How to Redesign an Outdated Logo the Right Way

How to Redesign an Outdated Logo the Right Way

How to Redesign an Outdated Logo the Right Way

Discover expert tips, logo redesign strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.

Discover expert tips, logo redesign strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.

Discover expert tips, logo redesign strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.

Published Jun 8, 2025

Published Jun 8, 2025

Modern workspace with startup notebook and design tools used for professional logo redesign process
Modern workspace with startup notebook and design tools used for professional logo redesign process
Modern workspace with startup notebook and design tools used for professional logo redesign process

A logo is more than just a symbol—it's the face of your brand. But even the most iconic logos need a refresh from time to time. Whether your logo feels dated, doesn’t scale well, or no longer reflects your brand’s direction, a thoughtful redesign can breathe new life into your identity.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to redesign an outdated logo the right way—without alienating your audience or losing brand recognition.

Creative redesign process using vibrant color palette and brush for updating outdated logo design.
Creative redesign process using vibrant color palette and brush for updating outdated logo design.
Creative redesign process using vibrant color palette and brush for updating outdated logo design.

Creative redesign process using vibrant color palette and brush for updating outdated logo design.

Why Redesign a Logo?

Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand why a logo redesign might be necessary. Common reasons include:

  • Outdated design trends (e.g., skeuomorphism, gradients)

  • Poor scalability (doesn’t work well on mobile or social media)

  • Brand evolution (new mission, audience, or services)

  • Inconsistency across platforms

  • Negative associations or confusion

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Redesigning a Logo

1. Audit Your Current Logo

Start by evaluating what works and what doesn’t. Ask:

  • Is it recognizable?

  • Does it reflect our current brand values?

  • Is it versatile across digital and print?

  • What feedback have we received from users or clients?

2. Define Your Brand Identity

Before sketching anything, revisit your brand’s core:

  • Mission and vision

  • Target audience

  • Brand personality (e.g., bold, elegant, playful)

  • Competitor landscape

This ensures your new logo aligns with your brand’s direction.

3. Decide on a Redesign vs. Refresh
  • Logo Refresh: Minor tweaks (e.g., font update, color adjustment)

  • Logo Redesign: Complete overhaul (e.g., new symbol, layout, or concept)

If your current logo has strong recognition, a refresh may be safer.

4. Sketch Concepts and Explore Styles

Start with rough sketches. Explore:

  • Typography-based logos (wordmarks)

  • Symbol + wordmark combinations

  • Monograms or initials

  • Abstract or geometric shapes

Use tools like:

  • Adobe Illustrator

  • Figma

  • Procreate (for sketching)

5. Choose the Right Typography and Colors
  • Typography: Should reflect your brand tone (e.g., serif for tradition, sans-serif for modernity)

  • Color Palette: Use color psychology to evoke the right emotions (e.g., blue = trust, green = growth)

Ensure readability and contrast across all sizes and backgrounds.

6. Test for Versatility

Your logo should work:

  • In black and white

  • At small sizes (e.g., favicons, app icons)

  • On light and dark backgrounds

  • In horizontal and stacked formats

🧪 Pro Tip: Create mockups for business cards, websites, and social media to test real-world application.

7. Get Feedback

Share your top 2–3 concepts with:

  • Internal stakeholders

  • Loyal customers

  • Design peers

Look for patterns in feedback and refine accordingly.

8. Finalize and Create a Brand Kit

Once approved, export your logo in multiple formats:

  • SVG, PNG, JPG, PDF

  • Color variations (full color, black, white)

  • Favicon and app icon versions

Include usage guidelines in a brand kit to ensure consistency.

🚫 Common Logo Redesign Mistakes to Avoid

  • Changing too much too fast – Risk of losing brand recognition

  • Following trends blindly – Can make your logo feel dated quickly

  • Ignoring scalability – A logo must work on everything from billboards to mobile screens

  • Skipping research – Leads to misalignment with your brand or audience

  • Not testing in context – A logo that looks great on a white screen may fail on packaging or signage

🎯 Final Thoughts: Evolve Without Losing Identity

A successful logo redesign honors your brand’s past while preparing it for the future. It’s not just about looking modern—it’s about staying relevant, memorable, and aligned with your mission.

Take your time, trust the process, and remember: the best logos aren’t just seen—they’re felt.

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© The Editor Suite 2025. All Rights Reserved

Let’s Work Together

We’re always striving to create the best products and execute projects to the highest standards.

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We’re always striving to create the best products and execute projects to the highest standards.

© The Editor Suite 2025. All Rights Reserved