For millions around the world, Starbucks has become more than just a coffee shop. It’s part of the daily routine—a place to grab a favorite drink, take a break, or simply enjoy a moment of comfort. But behind the familiar green logo that’s become a global symbol of coffee culture lies a subtle design choice that many customers have never noticed.
To understand this hidden detail, it helps to revisit the origins of the brand. When Starbucks first opened in 1971, its identity was rooted in nautical themes. The company’s name was inspired by Moby-Dick, and its founders chose a siren—a mythical sea figure—as the face of the brand. The siren symbolized both the call of the sea and the idea of something irresistibly inviting.
Over the years, Starbucks evolved its logo from a rustic brown emblem to the now-iconic green design. In 2011, the company made a bold move by removing its name entirely from the logo, allowing the siren to speak for the brand on her own. It was a confident step that reflected the logo’s growing recognition worldwide.
But look closely at the siren’s face and you’ll notice something surprising.
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