History of logo design + test

In order to stay ahead of the game, companies need to constantly adapt to changing market conditions and competitors' actions. Even brand logos need constant and high-quality updates.

Logo design has gone through several key periods: at the end of the 19th century, it was exquisitely ornate; a few decades later, it was geometrically simplified; the rebellious 60s made it bright and informal; and now logos are minimalistic. Design has adapted to the specific requirements of each era, and this can be seen in the logos of familiar companies.

The end of the nineteenth century is characterised by logos with sharp neo-Gothic shapes and an abundance of details, especially floral ones.

Example: each letter of the 1898 Pepsi logo is a decorated work of art. The complete opposite of modern laconic design.

Under the influence of industrialisation, new art movements emerged - Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Expressionism. Designers began to use both laconic and non-standard silhouettes and finishes, which was a significant step towards modern design. Logos are becoming more technological and geometric.

Example: The first Volkswagen logo (1937): Industrial motifs, clear shapes, simple colours. In many ways, this era resonates with the present day, but modern logos no longer tolerate such detail.

The rebellious 60s led to a fashion for bright logos with complex ornaments that contradicted the previously accepted norms.

Example: Designed in 1981, the logo of the world's main music channel has become a symbol of several generations of young people. Thirty years later, only the colours have been changed (interestingly, to more conservative ones), but the shape has remained the same.

"Digital has changed the rules of the game in many areas, including design. Laconic, flat, monochrome logos have long been a winner: there is nothing superfluous in them, and therefore they look good on both print and electronic media.

Example: In 2014, Apple, a major trendsetter in electronic design, brought back its monochrome logo.

And now we offer you a test where you can determine the relevance of your taste in logo design.