The iconic Starbucks logo, with its two-tailed siren, is instantly recognizable worldwide. However, you might be wondering, why does the Starbuks logo have two tails? The answer lies in the brand's rich history and the evolution of its logo design.
To understand the rationale behind the two-tailed mermaid in the Starbucks logo, let's delve into the story behind its creation and the symbolism it embodies.
The Original Logo: Influenced by Greek Mythology
Inspired by an old Norse woodcut from a book written by Alec S. Hogg in 1918, Starbucks' first logo depicted a two-tailed mermaid, or siren, from Greek mythology. The original logo, designed in 1971, aimed to capture the seafaring history and adventurous spirit of the company's founders.
The ancient Greek myth of Sirenum Scopuli, where sailors were lured by sirens' enchanting music and voices to shipwreck on the rocky islands, resonated with the founders' aspirations to create a brand that captivated customers with its unique offerings.
The Two Tails: A Symbol of Allure and Hypnotism
The two tails of the siren in Starbucks' logo served a dual purpose in the original design. Firstly, they symbolized the allure and attractiveness of the mythical creatures, drawing sailors in with their charms. Secondly, the two tails represented the hypnotizing effect sirens had on their victims, lulling them into a trance and losing sight of their objectives.
This symbolism was designed to reflect Starbucks' endeavour to create an equally captivating and enchanting customer experience that would leave a lasting impression on coffee lovers.
Evolution of the Logo: Simplification and Focus on the Siren
In 1987, the Starbucks logo underwent a redesign, simplifying the overall layout and”“ boxing”” the siren to create a more cohesive and professional image. The green border was eliminated, and the company name was harmoniously integrated into the design, creating a cleaner look that emphasized the siren's captivating gaze.
The two-tailed siren remained a central element, emphasizing the brand's commitment to preserving its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as retaining the symbolism behind the original design.
The Current Logo: The Siren's Crown and Its Cultural Significance
In 2011, Starbucks introduced a significant update to its logo, removing the company name and outer ring to create a more minimalist and iconic image. The two-tailed siren, now wearing a crown, stood proud and prominent, symbolizing the brand's growth and evolution.
The crown, an addition to the siren's headdress, represents Starbucks' commitment to its customers and the company's refinement and sophistication. The two-tailed mermaid retained its significance, continuing to serve as a visual representation of the brand's enchanting and alluring appeal.
The Siren's Crown: A Sign of Royalty and Prestige
The inclusion of the siren's crown in the updated Starbucks logo elevated the design with a touch of regality, reflecting the brand's aspirations to provide a premium coffee experience. The crown also signifies the company's position as a leader in the specialty coffee industry, with over 30,000 stores worldwide.
The two-tailed siren's crown is an acknowledgement of the brand's achievements and a promise to consistently deliver excellence in every cup of coffee it serves.
The Starbucks logo, with its two-tailed siren, embodies the brand's captivating allure and rich storytelling. As you enjoy your next coffee, remember the enchanting tale behind the logo and the symbolism it carries. By embracing its history and evolving with the times, Starbucks has created an iconic image that resonates with customers across the globe.