The Influence of Logo Shapes on Brand Perception

Written by Emaaz Bari
September 11, 2024

The question might have come to your mind: why are some logos more appealing than others? It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about the hidden meanings embedded within their shapes. Psychologically, shapes affect how we perceive certain things, and logo designers are fully aware of this and use it to come up with effective branding. Now, let’s go deep into the ocean of different shapes of logos and find their meanings.

Why Logo Design Isn’t Just About Aesthetics?

Logo is the foundation and one of the major factors that determine the success of your business. Despite the appearance, however, it does not mean that is everything. The logo should have a great look, and the recall value must be good. It should also be descriptive and flexible. It should communicate the right message about the brand, the right image, and the right tone to the right audiences.

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Why do logo shapes matter?

Choosing the right shape of the logo also plays a very significant role when it comes to shaping the perception that people have of your brand. There is now a high match between the shapes and the emotions and concepts associated with the different shapes.

For instance, circles are associated with unity and infinity, whereas triangles signify power as well as progress. Selecting the right shape means creating a logo that will look good and could also have significant meaning and stick in people’s minds.

Why do logo shapes matter?

So, while choosing the shape, think about you or your brand’s personality and the kind of message you wish to send across.

Following are some of the most common shapes used in designing a logo:

Square Shape Logo

Many people also identify squares with reliability since squares are basically structures that have been put in place to achieve specific objectives. They can also be used to represent equality, fairness, and balance. Due to their relative lack of curves and rich shapes and their mirror-like symmetry, oval shapes are used widely for logos as they symbolize clear and orderly thinking. Square logos add professionalism, reliability, and trustworthiness to any company in the market. They can also be used to create associations with such qualities as solidity, stability, security, etc.

Square Shape Logo

First of all, one must take into consideration the meaning and the associations of squares as the type and the shape of the logo. For instance, a shape that is square with round corners can easily be associated with friendliness, but a shape that is square with sharp corners will be associated with seriousness.

Furthermore, depending on the color harmony combined in the logo also plays an integral part in the perception of the logo. For instance, using a square logo with a bright color would be regarded as optimistic and lively, while a square logo that wears a dark or dull color would be considered classy.

Circle Shape Logo

Circles are typically used to represent togetherness, continuity, and totality. In addition to being signifying cyclical motion, they can represent unity, symmetry, and wholeness. Their shapes are unbroken and do not have the alpha and the omega, making them denote eternity and cycle. Circle logos are chosen to give a company or brand more unity, togetherness, and affiliation with its customers. They can also be used to create the feelings associated with warmth, households, and familiarity.

Circle Shape Logo

One thing that has to be taken into account when creating a circle logo is what certain connotations specific shapes have. For example, the circle with a hole in it will be viewed as more active, and the circle that is completely closed looks more complete.

Furthermore, the shades of color that can be used in the logo also determine its perception to the audience. For instance, a circle logo done in an animation color can be associated with joviality and vigor compared to a circle logo done in a serious color, which can be associated with elegance and class.

Triangle Shape Logo

The triangles are said to represent power, balance, and progression. It can also represent success, striving, and the desire for control or chiefdom. Due to their pointed tips, these kinds of shapes can give a feeling of orientation, goal, and activity. A triangle logo is preferred by organizations that require a logo that has a sense of strength, determination, and innovation for the business.

Triangle Shape Logo

In the process of creating a logo in the form of a triangle, the direction of the forming triangle should be taken into consideration. An upward triangle can represent growth, hope, and victory because it reaches upwards. Depending on the position, a downward-pointing triangle can have a meaning of stability, foundation, and so forth. Each of the sides of the triangle may be positioned to the side, allowing for its form to represent balance, duality, or perspective.

Vertical and horizontal logo shapes

The logo shapes can also be classified as Vertical logos and Horizontal logos.

Vertical logos are relatively thin, extending more downward than they do sideways; horizontal logos are quite wide, extending more sideways than they do downward.

Popular types of logos include horizontal, vertical, and other types, where logos can be used to portray highness, height, and growth, among others. These can also be used to depict formality, class, or anything that you would want to represent as very classy.

Vertical and horizontal logo shapes

While using horizontal logos, stability, balance, and regularity are some of the feelings that can prevail. They can also be utilized to establish friendliness and a non-threatening and inviting atmosphere.

The decision to either go vertical or horizontal tends to be influenced by the personality of the brand, the message it sends and another thing is the nature of the target market. For instance, a vertical logo can suit a company that aims at establishing its authority, while a horizontal logo can suit a company that aims at winning over a client’s trust.

cultural logo shapes

It is very important to recognize that cultural logo shapes are not just mere signs; but rather, they are the images of a particular culture. They are all inspired by traditions, myths, and artworks of different regions and thus allow for a glimpse of the locals’ genuine culture.

cultural logo shapes

Eastern Culture

In Eastern cultures, symbolism is associated with religious and philosophical connotations. The sign is a Chinese symbol of duality and balance represented as two opposite but complementary circles and can often be seen in logos associated with spirituality, health, or philosophy. Fierce and legendary characters such as dragons, which represent power, knowledge, and prosperity, are also favorite characters. The one based on the lotus flower as it is the flower of enlightenment and the recurrent lotus – is used by organizations related to spirituality, meditation, and well-being.

Western Culture

There are also many cultural symbols in Western cultures. One of the most widely recognizable trademarks, the cross, is associated with Christianity and is used by religious, charity, and business organizations, representing Christian principles. The organ, known as the Star of David, is a Jewish emblem that refers to the link between God and the Jewish community. It is adopted in logos of Jewish organizations and cultural establishments. The moon and star as an emblem of the Islamic religion are common among Islamic organizations, charities, and cultural groups all over the world.

Tips for choosing your logo shapes

  • Your brand’s personality and values should be represented in your logo design.
  • Know your target audience and tailor your design to fit their needs.
  • It is simpler to recall a tidy layout.
  • Your logo should appear attractive across different platforms and sizes.
  • Reflect on the meaning associated with various geometric forms.
  • A design that is timeless will remain enduring.
  • Obtain feedback from others to enhance your design.
  • For specialized advice and personalization, Hire a professional logo design company.

Wrapping Up

In essence, it means that when you stand or design a logo, you ought to know the psychological impact different shapes of a logo will have on the intended market. Do not forget that the logo is an effective instrument that will help you to address the people and start the effective selling of the goods to achieve a successful embodied enterprise.

FAQs

Do Logo Shapes Really Matter?

Certainly, the shapes of a logo can greatly influence how customers view your brand. Various shapes elicit distinct emotions and connections, impacting how a brand is perceived and affecting decisions to buy.

What are the shapes for logo design?

Typical shapes include geometric figures (circles, squares, triangles), natural forms (hearts, leaves, drops), non-representational designs (ribbons, swirls), and mixtures.

What are the hidden meanings in logo shapes?

Symbolic meanings are assigned to shapes; unity is often represented by circles, stability by squares, and power by triangles. Comprehending these definitions can assist you in selecting the appropriate form for your brand.

What are the different shapes of the logo?

Thinking beyond simple shapes, negative space, typography, and combinations can provide innovative options for logos that stand out and are easy to remember.

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