5 Fascinating Stories Behind Iconic Logo Designs

A logo is more than a visual symbol — it is a storytelling tool that captures a brand’s identity, values, and history. Some of the world’s most famous logos hide clever secrets or unexpected origins that make them unforgettable.

Here are five fascinating stories behind iconic logo designs — from ice cream and candy to fashion, oil, and chocolate.


1. Baskin Robbins: A Secret in Every Scoop

The Baskin Robbins logo cleverly hides the number 31 within the letters B and R. This represents the brand’s promise of “a flavor for every day of the month.”

📌 Fun fact: At the time the logo was designed, Baskin Robbins didn’t actually have 31 flavors. The logo itself inspired the company to expand its menu — proving how powerful creative branding can be.


2. Chupa Chups: Designed by Salvador Dalí

Few logos can claim to be designed by a legendary artist. The Chupa Chups logo was created by surrealist painter Salvador Dalí.

• Inspired by Spain’s national colors, the vivid red and yellow made the logo stand out.

• Dalí’s design also perfectly matched the circular shape of the lollipop, making it functional as well as iconic.

This collaboration transformed Chupa Chups into a global symbol of playful creativity.

3. Lacoste: The Crocodile from the Tennis Court

The Lacoste crocodile logo has its roots in tennis. French champion René Lacoste earned the nickname “The Crocodile” for his fierce playing style.

• A friend designed a crocodile emblem, which René proudly wore on his shirts.

• This simple gesture evolved into one of the most recognizable fashion logos in the world.

Today, the crocodile is not just a logo — it’s a badge of prestige and sport-inspired style.



4. Shell: From Seashells to Oil Powerhouse

The Shell logo reflects the company’s unexpected origins. Before entering oil and gas, Marcus Samuel ran a small business importing and selling decorative seashells.

When the business expanded into energy, the seashell remained as a symbol of heritage and resilience. Nearly two centuries later, the scallop shell continues to be one of the world’s most instantly recognizable corporate logos.

5. Toblerone: The Hidden Bear in the Mountain

The Toblerone logo features the Matterhorn, representing the brand’s Swiss roots. But hidden within the mountain is the outline of a bear — a tribute to Bern, Switzerland, where Toblerone was founded.

This subtle detail highlights the brand’s connection to its birthplace, while reinforcing Swiss tradition and identity.

Why These Logo Stories Matter

Logos are not just graphic designs — they are powerful storytelling devices. Each of these examples shows how a logo can:

• Convey a brand’s history and values.

• Create emotional connections with customers.

• Strengthen recognition across global markets.

Whether you’re launching a new brand or refreshing your visual identity, remember that a strong logo can do more than capture attention — it can turn your company into a lasting legend.