STATIONERY.

Just as one changes shoes or handbags with the seasons, stationery can be refreshed too.

R. RAW.

The primitive and unadorned can bring the idyllic outdoors inside. The Københavner Pot [Copenhagen Pot] is inspired by pottery made in 1860, but feels timeless and completely of this moment regardless.

S. SEX POSITIVITY.

This is the idea that people need space to embody, explore and learn about their sexuality and gender without judgment or shame. Fortunately, there’s a slew of stationery to guide these personal journeys.

T. THE BRITISH INVASION.

This fresh collaboration between a Seattle house of stationery and Louise Mulgrew, the 2023 Louie Award-winning Artist of the Year who hails from the U.K., marks a milestone sure to inspire similar introductions in its wake.

U. THE UNIVERSE.

All things celestial represent an important trend to watch.

V. VISION BOARDS.

The idea behind this practice is to live your best life by physically manifesting it in front of you.

W. WITCH.

In a similar vein as “dangerous,”the witch trend is a female power vibe, and when executed well, allows for endless metaphorical fun.

X. X-AMINE THE DETAILS.

Little elements, like a design that extends to a back or a special envelope, elevate a card from the mainstream square into the boutique space.

Y. YOUR LIFE, IN REALITY.

Emily McDowell started Empathy Cards to speak to the lives we really live. In the ensuing decade, this idea has gone in many directions, with amazing results.

Z. ZEAL FOR THE NON-TOXIC.

During times of social upheaval, people weed out what doesn’t work anymore. Thankfully, stationery can be the breadcrumbs guiding our path.

Featured photo: F is for Farm Fresh, like that from Paper Farm Press, which is also a working farm in Kingsburg, California, known as “the fruit basket of the world.”