12 Retro Logos That Brands Should Bring Back
These logos weren’t just designs; they were part of pop culture, capturing the spirit of their time. From bold fonts to funky colors, these throwback logos deserve a comeback in the modern era.
- Tricia Quitales
- 3 min read
Logos are more than company symbols; they’re emotional triggers that remind us of different moments in life. In the past, many brands had unique, colorful logos that stood out and told a story. Over the years, many of those classic designs were replaced with sleeker, more minimal versions. Take a nostalgic trip through branding history with this article highlighting 12 retro logos that still live rent-free in our memories.
1. Pepsi (1973–1991) Logo
Trenth208 on Wikimedia
The bold, circular logo with red, white, and blue waves had a strong presence. It felt patriotic and energetic, like a symbol of coolness. The newer versions are cleaner but don’t have the same retro charm.
2. Burger King (1994–1999)
Burger King on Wikimedia
With its stacked bun-and-letter logo, this version was playful and full of flavor. It looked like something straight off a cartoon menu, which made it fun and inviting. Fans still connect it to their childhood Happy Meals.
3. Mountain Dew (1980s)
Rowanswiki on Wikimedia
This logo had jagged, wild energy that matched the drink’s extreme vibe. The hand-drawn lettering felt edgy and rebellious. It screamed 1980s skate culture, and that spirit is missing today.
4. Apple Rainbow Logo (1977–1998)
Rob Janoff on Wikimedia
Before the sleek silver apple icon, there was the rainbow version—colorful and creative. It showed the fun side of tech and felt welcoming. It captured Apple’s playful innovation long before it was “cool.”
5. Nike Script Logo (1978)
Stefan Noack on Wikimedia
Nike’s short-lived script logo gave off sporty, retro energy. It looked fresh on sneakers and gym bags alike. The swoosh is iconic now, but the script logo had its own old-school vibe.
6. Wendy’s (1983–2012)
David Vasquez on Wikimedia
Wendy’s old logo featured a wholesome, smiling girl with a little more detail and warmth. It felt homey and personal, like a meal made with care. The current logo is sleek, but it’s lost some of that charm.
7. Pizza Hut Roof Logo (1967–1999)
Yum! Brands. on Wikimedia
This version with the red roof was unmistakable. It felt cozy and family-friendly, like a place where birthday parties and pizza nights happened. The retro roof design was full of personality.
8. Kodak (1971–1987)
Alf van Beem on Wikimedia
The old Kodak logo had a bold “K” inside a red-and-yellow frame that stood for memories. It reminded people of film rolls, family trips, and photo albums. The retro look is still beloved by photography fans today.
9. Reebok (1990s Vector Logo)
Reebok & Darrin Crescenzi Studio on Wikimedia
The angular “vector” logo screamed athletic style. It was everywhere, from basketball courts to track shoes. This version gave Reebok serious street cred back in the day.
10. Old MTV Logo (1981–1994)
Unknown author on Wikimedia
With its graffiti-style “M” and bouncing “TV,” this logo matched the wild creativity of early music videos. It felt rebellious and original, just like the channel itself. It was loud, proud, and pure ‘80s energy.
11. Fisher-Price (Pre-2000s Logo)
Mattel, Inc. on Wikimedia
The classic version had bubbly letters and rainbow colors that screamed childhood joy. It reminded people of toy chests, playdates, and Saturday morning cartoons. The simpler, modern logo doesn’t quite spark the same feeling.
12. Google (1998 Beta Version)
Google on Wikimedia
The first Google logo looked like it was made in MS Paint, but that’s part of the charm. It had a playful, experimental look that matched the internet’s early days. It felt human and a little quirky, which people miss in today’s clean-cut branding.