In a world where design choices shape our perceptions, the concept of neutrality is more complex than it seems. That’s why I asked myself what it means for a design to be “genderless”? Is true neutrality even possible, or does every design decision carry an implicit bias?
Neutrality Is Not Universal
When we think of “neutral” design, what comes to mind? Minimalist aesthetics? Muted colors? Sans-serif fonts? While these elements are often marketed as universal, they carry their own cultural and historical baggage. For example, black, white, and gray are frequently used in gender-neutral branding. Yet, these choices are shaped by Western modernist design principles, which emerged from a specific cultural context. In other cultures, vibrant colors might symbolize balance and neutrality instead.
Similarly, clean, geometric typography is often seen as neutral, but this perception is influenced by the association of serif fonts with tradition and femininity, and sans-serifs with modernity and masculinity. Even something as simple as a rounded button versus a sharp-edged one can subtly communicate warmth (feminine-coded) versus efficiency (masculine-coded). Neutrality is not an absence of meaning; it is shaped by cultural norms and visual history.
How the Brain Interprets Gender in Design
Our brains are wired to categorize information quickly. Research in cognitive psychology shows that humans rely on schemas—mental shortcuts based on past experiences—to make sense of the world. Gender is one of the most deeply ingrained schemas we use. When we encounter a design, our brains subconsciously assess elements like color, shape, typography, and imagery to determine whether it aligns with our learned gender associations. Here are some examples I already explored:
- Soft curves and pastel colors tend to be processed as “feminine.”
- Sharp angles and bold, dark tones are often perceived as “masculine.”
- Even language choices—like whether a product description uses “strong & powerful” versus “smooth & gentle”—reinforce gendered perceptions.
Because we instinctively categorize designs, truly gender-neutral design must actively challenge these subconscious cues.
Beyond the Binary: What it may look like
If neutrality is subjective, how can designers create products, brands, and experiences that don’t alienate or reinforce stereotypes? Here are key strategies:
- Diversify Color Palettes
Instead of defaulting to grayscale, consider diverse, unexpected colors that transcend traditional gender associations. Bright yellow, rich teal, or deep coral can be gender-inclusive choices. - Rethink Typography & Form
Avoid extremes—neither ultra-decorative scripts nor hyper-industrial fonts signal neutrality. Instead, seek balanced, adaptable typefaces. Similarly, combining organic and geometric shapes can create a more inclusive visual language. - Use Inclusive Language
Words shape perception. “For everyone” is more inclusive than “for men and women.” The same applies to product descriptions, job listings, and marketing materials. - Offer Customization & Flexibility
Instead of dictating a singular “neutral” aesthetic, allow users to personalize their experience—whether through adjustable interfaces, modular packaging, or color selection. - Challenge Default Settings
Many digital interfaces assume a binary user experience (e.g., gendered avatars or form fields). Providing non-binary options or omitting unnecessary gender markers altogether fosters inclusivity.
The Future of Neutrality in Design
Neutrality is a moving target—what feels inclusive today may evolve as cultural norms shift. Instead of aiming for a single, fixed idea of neutrality, designers should embrace adaptability and question their own biases. True genderless design is about offering choice, breaking defaults, and allowing people to engage with products and spaces in ways that feel authentic to them. Because in the end, the most inclusive design is not the one that erases differences, but the one that makes room for everyone.
Sources:
https://uxdesign.cc/designing-for-gender-neutrality-373f73f0832a
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12008-021-00751-7?
https://www.womentech.net/en-us/how-to/gender-neutral-design-principles?
