Wordmark logos
Wordmark logos are typographic-based designs that use stylized lettering or custom typography to represent a brand or company. They rely on the unique arrangement, font choice, and visual treatment of the company name to create a distinctive visual identity. Examples of wordmark logos include Coca-Cola, Google, and Disney.
Letterform logos
Letterform logos focus on individual letters or a combination of letters to create a visually appealing and memorable design. They often emphasize the artistic manipulation of the letter shapes, incorporating unique angles, curves, or decorative elements. Letterform logos can be minimalist or highly stylized, showcasing the creative interpretation of the chosen letters. Examples include IBM, HP, and Chanel.
Symbolic or Abstract Logos
Symbolic and abstract logos employ visual symbols or abstract shapes to represent a brand or company. They aim to convey the essence of the brand through a simplified, non-literal representation. These logos often require interpretation, allowing viewers to associate their own meanings with the symbols. Examples of symbolic and abstract logos include Nike’s swoosh, Apple’s bitten apple, and the Olympics rings.
Emblems logos
Emblem logos feature a combination of typography and symbols enclosed within a unified shape, such as a badge, shield, or crest. These logos often convey a sense of tradition, authority, or heritage. Emblem logos are commonly used by organizations, schools, and government agencies to evoke a sense of prestige. Examples include Harley-Davidson, Starbucks, and BMW.
Pictorial Logos
Pictorial logos, also known as logo symbols or brand marks, use visually recognizable and representative imagery to represent a brand or company. They can be literal representations of products, services, or concepts related to the brand or more abstract illustrations. Pictorial logos are often memorable and easily identifiable, allowing the brand to be recognized even without the accompanying text. Famous examples include the Twitter bird, Apple’s bitten apple, and the Nike swoosh.