Skeumorphism is including or retaining historical design elements for now non-functional purposes. The author asserts that Microsoft's Metro design moves away

Skeumorphism is including or retaining historical design elements for now non-functional purposes. The author asserts that Microsoft's Metro design moves away from it, but his screenshot of Metro shows several instances: - a paper shopping bag icon - MSFT stock symbol - icon of analog alarm clock with bells - gear icon for control panel - manilla folder icon for windows explorer And does anyone else cringe at the HTML slipping through on AT&T? The simple fact is that building on previous experience is useful. Anachronistic visual remnants of previous technology can lend familiarity to a new interface, reducing learning curve and increasing acceptance (e.g., rivets on denim jeans). Sometimes designers go even further and purposely introduce even more skeumorphic elements, going for a "retro" feel. Some people like it, some people don't. It isn't always done well, and it isn't always done badly.