The days of relying on a standard two-page CV written in Arial font are long gone—especially for those pursuing creative or marketing related roles. Standing out has become essential for candidates wanting to secure the best opportunities. Today, a CV isn’t just a summary of your experience; it’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, creativity, and skills.
In this post, we’ve curated 21 inspiring examples of creative CVs to motivate you to think beyond the boundaries of a plain Word document. Whether you’re aiming for a job in design, marketing, or any creative field, these unique examples demonstrate just how impactful your CV can be.
Why Creative CVs Matter
Recruiters spend an average of just 6 seconds reviewing a CV, so making a strong first impression is critical. A creative CV doesn’t just grab attention—it sets the tone, highlights your creativity, and can tell a compelling story about who you are as a professional.
FACT: Hiring managers remember visuals and layouts up to 65% better than text alone, so integrating design elements into your CV can help make it more memorable.
However, it’s essential to tailor your approach to the industry. A creative CV for a graphic designer might look completely different from one aimed at corporate roles.
Our Top Picks: 21 Creative CV Examples That Wow
Here are 21 CVs that showcase how bold, imaginative design can leave a lasting impression:
1. // CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE WITH BRIGHT BORDER
Download the above Creative CV Template here.
2. // INFOGRAPHIC CV DESIGN WITH BRIGHT CHARTS
3. // CREATIVE CV DESIGN WITH POPS OF COLOUR
4. // CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE WITH EDITABLE TEXT
Download the above Creative CV Template here.
5. // SIMPLE CREATIVE CV IN RED
6. // THE CV OF LIFE - COMPLEX INFOGRAPHIC CV
7. // CLEAN BUT CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE (TO DOWNLOAD)
Download the above Clean Creative CV Template here.
8. // HELLO CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE
9. // THE WINE CV
10. // THE ARTISTIC PHOTOGRAPHER CREATIVE CV
11. // CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE WITH BRIGHT BORDER (VERSION 2.)
Download the above Bold CV Template here.
12. // CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE FOR PACKAGING DESIGNERS
13. // PRACTICAL CREATIVE RESUME DESIGN (MAINSTREAM)
Download the above Creative Resume Design here.
14. // CREATIVE CV INSPIRATION FOR ILLUSTRATORS
15. // CREATIVE CV DESIGN FOR BOLD INTERNATIONAL FOLK
16. // CREATIVE CV TEMPLATE FOR ANALYTICAL TYPES
17. // INFOGRAPHIC CV FOR ILLUSTRATORS AND ARTISTS
18. // CREATIVE CV EXAMPLE FOR WEB DESIGNERS AND DIGITAL FOLK
19. // STYLISH CREATIVE CV DESIGN FOR THE STARSAILORS
20. // ANOTHER TAKE ON THE CREATIVE INFOGRAPHIC CV
21. // SIMPLY STYLISH - CREATIVE CV WITH THE PROFESSIONAL TOUCH
How to Craft a Creative CV That Works for You:
A creative CV is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s how to make sure yours is both memorable and effective:
Know Your Audience: If you’re applying for roles in advertising, design, or tech, go bold! But for corporate industries, a minimalist, polished design works best.
Keep It Relevant: Creativity should enhance clarity—not detract from it. Highlight your key skills and achievements with flair, but ensure all vital information is easy to find.
Tools to Get You Started: Use templates or tools like Word and Photoshop to design your own CV. Customise pre-designed templates from platforms like Etsy or our very own CV designs for a quick, simple yet impactful approach.
Conclusion
Your CV is often the first touchpoint with a potential employer. It’s an opportunity to showcase what makes you unique and memorable. From interactive formats to clever infographic designs, there are endless ways to elevate your application and increase your chances of standing out.
With so many creative CV templates now available online, crafting a standout design is easier than ever. Start with these ideas, add your personal flair, and tailor it to your dream role.
Are you inspired to revamp your CV? Let us know your favourite creative designs, or share your own for a chance to be featured!