In an attempt to keep it simple while revamping the brand in a new way, Western Michigan University has unveiled a new primary logo with an updated color scheme.
For the past few years, Western Michigan was known by a “W” as one logo and a bronco head as the other. Now, the university will be seen by a different look on both ends.
Sports Logo History Western Michigan Broncos Primary Logo 2021 - Present
Let’s start with the "W" logo. WMU was exemplified as a gold "W" with a simple, brown outline with the university’s script right below. Now, the gold "W" is surrounded by a brown circle with a gold outline. Instead of creating a complex look to change it up, it has simply been updated to fit the new times and not cause any confusion.
With that logo, the script moved from under the letter "W" to next to it. The font also got much bigger and changed to a more inviting look. Instead of having to squint to read “Western Michigan University” it is now easier than ever. Although the script is usually not considered part of the main logo, it is a slight change that is absolutely worth noting.
They could have gone away with the simple "W," but it is so ingrained into its identity that it was going nowhere.
“Our ‘W’ logo has been part of our heritage for nearly all of Western’s history,” Tony Proudfoot, vice president for marketing and strategic commutations said in a release. “Moving forward, we will transition to the new marks as cost-effectively as possible. While its basic shape has remained consistent, it has evolved with the times.”
The biggest changes come with the Bronco logo that is also being changed. With this, comes the dropping of a number of logo colors. Before, there were seven colors on the official color pallet. Now, there are just two, brown and gold.
Western Michigan Broncos Primary Logo 2016 - 2020
This is probably the biggest move toward simplicity. The older color scheme comes with the likes of white, light brown, black, silver, and a different shade of gold. Cutting from seven colors to just two is a big change and is an important part of this entire new effort. This makes it even more clear that WMU is focusing on simplicity.
The Bronco of the ghost variety that was seen a few years ago will continue but instead of taking on the white and black colorway, they are using the simplified brown and gold. This keeps it simple while still giving that running bronco a bit of spotlight.
The new "W" logo has already been seen on a soccer jersey during a summer league game and on banners scattered across the campus. Once the fall semester kicks into full swing, those logos will be far more prominent as they will take center stage. Also, merchandise harboring the new looks will be on sale soon for you and your loved ones to rock in the fall.
See the Western Michigan Broncos logo history.
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