Designs of Iconic Flags

Vexillology is the study of the design, history, and purpose of flags. Although many flags seem very simple in design, there are several key principles recognizable flags follow, such that flags with simple designs may be more recognizable than flags with more complex designs. Flags should also not have specific symbolism that will lose meaning as time goes on. In addition, color choices are also crucial in vexillography, as flags should not have too many colors, but the colors should have enough contrast for the designs to be clear, and the color themselves should hold symbolism too.

Two well-designed and iconic flags I will mention are the Pride flag and the True South flag. Each color of the Pride flag symbolize an important concept (life, healing, sunlight, nature, harmony, spirit). The simple rainbow design and contrasting colors make it very recognizable. The blue and white strip and triangles used on the True South flag create good contrast and make up a simple design. They also carry symbolism as the two triangles represent a compass with the white arrow also symbolizing the white snowy terrain in Antarctica. The blue and white background also resembles the features of antarctica with it’s snowy lands and long, frigid nights.