The Design Evolution of Vector Logos: 12 Brands That Stay Visible Throughout the Years

The following is a guest post from DepositPhotos.


For centuries, logotypes have been an essential element of brand identity. Transformed into a vectorized format, a good vector logo design attracts customers while being a powerful symbol. These vectorized logotypes are the backbone of effective branding, allowing a business to maintain consistency and clarity across multiple platforms and mediums. 

Whether you are a novice or experienced entrepreneur, learning about renowned brand logotypes could expand your vision and get your creative juices flowing. This article looks at the evolution of iconic vectorized logos from various industries, focusing on their qualities and influence. 

Shared features of a high-quality vector logo design

  • Scalability. Since logo vectors are created using mathematical equations, they all stand out in terms of scalability. In other words, each vector can be resized without losing quality, which makes these logotypes ideal for multiple settings, including mobile app icons, large-scale banners, flyers, etc.;
  • Timelessness. High-quality vector logos transcend fleeting design trends, focusing on classic shapes and lines that remain effective across decades. Take Nike swoosh, for example. This symbol remains virtually unchanged yet still powerful, which only stresses the importance of a timeless design approach;
  • Versatility. Vectorized logotypes are adaptable to various backgrounds and orientations without redesigning. While some vectors can be slightly modernized, they retain their original character. This feature is perfect for rebranding and digital adaptation.

FAQ: How can you design a cool vector logotype?

First, you must understand your brand’s core identity. Research your mission and target audience to ensure the logo checks all the necessary boxes. It’s also best to keep it simple and easy to digest and recall. You don’t necessarily have to stick with monochromatic patterns; a unique gradient, custom font, or an unusual shape can take your logo up a notch. You can also utilise ready-made vector logos by Depositphotos to refine your ideal sketch or create a pack of logotypes for various platforms, formats, and contexts. 

Two automotive MVPs: Porsche and Ford logo vectors

The oval Ford logo has undergone multiple refinements since its inception in 1907, evolving from an ornate font to its current clean and modern design. Incorporating a blue backdrop with white lettering and a quirky font curve refers to the brand’s affluent history and background. The simplicity and clarity of the current vector ensure it stays easily recognizable, whether on a car grill, mug, or digital marketing materials.

Ford logo / image from Depositphotos

Similarly, the Porsche crest has changed little over time but has been subtly modernised to ensure it remains a symbol of luxury and performance. The best thing about the Porsche vector logo is that it’s crisp and saturated on high-end vehicle parts and in print, adding style and grandeur. 

Porsche logo / image from Depositphotos

The Internet pioneer: Google logo vector

The Google logo is the best example of why simplicity matters. Initially designed as a hand with the word BackRub, it has transitioned to a flat, sans-serif Google that embodies clarity and minimalism. Its primary colours are clean, and the vector format gives it an extra kick, making the logo versatile and professional.

Google Logo

Compare Google with brands like Amazon and Yahoo, whose logos have undergone multiple redesigning stages in years, honing in on sleeker and more digital-friendly icons. However, they have also adopted the vector format to ensure consistency across online and offline channels.

Vector logo design in sports

Official logotypes of five USA sports leagues: NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, MLS / image from Depositphotos

In sports, each association has its unique logotype in addition to teams. However, unlike teams, logos for leagues tend to be more conservative in evolution and redesign. The NFL logo vector is an excellent example of such moderation. While relatively unchanged, the NFL’s shield logotype has seen a few updates to improve clarity and colour calibration. The NFL vectorized logo retains authority by renovating small elements like star placement and font. 

The same can be said about the NBA logo. Its icon (with Jerry West depicted on it) seems to have always been around, but it only emerged in 1969. The National Basketball Association, however, traces back almost 80 years. Nonetheless, today’s dynamic vectorized design is scalable and used effectively on merchandise and the internet.   

E-sports is a relatively new area featuring bold, sharp lines and vibrant colours, conveying energy, competition, and technological prowess. Cybersports logos capture the intensity and fast-paced nature of the gaming world, making them visually striking and distinguishable. From Fnatic’s abstract design resembling a futuristic, stylised insect and Cloud9’s sleek, interconnected figure depicting a cloud of infinity symbols rendered in a light blue hue to Team Liquid’s knight’s head in a vectorized style, these logo designs demonstrate how esports teams combine symbolism with modernity. Each element carries a rich meaning and ensures recognition across multiple esports disciplines. 

Eye-catching vector logo designs of renowned brands

  • Starbucks. The Starbucks vectorized logo has experienced a series of simplifications, gradually shedding details. The purpose was to become a bold, green circular logotype that is instantly identifiable, even without text;
  • BBC. BBC’s simple block letters in a black-and-white scheme reflect clarity, with years of operation adding to authority. The logo demonstrates how a no-frills design can still be influential worldwide;
  • Domino’s. This legendary pizza parlor has simplified its logo over the years, dropping the text and accentuating the vectorized domino icon. The pizzeria’s vector logo is easily recognizable on billboards and digital ads;
  • Olympics. The Olympic rings symbolize unity and global competition, and the simplicity ensures the vector is high-quality and points to a symbol of athletic achievement. 

Summing up

Vectorized logo designs allow brands and organisations to evolve while delivering quality and visual appeal. Whether subtle changes in colour, font, linework, or an overhaul, vector logos remain crisp and enable companies to stay modern and preserve their heritage. Such designs endure because they can adapt to new formats and trends without sacrificing their core identity. As a brand owner, learning from the provided companies and leagues exemplifies how you can leverage vector logos to stay visible and impactful throughout the years. 

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