# Logo Style Guide

## Core Logo Types

### 1. Wordmark (Logotype)
Text-only logo using custom typography.
- **Best for:** Established brands, distinctive names
- **Examples:** Google, Coca-Cola, FedEx
- **Typography:** Custom letterforms, unique kerning
- **Tip:** Name must be memorable and pronounceable

### 2. Lettermark (Monogram)
Initials or abbreviated letters.
- **Best for:** Long company names, professional firms
- **Examples:** IBM, HBO, NASA
- **Typography:** Bold geometric sans-serif
- **Tip:** Works well for brands with 2-4 letter abbreviations

### 3. Pictorial Mark (Brand Mark)
Standalone icon or symbol.
- **Best for:** Global brands with recognition
- **Examples:** Apple, Twitter, Target
- **Design:** Simple, scalable, memorable shape
- **Tip:** Requires brand equity to work alone

### 4. Abstract Mark
Non-representational geometric shapes.
- **Best for:** Tech companies, differentiating brands
- **Examples:** Pepsi, Airbnb, Spotify
- **Design:** Unique shape conveying brand values
- **Tip:** Can represent complex ideas simply

### 5. Mascot
Character representing the brand.
- **Best for:** Family brands, sports teams, food
- **Examples:** KFC, Pringles, Michelin
- **Design:** Friendly, expressive, versatile
- **Tip:** Can evolve with brand while maintaining recognition

### 6. Emblem
Symbol enclosed within a shape.
- **Best for:** Traditional brands, organizations
- **Examples:** Starbucks, Harley-Davidson, NFL
- **Design:** Badge, seal, or crest style
- **Tip:** May have scalability challenges

### 7. Combination Mark
Icon + text in unified design.
- **Best for:** New brands, versatile applications
- **Examples:** Burger King, Lacoste, Doritos
- **Design:** Lockup with flexible arrangements
- **Tip:** Most versatile, can separate elements later

## Aesthetic Styles

### Minimalist
- Clean lines, essential elements only
- High white space, simple geometry
- Limited color palette (1-2 colors)
- **Use:** Tech, professional services, modern brands

### Vintage/Retro
- Nostalgic, heritage feel
- Distressed textures, muted colors
- Script or slab serif typography
- **Use:** Craft brands, artisan products

### Luxury/Premium
- Elegant, refined aesthetic
- Gold, black, white color scheme
- Thin serifs or sophisticated sans
- **Use:** Fashion, jewelry, high-end services

### Geometric
- Mathematical precision
- Circles, triangles, squares
- Perfect symmetry
- **Use:** Architecture, tech, modern brands

### Organic/Natural
- Flowing, imperfect lines
- Earth tones, natural colors
- Hand-drawn feel
- **Use:** Eco brands, wellness, organic products

### Gradient/Modern
- Color transitions, vibrant palettes
- Dimensional depth
- Contemporary feel
- **Use:** Apps, tech startups, digital products

## Style Selection Matrix

| Brand Type | Primary Style | Secondary Options |
|------------|---------------|-------------------|
| Tech Startup | Minimalist, Abstract | Geometric, Gradient |
| Law Firm | Wordmark, Emblem | Lettermark |
| Restaurant | Mascot, Badge | Vintage, Combination |
| Fashion | Wordmark, Luxury | Monogram, Line Art |
| Healthcare | Professional, Line Art | Abstract, Combination |
| Non-Profit | Combination, Emblem | Organic, Hand-Drawn |

## Scalability Checklist

- [ ] Recognizable at 16x16 pixels (favicon)
- [ ] Clear at business card size
- [ ] Works in single color
- [ ] Maintains clarity in black/white
- [ ] No tiny details that disappear when scaled
