What’s your brand’s true essence?
Posted: Sun Feb 02, 2025 10:42 am
Speculative theories:
The dream theory. There is a lesser-known, more speculative story that one of the employees dreamed about the Greek goddess Nike, which inspired the name. While this makes for an intriguing brand story, no concrete evidence supports this claim.
The last-minute decision. Some accounts suggest that ‘Nike’ was not the first choice and was decided upon in a last-minute meeting. Based on first-hand accounts, it’s true that the decision was made under time pressure. However, the idea that ‘Nike’ was a backup or a hasty decision is more speculative and not fully supported by the company’s official history.
Influence of the ‘Swoosh’ Logo. Another theory links the naming of Nike to the design israel rcs data of the Swoosh logo. Some speculate that the dynamic nature of the logo might have influenced the choice of a name that signifies movement and victory. However, this connection, while plausible, remains speculative.
brand archetype illustration of the magician
Discover your brand's unique character in just 3 minutes & unveil 15 key insights to make your brand stronger.
Start the free quiz now!
How did Nike develop its original brand identity?
The Nike Swoosh was designed in 1971 by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student at Portland State University. Knight, then an assistant professor at PSU, wanted a logo that conveyed motion and agreed on Davidson’s design, paying her just $35 for her work.
The dream theory. There is a lesser-known, more speculative story that one of the employees dreamed about the Greek goddess Nike, which inspired the name. While this makes for an intriguing brand story, no concrete evidence supports this claim.
The last-minute decision. Some accounts suggest that ‘Nike’ was not the first choice and was decided upon in a last-minute meeting. Based on first-hand accounts, it’s true that the decision was made under time pressure. However, the idea that ‘Nike’ was a backup or a hasty decision is more speculative and not fully supported by the company’s official history.
Influence of the ‘Swoosh’ Logo. Another theory links the naming of Nike to the design israel rcs data of the Swoosh logo. Some speculate that the dynamic nature of the logo might have influenced the choice of a name that signifies movement and victory. However, this connection, while plausible, remains speculative.
brand archetype illustration of the magician
Discover your brand's unique character in just 3 minutes & unveil 15 key insights to make your brand stronger.
Start the free quiz now!
How did Nike develop its original brand identity?
The Nike Swoosh was designed in 1971 by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student at Portland State University. Knight, then an assistant professor at PSU, wanted a logo that conveyed motion and agreed on Davidson’s design, paying her just $35 for her work.