The Influence of Logo Design Complexity on Color and Brand Personality

Logos have strong communicative power. Companies dedicate a considerable amount of time and money to designing their logo because logos have the ability to convey important information about their identity. Color also has strong communicative power, especially as found in packaging. Therefore, this study examines the relationship between black packaging and logo complexity to test whether logo design can change perceptions of color. The study also analyzes millennialist trends in logo design preferences. I designed and tested two logos to determine how complex logos influence consumer perceptions of brand identity differently than simple logos. Next, I collected responses using a Qualtrics survey. Independent samples t tests revealed that companies who use a complex logo are perceived as more expensive and upper-class. Meanwhile, companies who use simple logos are seen as contemporary and sophisticated. Although the t test results were not statistically significant, the qualitative responses were consistent with the t test findings. Despite the initial hypothesis, millennials showed a greater preference for the complex logo than the simple logo. I also found that incorporating natural elements into the design led participants to perceive the brand as sustainable. Natural elements can often be translated into femininity, as participants expected products packaged with a natural logo to target females. These findings were used to create logo design recommendations for cosmetic companies with lower brand equity.