Understanding Different Types of Logos for Your Brand and How to Use Them

In today’s competitive market, the logo is not just a symbol, It is the identity of your brand. A well-designed logo conveys the core values of your company and mission. If you are looking for custom logo designs for embroidery, whether for uniforms, hats, or other apparel, understanding the different types of logos will help you choose one that fits your brand.

At True Digitizing, we help businesses bring their logo designs to life through custom embroidery digitizing services. Whether you have a complex combination mark or a simple wordmark, we digitize your logo to suit all your branding needs. But first, let's discuss the various types of logos and how to use them that could shape your brand identity.

Table of Contents

What is a Logo?

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A logo is a graphic symbol or emblem representing a company, product, or brand. It’s the first thing people notice and often forms a lasting impression. Logos are key visual branding elements, offering a shorthand way to communicate your brand’s message and values.
Why Logos are Important?
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Your logo is an important part of your overall brand identity. It establishes brand recognition, builds trust, and sets you apart from competitors. When your audience sees your logo consistently across different platforms, whether it’s a website, business card, business name, or embroidered on a shirt, it strengthens brand recognition.
In today’s world, logos must be adaptable. Whether on digital screens or printed on apparel, the right and best logo style will leave an impactful mark. That's where choosing the correct type of logo for your brand becomes crucial.
For companies looking to customize their items with logos, whether through embroidery on shirts or caps. True Digitizing offers professional custom embroidery digitizing services that ensure your logo appears sharp and impactful.

Types of Logos
There are various types of logos, each with its own strengths. Let’s explore the most common logo styles and their importance in branding.
1: Combination Mark Logos
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A combination mark logo blends text with a symbol or an icon, allowing you to use either the text or the symbol on its own, depending on the application.
How and When to Use Them?
Combination logos are highly versatile. They can be used across various mediums, including business cards, websites, and promotional materials. Because they incorporate both text visuals, they convey your brand message more effectively.
Importance in Branding
These logos may ideal for creating a solid visual identity. The combination of text and imagery makes it easier for consumers to recognize and remember your brand.
Examples
Examples include Burger King and Lacoste, both of which utilize a combination mark to represent their brand.
2: Wordmark Logos
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Wordmark or lettermark logos consist solely of the company name written in a distinct font or style. They rely on typography to create a memorable image.
How and When to Use Them?
Wordmarks are best suited for businesses with unique or short brand names. They are good for making your brand name stand out without using any logo symbols or icons.
Importance in Branding
Wordmark logos ensure that your brand name is front and center. This is especially important if brand recognition is a primary goal.
Examples: Famous wordmark logos include Coca-Cola and Google.
3: Lettermark Logos
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Lettermark logos, also known as monogram logos, use initials or abbreviations of a brand’s name. They simplify a longer name into a visually appealing graphic.
How and When to Use Them?
Lettermarks are perfect for companies with long names that want to create a simpler, cleaner look. They work well for creating a recognizable, professional image.
Importance in Branding
By simplifying complex names, lettermarks make brands easier to remember and identify.
Examples: Think of IBM, NASA, and HBO, which all use lettermark logos to create a memorable presence.
4: Monogram Logos
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Similar to lettermarks, monogram logos use overlapping letters or initials to create a cohesive symbol.
How and When to Use Them?
Monogram logos are best for brands looking to create a refined, professional image. They work especially well for fashion, luxury, and personal branding.
Importance in Branding
Monogram logos allow brands to have a distinctive mark that can be easily applied to various materials, from packaging to apparel.
Examples: Louis Vuitton and Chanel are iconic examples of monogram logos.
5: Letterform Logos
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Letterform logos are simplified to a single letter, typically stylized to create a unique visual representation of the brand.
How and When to Use Them?
These logos are best for brands with strong recognition, where a single letter can instantly reflect the brand.
Importance in Branding
Letterform logos are minimalist. They are easy to use across different branding materials, from business cards to embroidered merchandise.
Examples: McDonald's famous "M" and Netflix’s "N" are standout examples of letterform logos.
6: Symbol or Pictorial Logos
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Symbol logos use icons to represent a brand. These logos reflect the brand message, without text, to convey the brand message.
How and When to Use Them?
Pictorial logos are the best for companies that are easily recognized by a specific image or icon.
Importance in Branding
These logos are highly memorable and are especially effective for global brands, where language barriers might exist.
Examples: The Apple logos is a perfect example of symbol logos.
7: Abstract Logos
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Abstract logos use geometric forms or unique shapes to create an image that represents the brand without being overly literal.
How and When to Use Them?
Abstract logo marks are perfect for brands looking to create a modern and versatile image that stands out in public.
Importance in Branding
These logos allow for more creativity, as they are not bound by traditional design rules. They help convey a brand’s values or mission artistically.
Examples: The Pepsi logo is an example of an abstract logo design.
8: Mascot Logos
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Mascot logos feature a character or illustrated figure that represents the brand, giving it a more personable and relatable identity.
How and When to Use Them?
Mascot logos are often used for brands targeting families or children. They are effective in creating a fun and approachable image.
Importance in Branding
Mascots can be the identity of a brand and help in establishing a more relatable and engaging presence.
Examples: Brands like KFC’s Colonel Sanders or the Pillsbury Doughboy use mascot logos effectively.
9: Emblem Logos
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Emblem logos feature text inside a symbol or badge. They often have a traditional, formal look.
How and When to Use Them?
Emblem logos are usually used by schools, organizations, and government bodies. They give a brand a sense of authority and history.
Importance in Branding
Emblems are strong representations of trust and reliability, making them great for formal institutions.
Examples: Harley-Davidson and Starbucks are well-known for their emblem logos.
10: Letters Inside Shape Logos
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This logo style places the brand's letters within a geometric shape to create a visually appealing design.
How and When to Use Them?
These logos are best for companies that want to combine both simplicity and creativity.
Importance in Branding
The structured design makes it easy for brands to have a consistent logo that fits various applications.
Examples: Examples include the BBC and Unilever logos.
11: Negative Space Logos
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Negative space logos creatively use the space around and between letters or images to create hidden images or meanings.
How and When to Use Them?
Negative space logos are ideal for brands that want to appear clever and innovative.
Importance in Branding
These logos engage the audience by making them look twice and adding an element of surprise.
Examples: The FedEx logo is a famous example with its hidden arrow.
12: Dynamic Logos
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Dynamic logos change in look, adapting to different settings or contexts while maintaining the core brand identity.
How and When to Use Them?
These logos are good for brands that want to evolve with time and trends without losing their identity.
Importance in Branding
They give freedom and keep the brand fresh and relevant.
Examples: Google's changing doodle is an example of a dynamic logo.
13: 3D Logos
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3D logos use shading, gradients, and depth to create a logo that appears three-dimensional.
How and When to Use Them?
These are best for brands in industries like tech, gaming, or media, where modern, cutting-edge design is critical.
Importance in Branding
3D logos give a modern and innovative feel, making the brand stand out.
Examples: Brands like NVIDIA use 3D logos effectively.
14: Animated Logos
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Animated logos bring a brand’s logo to life through motion and movement.
How and When to Use Them?
Animated logos are perfect for brands that use video content or want to create a dynamic, engaging digital presence.
Importance in Branding
They grab attention and can be memorable, especially in online and video formats.
Examples: Many video production companies, like Pixar, use animated logos to introduce their content.
Choosing the Right Type of Logos for Brand Identity
Choosing the right logo is key to building a strong brand identity. Know your industry, target audience, and brand values when choosing a logo. For example, a tech startup might lean towards an abstract logo, while a family restaurant may find a mascot logo more suitable.
4 Logo Variations Every Brand Identity Needs
To maintain consistency across all platforms, every brand should have these four logo variations:
Primary Logo: The main logo used on most branding materials.

Secondary Logo: A simplified version of the primary logo for smaller applications.

Icon or Mark: A standalone symbol or icon.

Logo Lockup: A combination of the logo and the brand name.
Conclusion
Understanding the different logo types is important for building a brand that stands out. Whether it’s a simple wordmark or a complex emblem, the right logo boosts your brand identity and creates a lasting impression. If you're ready to bring your logo to life with embroidery, True Digitizing helps you transform your design into beautifully embroidered logos.

Nick William

Embroidery Digitizer

Nick William has been immersed in the world of embroidery digitizing for over 20 years, earning 25 industry awards throughout his career. As a 3rd generation embroidery expert, Nick’s journey started in his family’s workshop, where he learned the art of digitizing before the rise of modern software. He has worked with leading commercial embroidery businesses and has shared his expertise with over 75,000 home and professional embroiderers. As an author at True Digitizing, Nick is passionate about teaching others how to create beautiful, precise designs through easy-to-follow tutorials and expert advice.