Are you on Brand or on Bland?
Ever scrolled through LinkedIn or walked down the street and thought, “Didn’t I just see that logo… five times before lunch?” You’re not alone. Today, so many brands are drifting into a sea of sameness simple logos, muted colours, and the kind of style that blends into the background instead of boldly standing out.
It’s true plenty of global giants are embracing minimalist logos. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, simplicity can be powerful. But here’s the secret: behind every “simple” logo sits a thoughtful, intentional brand style. Think about Apple, Airbnb, or Spotify. Their logos may be straightforward, but their personality oozes from everything they do, the colours, imagery, and tone of voice that always feel unmistakably them.
Style Counts. Even for Small Businesses
If your logo is simple but your brand style is missing, you risk being forgettable. In a crowded marketplace, being distinct isn’t a luxury it’s a necessity. Your audience can’t connect with a blank slate; they want to see who you are, not just what you do.
You don’t need a multi-national budget or a big-city agency behind you. What you need is a creative partner who gets your business and your ideal customers and who can bring out your story in a way that feels right for you.
Go Beyond the Logo: The Power of a Strapline
Don’t forget your strapline! A great strapline sums up your approach, reassures your audience, or even raises a smile. Think of it as your brand’s promise in a nutshell. Take ours at Lounge Design: “Relax. We’ll take care of it.” For us, it’s not just a line it’s a way of working. We look after our clients with calm, friendly expertise, making sure they feel supported from the first chat to project delivery. Your strapline should reflect what you really offer and how you do it because people remember brands that make them feel something.
So, How Do You Stand Out?
- Define your audience. Who are you here for? Get specific.
- Build your brand palette. Colours, fonts, imagery and tone choose what truly reflects your business.
- Craft a genuine strapline. Capture your promise or personality in a few memorable words.
- Be consistent, everywhere. From your website to your invoices, one recognisable style.
- Don’t follow the herd. Asking “Does this feel like us?” is more important than “Is this what everyone else is doing?”
The Takeaway
A simple logo is a starting point not the finish line. Combine it with a vibrant brand style and a strapline that hits home with your unique audience, and you’ll never be mistaken for anyone else.
Your brand should make people feel something. Bland just won’t cut it.
Curious about how to develop a brand style (and strapline) that sticks? Let’s talk. Because on-brand always beats on-bland.
