Retro Branding (Final Major Project)

  • Ben Smitheman

Taking inspiration from John Knowles Richie's retro rebrand of Burger King, I explored how other big brands could stay in touch with their heritage through using elements of their previous branding.

1950's: McDonald's
In the 1950's McDonald's franchised, becoming a nationally recognisable brand in the US.
Keeping the iconic golden arches I introduced elements of their original branding such as the 'World-Wide' banner and their McDonald's type logo.
1970's: Carharrt
In the 70s Carharrt was responsible for outfitting the workers on the oil pipeline in Alaska, proving that they are one of the most trusted workwear brands. Today the brand is more well known for their streetwear,
which has made them a more expensive brand less accessible to the labourers that previously
utilised their clothing.
Through my retro branding I wanted to show how the brand can reconnect with their roots in work-wear,
focusing on how their brand has gained a foothold in pop culture through it's long-lasting workwear
as well as streetwear.