No matter how much schooling you’ve endured, no matter how long you’ve worked in the industry, there is always more to learn. The moment you understand the current design moment, it shifts. As designers, it’s imperative upon us to understand where design has been and where it currently is, if we are to create it's exciting future.
Magazines
Smashing Magazine
A design blog/e-magazine with a strong web focus, Smashing is a phenomenal resource for new web designers and old pros who need to keep up on their knowledge (that’s everyone).
Co. Design
Fast Company – arguably today’s most forward thinking business magazine – runs Co. Design as an online magazine and invaluable resource for business-minded designers of all types.
GDUSA
Known for their design awards, GDUSA highlights the best of design in their iconic magazine. Design professionals can get a free subscription, so be sure to take advantage!
Books
Thinking with Type
Ellen Lupton’s iconic Thinking With Type is a phenomenal introduction to typography, as well as an amazing desk reference for more seasoned designers.
Logo Design Love
Designer David Airey’s new-ish classic, based on his blog of the same name, is an unmissable exploration of the logo and it’s many forms.
THe Designer’s Graphic Stew
Presented as almost a designer’s pantry, this is an incredible intro to the tools of the trade, with many inspiring design examples peppered throughout.
I used to be a design student
Both fun and stimulating, this book shows the work of top designers side-by-side with their work from school. A beautiful reminder of how far everyone comes, and how far we all still have to go.
Creative workshop
Essential to any new designer looking to build a portfolio – or old designers looking to stretch their muscle – this book comes with 80 kickass design challenges that push the limits of even the most experienced designers.
Capture your Style
Written by Insta-expert Aimee Song, this book gives an incredible overview of Instagram best practices, and a solid introduction to feed design. A must for any designer with an interest in social media.