When Logos Look Alike

Look-alike logos are nothing new. In fact, I wrote about this a couple years ago [Logo Clones]. It was old news then. Still, the message is worth repeating.

Bacardi, the largest family-owned spirits company in the world, and the Swiss Air Force.

Many people feel conflicted when it comes to this topic, and rightfully so. On the one hand, you want to be different. You can’t be different by looking like everybody else. On the other hand, you’re aware that we’re all using the same ingredients to make a dish.

Univision, the Spanish-language TV network, and Microsoft.

Personally, my heart is filled with joy knowing that these examples exist. You’d think that as a Logo Designer, I’d be discouraged and put off by the idea that nothing I make will be original. When my job is to help you stand out, how can I ever succeed if all the good ideas are already taken?!

In reality, I’m put at ease knowing that household names and companies who play on a world stage are guilty of committing this “sin.” If it’s good enough for Chanel, it’s good enough for Gucci. It’s good enough for me [insert smiley face emoji right here].

Two iconic fashion powerhouses, Chanel and Gucci

When we’re all using the same colors in existence and the same shapes in nature, you really have to step your game up if you’re going to be noticed. Especially this late in the game. I always felt that if I lived 100 years ago, people would be quoting me today [insert another smiley emoji here]. Everything cool has already been done. Or has it?

I see this as an awesome challenge. I am tasked with creating identities that are unique and tailored to specific brands. I rise to the occasion. I know that I’m capable of adding my own twist to what’s already been done. THAT’S the fun part!

Twinkle, twinkle little star

As humans, when we see a new thing, our eyes automatically look for something familiar. It’s natural. “This kinda reminds me of…” fill in the blank. You’re going to be reminded of something. The longer you live, the bigger the database you have to pull from. While designers are trying their best to reinvent the wheel, understand that sometimes you can’t improve on perfection.

We have to remember that the logo is just one piece of the puzzle. Take into account your industry, your product, business or service, your name and your brand. All of these factors come into play in helping you carve out a space for yourself. You can’t rely on the logo to do all the work. It’s merely one ingredient in the recipe.