Best Branding & Logo Design Books of 2026

Logo Modernism by Taschen is a comprehensive catalog of approximately 6,000 trademarks from the 1940s to 1980s, showcasing how modernist attitudes gave birth to corporate identity. Organized into three design-oriented chapters, the book includes case studies and designer profiles, providing an unrivaled resource for graphic designers, advertisers, and branding specialists. The book is equally fascinating for anyone interested in social, cultural, and corporate history, and in the persuasive power of image and form. This fantastic collection of logos is a testament to the enduring power of clean, universally symbolic design language.

Made by James is an excellent guide for graphic designers who want to improve their logo design skills and creative process. British graphic designer James Martin shares his unique hands-on approach to logo design, from concept to final design. With annotated case studies, James also discusses the importance of client relationships, personal and career growth, and effective work habits. This book is a winner of the 2021 American Graphic Design Award for Book Design from Graphic Design USA. Overall, Made by James is a valuable resource for designers of all levels, providing insights rarely discussed in the industry.

Fabric of the Game is a must-read for any NHL fan. Written by branding and design experts Chris Creamer and Todd Radom, this book offers an in-depth look at how each NHL team got its name, logo, and uniform. The authors interview those responsible for the team's branding and design decisions, providing a fascinating insight into the history of the league. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the stories behind your favorite team, this book is a great read. Overall, Fabric of the Game is a unique and insightful look at the NHL's branding and design, and a must-have for any hockey fan's library.

Principles of Logo Design is a comprehensive guide to creating simple yet powerful logos that leave a lasting impression on the viewer's mind. The author, George Bokhua, shares his process for designing logotypes that stand the test of time by using classic principles of grid systems and form and design. The book covers everything from applying a strong design aesthetic to logo creation to fine-tuning techniques for visual integrity. Logo designers at all levels of skill and experience can benefit from this book, which teaches how to create logos that are not only visually pleasing but also evoke a sense of perfection.

Complex Presents: Sneaker of the Year: The Best Since '85 takes readers on a colorful journey through 35 years of sneaker culture. With contributions from some of the most important voices in the industry and stunning illustrations, this book is a must-have for sneakerheads and hypebeasts alike. From the Air Jordan 1 to the Nike React Element 87, the book highlights some of the most iconic sneakers of all time. The book also touches on the impact that athletes like Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson had on the industry, and how they became icons themselves. Overall, this book is a captivating and nostalgic tribute to the sneaker culture phenomenon that has taken the world by storm.

Logos That Last is a comprehensive guide for designers and brand strategists of any level who want to create iconic visual branding that stands the test of time. Allan Peters, an award-winning graphic designer, shares his unique creative process, which he has developed over a 20-year career. The book includes detailed case studies, tips for building great client relationships, and strategies for extending a great logo into a dynamic brand system. Peters’ hands-on, step-by-step process inspires designers to create inventive, thoughtful, and enduring logos. Overall, this book is an essential resource for anyone looking to create lasting visual branding.

The "Designing Brand Identity" book is an all-encompassing resource for branding success. It covers everything from research to design execution, launch, and governance, making it an essential reference for anyone involved in building a brand system. The book includes over 100 branding subjects, checklists, tools, and diagrams, as well as 50 case studies describing goals, processes, strategies, solutions, and results. With more than 400 quotes from branding experts, CEOs, and design gurus, this book is a comprehensive, pragmatic, and easy-to-understand resource for all brand builders, both global and local. Overall, it is an excellent guide for all branding teams and a must-read for anyone interested in branding and design.

Graphic Design Fundamentals: An Introduction & Workbook for Beginners is a concise and easy-to-follow guide for anyone who wants to learn the basics of graphic design. This book covers the essential principles and ideas, from colors to layouts to fonts, and includes illustrations for everything. The bonus workbook included in the back is an excellent resource for practicing what you've learned. The author, Kris Taft Miller, is a seasoned graphic designer with over 20 years of experience in the industry, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in branding and logo design.

If you're looking for inspiration from a successful graphic designer who combines design, social media, entrepreneurship, and a DIY aesthetic, then "Draplin Design Co.: Pretty Much Everything" is the book for you. Aaron James Draplin's mid-career survey of work, case studies, inspiration, road stories, lists, maps, how-tos, and advice is a complete package that includes examples of his work, posters, record covers, logos, and presents the process behind his design with projects like Field Notes and the “Things We Love” State Posters. With humor and pointed observations on the contemporary design scene, this book is a must-read for the new generation of designers.

The book "Heated Words: Searching for a Mysterious Typeface" explores the history of a unique blackletter typeface that has been passed down anonymously across subcultures for decades. The typeface has decorated the fabric of influential music and fashion subcultures since the 1970s in New York City. The book features unpublished archival images, insights from voices in music, fashion, and typography, and explores the resurgence of analog typography. The layout and design of the book echo the frenetic history of the letters themselves. Overall, this is an excellent book for those interested in fashion history and typography, and it stands out for its unique subject matter and design.