Categories
Blog about Logo and Naming

Logo Trends That You Should Avoid in 2021

When it comes to creating a memorable logo, it’s important to stay away from fads and trends that can quickly become outdated. While some logo styles may seem trendy and fresh now, they may not stand the test of time. To steer clear of these logo pitfalls, it’s important to avoid certain logo trends that can detract from a timeless design.

1. Overly complex logos: Logos that are too intricate can be overwhelming and confusing for viewers. Instead, opt for clean and simple designs that are easy to recognize and understand. A cluttered logo can make it difficult for customers to remember and identify your brand.

2. Gradient and shadow effects: While gradients and shadow effects may create depth and dimension in a logo, they can also make it appear dated. Steer clear of these effects and opt for a flat, minimalist design for a logo that will stand the test of time.

3. Trendy typography: Typography trends come and go, so it’s best to avoid using overly trendy fonts in your logo design. Opt for classic, clean fonts that will remain timeless and legible, even as design trends change.

4. Overused symbols: Certain symbols, such as arrows or globes, may be popular in logo design at the moment. However, using these symbols can make your logo blend in with the crowd. To create a more unique and memorable logo, try to steer clear of overused symbols and opt for something more original.

5. Bright, bold colors: While bright and bold colors can make a logo stand out, they can also quickly become outdated. Instead, choose a color palette that is more subdued and timeless. Neutral colors and muted tones are a safer choice for a logo that will remain relevant for years to come.

By avoiding these logo trends and staying clear of fads, you can create a timeless design that will stand out and remain relevant for years to come.

Avoid These Logo Trends

In the world of design, it’s important to stay away from logo fads and trends if you want a more timeless look. Logo design is a crucial aspect of branding, and it should be clear, memorable, and reflective of your brand’s identity. Here are some logo trends to avoid:

1. Overly complex logos

While intricate designs might seem impressive, they can quickly become outdated and hard to reproduce across different mediums. Simple and clean logos are more effective in conveying your brand’s message and are easier to remember.

2. Using trendy fonts

Trendy fonts might be popular at the moment, but they can quickly become dated. It’s best to stick to classic and timeless fonts that won’t go out of style. This ensures that your logo remains relevant for years to come.

These are just a few logo trends to steer clear of. Remember, the goal is to create a logo that stands the test of time and represents your brand effectively. Avoiding these fads and focusing on clear, timeless design styles will help you achieve that.

Overused Typography

When it comes to logo design, typography plays a crucial role in conveying the right message to your audience. However, it’s important to steer clear from certain typography fads and overused styles to avoid creating a logo that will quickly become outdated.

Stay Away from These Typography Styles

  • Avoid using trendy fonts that are popular at the moment, as they can quickly go out of style. Instead, opt for timeless and classic fonts that will stand the test of time.
  • Avoid using overly decorative or ornate fonts, as they can make your logo look cluttered and hard to read. Keep your typography clean and clear for a more professional look.
  • Stay away from using script fonts for every type of business. While script fonts can be elegant and sophisticated, they may not be suitable for all industries. Consider the nature of your business and choose a font that aligns with its style and values.
  • Avoid using too many different fonts in your logo. Stick to a maximum of two fonts to maintain a cohesive and harmonious design.

By avoiding these overused typography styles, you can ensure that your logo stays relevant and timeless. Remember, the goal of a logo is to create a lasting impression, so it’s important to choose typography that will stand the test of time.

Gradients Galore

One of the design fads to steer away from in logo design is the excessive use of gradients. While gradients can add depth and dimension to a design, going overboard with them can make a logo look outdated and overly complex. Avoid using gradients in your logo design unless there is a clear reason to do so.

Gradients were a popular trend from the early 2000s, but they have since fallen out of favor in favor of simpler, flat design styles. Using too many gradients can make a logo appear busy and distract from the overall message or brand identity.

It’s important to stay away from using gradients for the sake of using them. Instead, consider using other design techniques such as simple shapes, clean lines, and minimalistic color palettes to create a timeless logo design. By keeping the design clear and avoiding excessive use of gradients, you can create a logo that will stand the test of time and remain relevant for years to come.

When it comes to logo design, it’s best to stay away from trendy fads and focus on creating a design that is unique and representative of your brand. By avoiding these logo trends, such as gradients, you can ensure that your logo will have a timeless appeal and won’t become outdated quickly.

Excessive Drop Shadows

Avoid steering away from these clear and timeless logo design trends and fads. Excessive drop shadows are one of those styles that should be avoided if you want your logo to stay relevant and professional.

Drop shadows can add depth and dimension to a logo, but when used excessively or inappropriately, they can make the design look cluttered and outdated. In recent years, there has been a shift towards simpler and cleaner logo designs, as they tend to be more versatile and better suited for various applications.

Why should you avoid excessive drop shadows?

One of the main reasons to avoid excessive drop shadows is that they can interfere with the readability and legibility of the logo. If the drop shadow is too heavy or takes up too much space, it can make the text or elements of the logo difficult to read, especially at smaller sizes or when reproduced in black and white.

Another reason to steer clear of excessive drop shadows is that they can quickly become dated. Trends in design come and go, and what may have been popular and trendy at one point can quickly become outdated. By avoiding excessive drop shadows, you can create a logo that is more likely to stand the test of time and remain relevant for years to come.

Busy and Cluttered Designs

One style of logo design to steer clear of is busy and cluttered designs. While it may be tempting to include as many elements as possible, this can actually detract from the overall impact of your logo.

Avoid styles that involve too many intricate details and busy patterns. Logos should stay simple and focused to effectively convey your message. Overly complex designs can make it difficult for people to quickly understand and remember your brand.

Instead, opt for clean and minimalist designs that are timeless. These types of logos are more likely to stand the test of time and remain relevant even as design trends come and go. Simple and clear logos are also more versatile, making it easier to use them across various platforms and mediums.

Remember, fads and trends come and go, but a well-designed logo should be able to withstand the test of time. By avoiding busy and cluttered designs, you can create a logo that is both visually appealing and memorable.

Fussy Illustrations

One of the trends to avoid when it comes to logo design is using fussy illustrations. Fussy illustrations refer to overly intricate and detailed drawings or graphics that can clutter a logo and make it difficult to read or understand.

While some illustrative elements can add visual interest and uniqueness to a logo, it’s important to steer clear of styles that can quickly become outdated. Logos should be clear and easy to comprehend at a glance, and fussy illustrations can often detract from this goal.

These overly complex and intricate elements can also make a logo less versatile, as they may not scale well or reproduce clearly in different sizes or formats. This can limit the logo’s use across various applications, such as websites, social media, and print materials.

Instead of incorporating fussy illustrations, it’s best to opt for simpler, more streamlined design elements that will stand the test of time. Avoiding these fads and trends can help ensure that your logo remains relevant and effective for years to come.

Cliche Icons

When it comes to logo design, it’s important to steer away from fads and avoid these cliché icons. While certain styles may be popular at the moment, they can quickly become dated and make your logo appear unprofessional and out of touch.

To create a more timeless design, it’s best to stay away from trends that are overdone and lack originality. Avoid using icons that have become overly common, such as the lightbulb for innovation or the globe for global reach.

Instead, aim for a logo that stands out from the crowd and conveys your brand’s unique identity. Choose icons and symbols that are relevant to your industry and represent your company’s values and mission.

Remember, the goal of a logo is to be memorable and make a lasting impression on your audience. By avoiding cliché icons and trendy designs, you can create a logo that will withstand the test of time and truly reflect your brand.

So, when it comes to designing your logo, be sure to avoid these cliché icons and steer away from fads. Stay true to your brand and focus on creating a design that is timeless and will stand out for years to come.

Superfluous Effects

When it comes to logo design, it’s important to steer clear of unnecessary and superfluous effects that can quickly date a design. Styles that may be popular today can quickly become outdated, making it crucial to stay away from these fads to ensure a timeless logo design.

1. Overly elaborate gradients

While gradients can add depth and dimension to a logo, it’s important to avoid overly elaborate gradients that can distract from the overall design. A logo should be clear and easily recognizable, so staying away from excessive gradients can help achieve this.

2. Drop shadows

Drop shadows were once popular in logo design, but they can now make a logo look dated and amateurish. Instead of relying on drop shadows, it’s better to focus on clean lines and simplicity in order to create a logo that will stand the test of time.

Logos to Avoid Reasons to Stay Away
1. Glowing text Glowing text effects were popular in the early 2000s, but they can now make a logo look outdated and tacky.
2. Beveled edges Beveled edges were once a popular design choice, but they can now make a logo look overly complicated and cluttered.
3. Embossed text Embossed text may have been trendy in the past, but it can now make a logo look outdated and difficult to read.
4. Lens flares Lens flares were popular in the 90s, but they can now make a logo look cheesy and unprofessional.

By avoiding these superfluous effects, you can create a logo design that will remain timeless and relevant for years to come.

Too Many Colors

When it comes to logo design trends, one style that you should definitely avoid is using too many colors in your logo. While it may seem like a good idea to incorporate a wide range of colors to make your logo stand out, it can actually end up making your logo look cluttered and confusing.

Clear and simple logos tend to be more timeless and memorable. They are easier to recognize and are more versatile, making them suitable for different applications and platforms. Using too many colors can make your logo look busy and can distract from the message you’re trying to convey.

Stay Away from These Colorful Styles

There are certain logo fads that have come and gone, such as the rainbow gradient or the neon color trend. While these styles may seem trendy at the moment, they can quickly become outdated and irrelevant. It’s important to think long-term and choose a color palette that will stand the test of time.

Avoid Overcomplicating Your Design

Choosing a simple color scheme for your logo doesn’t mean that it has to be boring or dull. You can still create a visually appealing logo using a limited number of colors. In fact, many iconic logos, like Coca-Cola or Nike, use just one or two colors to great effect.

So, when designing your logo, remember to steer clear of using too many colors. Instead, opt for a clean and simple design that will remain relevant for years to come.

Blurry and Pixelated Logos

When it comes to logo design, clarity is key. Blurry and pixelated logos are definitely trends to steer clear of if you want a timeless and professional design. These styles may seem trendy at the moment, but they quickly become outdated and can give off an unprofessional impression.

Logos that are blurry or pixelated often result from using low-quality images or improper file formats. They can make your logo look cheap and amateurish, which is not the impression you want to give to potential customers or clients.

To avoid blurry and pixelated logos, stay away from these common mistakes:

Using Low-Quality Images

When creating a logo, it’s important to use high-resolution images. Low-quality images may look fine on a computer screen, but they can become pixelated when printed or resized. Always use high-quality and scalable vector graphics to ensure that your logo maintains its clarity and sharpness in any size or format.

Choosing the Wrong File Format

The file format you choose for your logo can also impact its clarity. Raster or bitmap formats, like JPEG or PNG, are not ideal for logos as they can create pixelation. Instead, opt for vector formats like SVG or AI, which maintain their quality and sharpness regardless of size or resolution.

By avoiding blurry and pixelated logos, you can create a design that stands the test of time and portrays professionalism. It’s important to invest in a high-quality design and file format to ensure that your logo accurately represents your brand and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Inconsistent Branding

When it comes to designing a logo, consistency is key. It’s important for your logo to stay clear and consistent across all platforms and mediums. Inconsistent branding can confuse your audience and dilute the impact of your design.

Avoid these logo trends that steer away from clear and consistent branding:

1. Overly Complex Logos

While intricate and detailed logos may seem like a good idea at first, they can quickly become outdated and hard to reproduce across different mediums. It’s best to keep your logo design simple and easily recognizable.

2. Following Fads

Logo design trends come and go, and it can be tempting to jump on the latest bandwagon. However, following fads can result in a logo that quickly becomes dated. Instead, focus on creating a timeless design that will stand the test of time.

By avoiding these logo trends, you can create a design that is consistent, clear, and timeless. Remember to stay true to your brand and its values, and don’t be swayed by passing design fads.

Poor Scalability

When it comes to logo design, it’s important to consider scalability. Some design trends may look great on a large scale or in certain contexts, but can lose their impact when resized or used in smaller formats.

One of the logo design fads to avoid is overly intricate or detailed logos. While these logos may look impressive in larger sizes, they can become muddled and lose their clarity when scaled down. It’s important to remember that a logo needs to be easily recognizable and legible, even when it’s small.

Another trend to steer clear of is using trendy fonts that may not stand the test of time. Overly stylized or decorative fonts may be popular now, but they can quickly become dated and lose their appeal. It’s best to opt for clean and classic typefaces that will remain timeless.

Additionally, logos that rely heavily on gradients, shadows, or complex effects can be problematic when it comes to scalability. These effects may look striking on a larger scale, but can become blurry or distorted when reduced in size. It’s best to keep logos simple and avoid relying too heavily on these effects.

In conclusion, when designing a logo, it’s important to stay away from these logo trends that can result in poor scalability. Steer clear of overly intricate or detailed logos, trendy fonts that may not stand the test of time, and logos that rely too heavily on gradients or complex effects. By avoiding these logo fads and sticking to clean, simple designs, you can create a logo that will remain timeless and effective at any size.

Unreadable Text

When it comes to logo design, one of the most important factors to consider is readability. A logo should be instantly recognizable and clearly communicate the brand’s message. Unfortunately, there are some design trends that can compromise the legibility of the text in a logo.

One of the trends to avoid is using overly decorative or embellished fonts. While these styles may look fancy and attractive, they can make the text difficult to read, especially when scaled down or viewed from a distance. Remember, the primary purpose of a logo is to effectively represent the brand, and if the text is hard to read, it defeats that purpose.

Another trend to steer away from is using texture or patterns within the text. While it can add visual interest to a logo, it can also obscure the letters and make them harder to decipher. A clear and simple text is more likely to leave a lasting impression and be easily recognizable.

Additionally, logos that incorporate three-dimensional or distorted text should be avoided. These styles may seem contemporary or edgy, but they often sacrifice legibility. It’s important to remember that a logo should remain timeless and easily legible across various media, so it’s best to stay away from these trends.

When designing a logo, it’s crucial to prioritize readability above all else. Clear and concise text will ensure that your logo effectively conveys the brand’s message and leaves a lasting impact on viewers. By avoiding these trends and sticking to clear and legible fonts, your logo will stand the test of time.

Lack of Originality

When it comes to logo design, it’s important to stay away from fads and trends that may fade away quickly. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to follow the crowd and create a logo that looks like everyone else’s.

Originality is key in logo design. Your logo should be unique and stand out from the competition. It should be a true reflection of your brand’s identity and values. Steer clear from using clichéd symbols or overused design elements that have become tired and predictable.

Avoid these logo styles

To avoid lack of originality in your logo design, steer clear from these popular logo styles:

  • Gradient designs: Gradients were once a popular trend in logo design, but they have become overused and dated. A solid color palette is a safer and more timeless choice for your logo.
  • Script fonts: While script fonts can be elegant and stylish, they have become too common in logo design. Opt for a unique and custom typography that matches your brand’s personality.

In conclusion, to create a timeless logo design, it’s important to avoid following the latest logo trends and styles. Instead, focus on creating an original and unique logo that represents your brand in the best possible way. By steering clear from these logo fads, you can ensure that your logo will stand the test of time.

Chaotic Layouts

When it comes to logo design, it’s important to stay clear of these trends, especially chaotic layouts. Chaotic layouts are characterized by cluttered and disorganized arrangements of elements. These logos can be overwhelming and confusing for viewers, making it difficult for them to understand the message or identity of the brand.

While some may argue that chaotic layouts can grab attention and create a sense of energy, it’s important to steer clear of this trend. Chaotic logos often come across as unprofessional and unorganized, giving off a negative impression to potential customers.

To create a successful logo design, it’s best to avoid chaotic layouts and instead focus on clean and clear designs. Simple and well-structured logos are timeless and can easily adapt to different mediums and sizes. They convey a sense of professionalism and make it easier for the audience to connect with the brand.

By staying away from chaotic layouts, you can avoid the fads and trends that may quickly become outdated. Instead, invest in design styles that will stand the test of time and continue to represent your brand effectively for years to come.

Outdated Design Styles

When it comes to logo design, there are certain styles and trends that you should avoid to create a more timeless and enduring look. By steering clear of these design fads, you can ensure that your logo stays relevant and impactful for years to come.

Avoid Overly Complex Logos

One design trend to stay away from is overly complex logos. While intricate and detailed designs may seem appealing at first, they can quickly become outdated and hard to reproduce. Simple and clean logos tend to have a more timeless quality and can be easily scaled and adapted across various mediums and sizes.

Stay Clear of Trends

Another design style to avoid is jumping on trendy bandwagons. While it may be tempting to incorporate the latest design trends into your logo, these trends can quickly fade away, leaving your logo looking outdated. Instead, focus on creating a unique and timeless design that stands the test of time.

  • Avoid using trendy colors or gradients that may go out of style.
  • Avoid incorporating trendy design elements that may become overly popular and lose their impact.
  • Avoid following popular logo styles that may become clichéd and saturate the market.

By steering clear of these design styles and trends, you can create a logo that remains relevant and impactful for years to come. Remember, the goal is to create a timeless design that represents your brand effectively, so focus on simplicity, uniqueness, and enduring appeal.