The Picture Frame Trends to Watch for In 2025

Photo By: Steph Wilson

Framing is as much about preservation and protection as it is about storytelling. The right frame can transform your piece from just a “very nice” display to something that truly takes one's breath away with adding depth, mood, and a polished feel.

While we've only just begun to immerse ourselves in 2025, picture framing this year feels like clean, minimalist lines infused with a bold impact and no limits when it comes to showcasing works of creativity. If you are an artist, interior designer, or just someone who wants to bring a little more personality to their walls, these top trends will inspire your next display project.  

1. Floating Frames: The Modern Minimalist    

Rogers McCagg commissioned Harley Bartlett to paint twelve works for Innis Arden Golf Club in Old Greenwich, CT.

One trend that isn’t going anywhere? Floating frames. These clean, gallery-style frames create just the right amount of space between the artwork and the edge of the frame, giving your piece a “floating” effect that feels fresh and contemporary.

They’re especially popular for canvas artwork and abstract pieces, but honestly, floating frames look amazing on just about anything; photos, typography prints, or even pressed botanicals. They’re versatile, elegant and more importantly; so on trend.

2. A Gallery Wall With Meaning 

Gallery walls are still a popular favorite; and in 2025, they’re becoming more thoughtfully composed and personal than ever. It’s not about cramming as much onto the wall as possible. It’s about choosing pieces that tell your story and arranging them with intent. 

Mix and match frame styles, sizes, and shapes; think floating frames paired with round frames, or thin metal picture frames next to warm wood tones. This contrast adds visual interest and keeps the eye moving across your wall.

Try a tonal approach by using frames in varying shades of the same color palette; like soft neutrals, natural woods, or black-on-black in matte and gloss. It adds depth while keeping the look consistent and eye-catching. 

Whatever look you decide to go for; be sure to play with layout and negative space. Balance comes not only from what you place on a wall, but also from what you leave untouched. Empty space adds clarity and lets each piece make its own statement. 

3. Bold Frames: Make It Pop

Artist: Judy Vilmain | Frame by: Bella Moulding  

Of course, minimalism will always have its place; but bold is definitely back. Think colors and patterns as well as unexpected textures. A bright pink, deep purple or a navy blue frame can pop against neutral art or even walls in the same realm, complementing and contrasting simultaneously to draw the eye in an instant.

And the materials used play an important role these days, too. Wood, colored acrylic, metal, even bamboo; these add texture and personality and often tell a tale all their own. It's not just how a frame looks, but what it represents.

From a gold-leaf frame for a moody oil painting to a citrus-colored border  for a modern print, statement frames bring vibrancy and energy into any space. They make the room feel bolder, braver, and uniquely yours.

4. Shadow Boxes: Not Just for Memories 

Job by: Sara Larson | Framed piece: Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here vinyl

Shadow boxes are having a creative revival. Traditionally shadow boxes were most commonly used for items such as medals or keepsakes, but now they’re being used in more imaginative ways; think wedding dresses, matchbooks, guitars, or century-old maps.

In 2025, they’re becoming more innovative. You’ll start seeing designs with rich textures, velvet fabric-lined backings, carefully layered objects, and even built-in lighting. These aren’t just frames anymore; they are frames that add a bit more of a wow factor to your walls.

Explore our guide to shadow boxes and how to use them creatively.

5. The Art of Mixing & Matching

Perfectly matched frame sets? That’s yesterday’s look. This year, it's all about intentional contrasts, mixing ornate antique frames with ultra-sleek modern ones, pairing raw timber with brushed metal, or combining thick and thin profiles.

The secret to making it work? Keep a common thread; whether it's a colour palette, spacing, or subject matter – to tie the whole wall together. It’s eclectic, elevated, and completely custom.

Your Partner in Custom Framing

At Crestar, we believe every piece deserves a frame that tells its story. Whether you're working with original artwork, a vintage photo, or something totally unexpected, we’re here to help you frame it right.

From expert advice to fully custom builds, we’re your go-to for frames that feel as special as what they hold. Looking for something bold? Minimalist? Textured? Sustainable? We've got you covered.

Drop into your local Frame Shop today, and let’s bring your walls to a whole new level. 

Framing Tips from the Experts:

• Start with the art: Let the tone and style of the piece guide your frame choice.

• Think in layers: Mats, spacers, and float mounts can all add visual interest.

• Colour with care: Choose a frame that enhances your artwork’s palette; not one that competes with it.

• Experiment freely: Play with combinations until you find one that feels right to you.

Call (401) 885-0300 for any further questions or to book an appointment.