You’ve seen the Starbucks logo thousands of times—on coffee cups, storefronts, and merchandise. But did you know there’s a secret detail hidden in plain sight that most people overlook?
That iconic green siren isn’t just a random mermaid. There’s a fascinating story behind her design, and once you see the hidden element, you’ll never look at the Starbucks logo the same way again.
Let’s dive into the little-known secret behind one of the world’s most recognizable brands!
The Starbucks Logo: More Than Just a Mermaid
At first glance, the Starbucks logo appears to be a simple twin-tailed siren (a mythical mermaid-like creature) inside a green circle. But look closer…
The Original 1971 Logo Was Much More Revealing
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The first Starbucks logo featured a fully illustrated, topless siren with two tails spread wide.
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Her long hair covered her chest, but the design was far more detailed and nautical.
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Over time, the logo was simplified, but the siren’s hidden feature remained.
The Secret? She’s Not Just a Siren—She’s a “Melusine”
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The Starbucks siren is inspired by a 16th-century Norse woodcut of a Melusine—a mythical two-tailed mermaid.
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In folklore, Melusines were seductive creatures who lured sailors, much like how Starbucks “lures” coffee lovers.
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The twin tails symbolize duality—land and sea, coffee’s bitter and sweet notes, or even the brand’s global reach.
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The Hidden Detail You’ve Probably Missed
Here’s the mind-blowing secret:
🔍 The Negative Space in the Logo Forms a Face!
If you look closely at the siren’s flowing hair and twin tails, you’ll notice that the white space between them subtly creates the outline of a human face—almost like a second, hidden siren staring back at you.
This clever use of negative space adds depth to the logo, making it more than just a mermaid. It’s a brilliant optical illusion that most people never notice!
Why Did Starbucks Choose a Siren?
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