In 1964, Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman founded Blue Ribbon Sports, which later became Nike in 1971. The journey of an iconic sports brand had begun.
Image source: University of Oregon, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
As Nike rebranded, the company sought a logo that embodied motion and athleticism, leading them to a young graphic design student.
Image source: Carolyn Davidson, Nike, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Carolyn Davidson, a Portland State University student, created the legendary Swoosh for just $35, unknowingly designing a timeless icon.
The Swoosh was inspired by the wings of the Greek goddess Nike, symbolizing speed, movement, and victory.
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Nike co-founder Phil Knight wasn’t initially sold on the Swoosh but decided to move forward with it, hoping it would grow on him.
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Nike quickly gained traction in the sports industry, securing athlete endorsements and solidifying its reputation as a top athletic brand.
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Over the years, the Nike logo saw subtle changes, from a cursive font in 1971 to the bold, standalone Swoosh we recognize today.
In 1988, Nike launched its famous ‘Just Do It’ campaign, pairing it with the Swoosh to create a legendary brand identity.
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Today, Nike is a powerhouse with over 44,000 employees and billions in revenue, proving that the Swoosh is more than just a logo.
Image source: Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
In 1983, Nike rewarded Carolyn with stocks and a gold ring featuring the Swoosh, acknowledging her contribution to the brand’s success.
The Swoosh remains one of the most recognizable logos in the world, proving that simple, bold design can create lasting impact.
Image source: Carolyn Davidson, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
More than just a logo, the Swoosh represents perseverance, excellence, and the spirit of athleticism that continues to inspire generations.
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Image source: Carolyn Davidson, Nike, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons