: Flat design vs skeuomorphism, which one is most preferable? As per my knowledge nowadays there's a trend going with flat design. That's cool. These are the things people associate with flat design

@Ann6370331

This is really a false choice. You can follow the minimalist principals of flat design and still use some shadows for depth and judiciously applied gradients to add interest.

Skeuomorphism was (I believe) a slowly developed reaction to the lack of color depth in early computers which commonly had few colors and limited ability to illustrate metaphors for tangible objects. As color depth increased, designers used it to push past the relatively flat appearance until we found ourselves at the height of the simulated leather and wood-grain era. Then all of the sudden we realized the monster we have created and recoiled in horror.

But the full-tilt reaction to absolutely nothing but flat color is perhaps a bit too far. There are several reasons (both usability and design) to add some depth and interest to a minimalist design. I agree, simulated textures and 3D objects are best suited for games, not apps but you have to make design decisions based on your market and users. Otherwise you are being trendy.

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@Shelley591

There is no 'best'. They are just two different tools that can be used when creating your UI. Note that they are not mutually exclusive. You can use one or both together.

Example is that iOS7 is considered a 'flat design' but it still uses plenty of skeuomorphs, such as the 'frosted glass' overlays. I wrote a more detailed explanation and example over on UX.

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