Top 5 Logo Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Make Sure Yours Actually Works)

Whether you're DIY-ing your first logo or you've already got one that doesn't feel quite right, this post is for you. As a brand designer who has seen it is, I'm breaking down the top 5 logo mistakes small business owners make and how to avoid them like a pro.

1. Too Much Going On

   "Your Logo isn't a storybook, it's a signature."

An example of a logo with way too much going on. (Made by me for a fake makeup artist so no shade to anybody!)

It might be tempting to add a bunch of "razzle dazzle" to your logo, but overly detailed logos quickly lose impact, especially at small sizes. Tiny icons, shading, or complex shapes can turn into a blurry mess on your IG profile or business card.

The Fix:

Keep it clean and scalable. A simple, strong logo will always outlast one that's trying too hard.

Here's my fix for this logo.

2. No Alternate Versions

   "One size does not fit all when it comes to logos."

Only having one version of your logo (usually horizontal) limits where and how you can use it. What looks good on your website header might get chopped in an Instagram profile pic or look awkward on packaging.

The Fix:

Create a logo system that includes a stacked version, submark and/or maybe a simple icon. Your brand will stay consistent across all platforms and you won't have to worry about your customers giving you the side eye 👀.

Here's an example of a logo suite that's adaptable.

3. Poor Color Contrast

   "If people have to squint to read your logo...we've got a problem."

Low contrast between your logo elements (like pale pink on white or grey on beige) makes your design hard to read, especially for folks with visual impairments.

The Fix:

Make sure your logo passes a contrast test (Here's a free one you can use). Try it on both dark and light backgrounds. Accessibility matters and, legibility is non negotiable.

Speaking of legibility...

4. Illegible Fonts

   "Script fonts are cute until nobody can read them."

You might love that elegant cursive font (I mean, I use one too...but sparingly), but if it's hard to read, your message gets lost. Your logo has to communicate at a glance, not leave people guessing.

The Fix:

Choose fonts that are stylish and readable. You can always bring personality into your graphics, but your main logo needs to be clear every time.

5. Using Glitter, Gifs, or Moving Elements

   "Unless you're designing for the Disney Channel in 2004, your logo doesn't need to sparkle or shimmy."

Glitter, bling effects, and animated gifs might seem fun, but they're not practical for most platforms. They also risk making your brand look dated or amateurish and I hate that for you!

The Fix:

Keep the glitz in your marketing, not your logo. Aim for timeless, not trendy.

Here's a bonus tip because I love ya'll and I'm not gatekeeping anything...

Bonus Mistake: Being TOO Literal

"You don't have to show scissors in your logo to prove you do hair."

Logos that spell out exactly what you do (like a cupcake for a bakery or a camera for a photographer) can feel generic and forgettable. Instead, think about the vibe you want people to remember.

The Fix:

Focus on brand personality not just your product or service. You want people to remember you, not just recognize what you do.

How to Test If Your Logo Actually Works

So you've got a logo...but does it really hold up in the real world?

Here are 4 quick tests you can try today:

✅ 1. The Black & White Test

Convert your logo to grayscale or black and white. Does it still look clear and readable?

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✅ 3. The Balance Test

Visually divide your logo in half. Does it look like one side is "heavier" than the other? Is one side or section drawing more attention?

✅ 2. The Scale Test

Shrink your logo down to 1 inch or 100px wide. Can you still tell what it is?

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✅ 4. The Context Test

Place your logo on mockups like a website, business card, or packaging. Does it feel cohesive and strong in real-life settings?

Ready to Make Your Brand Logo Work For You?

If your logo isn’t pulling its weight or you’re not sure where to start, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Reach out and let’s talk about how we can give your brand the glow-up it deserves.

Book A Free Discovery Call