In the world of branding, there are rules—unwritten standards that most businesses follow to look professional and reliable. But what if following the crowd is actually what’s holding your brand back? Bold design choices, those that break away from the norm, can elevate your brand and help it stand out in a crowded marketplace. In fact, challenging design conventions might just be the key to attracting the clients who truly resonate with your brand.

Here’s why thinking outside the box and embracing creativity in your branding process could be one of the best decisions you make for your business.

When Breaking the Rules Makes Sense

While it’s important to have a solid foundation of branding principles (clarity, consistency, etc.), there are moments when breaking the rules can set you apart. These are the times when standing out—rather than blending in—makes a bigger impact.

Why Challenge the Norms?

• To Differentiate Yourself: If your industry is flooded with similar looks and messaging, bold design choices allow your brand to stand out and be memorable.
• To Speak Directly to Your Ideal Clients: Creative branding can help you connect with an audience that shares your values and appreciates the unique qualities of your brand.
• To Reinforce Your Brand Personality: If you’re a bold, confident, and innovative brand, your design should reflect that. Playing it safe might make your brand seem generic or uninspiring.
• To Spark Curiosity: Unconventional design grabs attention and generates curiosity. It invites people to look closer, explore your brand, and engage with your message.

Examples of Bold, Unconventional Branding That Works

Don’t just take our word for it—there are plenty of successful brands that have embraced bold, unconventional design choices and thrived because of it.

1. Olipop Sodas

Olipop is a great example of a brand that’s embraced bold design choices and made them work. While many health and wellness drinks feature muted colors and clean, minimalistic designs, Olipop’s bright, vibrant, and playful packaging stands out on store shelves. Their bold use of colors, vintage-inspired typography, and retro illustrations immediately communicate that this is a product that’s fun, unique, and different from the traditional sodas on the market. Olipop’s unconventional branding works because it aligns with their core values of fun, wellness, and innovation, helping them appeal to health-conscious yet adventurous consumers looking for an alternative to sugary sodas.

2. Apple

While Apple’s sleek minimalism might not seem “breaking the rules” at first, it was a bold departure from the cluttered, overly designed technology products of the past. The simplicity of the design spoke volumes, reinforcing the brand’s message of innovation and ease of use. Apple’s design choices have been integral to its identity, helping it become synonymous with modernity and sophistication.

3. Glossier

Glossier’s simple, clean, and minimalist design breaks the beauty industry’s norms, which often rely on heavy, ornate visuals. By using pastel colors, simple typography, and clear packaging, they’ve created a relatable, approachable brand that appeals to their target audience of millennial and Gen Z women. Glossier’s bold design choices create a sense of authenticity that resonates deeply with their customer base.

How to Break the Rules Without Going Too Far

While embracing bold design choices can be a powerful strategy, it’s important not to go too far. It’s all about finding the right balance between creativity and functionality. Here’s how to break the rules in a way that works:

• Know Your Brand Inside and Out: Before you start experimenting with design, be crystal clear on what your brand stands for. Your bold choices should align with your mission, values, and target audience.
• Stay Consistent: Even when challenging norms, consistency is key. Your bold design should still feel cohesive and aligned with your overall branding strategy.
• Test and Get Feedback: Breaking the rules can be risky, but feedback from your audience can help guide your decisions. Test different design elements and see how they resonate with your ideal clients.
• Make It Meaningful: Bold choices should be intentional and not just for the sake of being different. Make sure your design choices reflect your brand’s personality, story, or values.

Encouraging Creativity in Your Branding Process

Don’t be afraid to embrace your creativity and make bold design choices for your brand. Here are a few tips to encourage more creativity in your branding process:

1. Start with Inspiration: Look at brands outside your industry for fresh ideas. Get inspired by art, fashion, architecture, and even nature.
2. Collaborate: If you’re not sure where to start, work with a designer who can help you explore bold ideas and challenge traditional norms.
3. Take Risks: Experiment with colors, typography, and visual elements that feel a little “out there.” You might be surprised at how well they work.
4. Embrace Imperfection: Sometimes, the most powerful designs are the ones that feel human and imperfect. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and adjust as you go.

The Impact of Bold Branding

When done right, bold design choices can help you create a memorable, standout brand that not only attracts your ideal clients but also sets the tone for your business’s growth and success.

By pushing the boundaries of design, you’re showing your audience that you’re not afraid to be different—and that’s exactly what will make your brand unforgettable.

Ready to Break the Mold?

If you’re ready to embrace bold design choices and set your brand apart from the competition, let’s work together to create a brand identity that is as unique and powerful as your vision.