We are in the midst of a design revolution, where technology no longer hinders a designers creativity. Our phones are more powerful that computers of the not too distant future and with high-speed mobile internet, beautiful design can be highlighted on each and every device. With this backdrop, we begin looking at logo design trends for 2017.

We have moved from an era where adding an extra color on a logo could increase the printing cost exponentially to an era where imagination is the only limitation. Businesses can tap into the world market for talented designers and the cost of a redesign has fallen to a level where brand innovation not only makes financial sense but if you aren’t innovating, you’re falling behind.

As we close in on 2017, it’s a perfect time to take inventory of your brand and ensure it is portraying the right message for your business. The first place to start is your logo, the visual representation of your business. The logo does play a vital part in your marketing, advertising, public relations, and overall effectiveness of your branding. Whether your logo needs a slight reboot to keep up with the times or a complete overhaul, here are the top logo design trends for 2017 to get you started.

Line Art Logo Design Trends

Mallard Publishing

Why do we love it? This is an outstanding example of the power of line art. Such a simple work, but unmistakable. The space in and around the mallard gives an opportunity for additional design elements. This logo will work on the web or look great on print pieces and can represent the company in an unmistakable fashion no matter where it’s shown.

What can you learn? Simplicity can be powerful. You don’t have to abstract out the meaning of your brand to utilize a trendy, yet timeless technique.

Whale, hello there Monday!

Why we love it? This is beautiful, yet simple. There is depth and intrigue, with the overlapping lines creating a new and unique shades of blue. This epitomizes what can be done with line art and would give a marketer and other designers plenty of options when building the brand.

What can you learn? Creativity can set your brand apart. Don’t be afraid to take chances with your design and don’t default to the traditional styles. Where many companies would go with the traditional whale tale (think “The Hartford”), this logo portrays the strength and grace of the blue whale while maintaining a creative and fresh perspective. Don’t forget that.

New York City

Why we love it? What’s not to love? The font is perfect. The apple is iconic. And the execution is flawless. I love how the N in New York starts the top of the apple and the Y in city forms the bottom it. A very nice touch.

What can you learn? The big apple design is iconic, but even these iconic designs can be creative and modern. You don’t have to change everything. Slight stylistics reboots of your logo can make it fresh and trendy.

38º

Why we love it? This logo hits all kinds of design trends for 2017. Line Art? Check! Vintage? Check! Negative Space? Check! And it’s beautiful to boot. This is a very bold, creative choice which has its pros and cons, but the execution is awesome.

What can you learn? This is a very specific type of logo and while beautiful, would totally need to shape all the branding. Sometimes, super creative art puts you in a box design and marketing-wise. For some companies, that helps them hone the message. For others, it can be a challenge that weighs them down. Just because it’s “awesome” doesn’t necessarily mean it should represent your brand.

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Vintage Logo Design Trends

Luis’ Corner Barbershop

Why we love it? Vintage never goes out of style. I love this fresh take on the vintage barbershop. The red, white, and blue color pallet is excellent. The icons are a great touch. And this vintage logo makes sense for a shop that opened in 1959. This is a perfect mix of new techniques and vintage feel that feels very authentic.

What can you learn? Vintage doesn’t have to be dull. And vintage only works if it feels authentic. Creating a vintage logo for a company started in 2016 may not be as powerful as one started in 1959.

East Coast Lifestyle

Why we love it? This is a beautiful mix of a slightly vintage style with a very crisp feel. Icons and visual elements add depth to the logo and give the brand an interesting story.

What can you learn? A logo isn’t always just one thing. Understanding the different uses of the logo and different styles that can represent your brand as the logo is important. Ensuring consistency between these logos, icons, and typeography will ensure your brand stays consistent.

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Negative Space Logo Design Trends

4x (fox) logo

Why we love it? I love everything about this logo. The fox carved out of the 4. The tail on the x. The background giving texture across the entire logo. I love it!

What can you learn? Creativity is only as good as the execution. I’ve seen this technique tried and it very often fails. If you’re going to try something creative, a.) hire a pro and b.) make sure you get good, unbias feedback.

Coffee

Why we love it? I love when a logo is so simple and so obvious. This is a beautiful design with only two design elements and a great choice of color.

What can you learn? Sometimes, the best designs are the most obvious. Don’t overdesign.

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Hand Drawn Logo Design Trends

Two Parts Logo

Why we love it? I love the mix of the hand drawn text with the more traditional font. I love the circular logo where the circle feeds into the text. And I love the use of background color and lines to really make a very simple the logos stand out.

What can you learn? The details often matter most. The secondary colors and design features should not be ignored. Too often, you get a “logo” from a designer, but you really need an entire package. If you purchase a logo design, you should request different uses like above.

Revising “Unify”

Why we love it? I love seeing the method behind the madness. I believe this shows clearly the thought and planning that should go into an amazing logo. Opening up Photoshop and typing your name and changing the font is not logo design!

What can you learn? Opening up Photoshop and typing your name and changing the font is not logo design! Leave the design to the professionals!

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Do you agree with these trends? Are you looking to redesign your logo in 2017? Let us know in the comments!