Skeuomorphism in UX: Definitions, examples, and its relevance today

Skeuomorphism is a design concept in graphic user interfaces (UI) that imitates real-world objects to make virtual elements more intuitive, as seen in early designs by companies like Apple. This approach was popular from 2007 to 2013, particularly in Apple's iOS, before being largely replaced by flat design due to its minimalist and scalable nature. Despite its decline, skeuomorphism has influenced modern design trends like neumorphism, which merges elements of skeuomorphism and flat design, maintaining a minimalist style while providing a sense of three dimensions. While skeuomorphism is less prevalent today, it still finds application in specific contexts like branding and certain UI elements, offering a familiar interface to users. To effectively incorporate skeuomorphism in design, it's crucial to balance realism with functionality, ensuring that users can intuitively navigate digital environments without experiencing clutter or confusion.