The Design of Flags

"What I love about flags is that, once you understand the design of flags... You can understand the design of almost anything."
Roman Mars, host of 99% Invisible. From the TED talk "The Worst-Designed Thing You've Never Noticed."

He's talking about flags — and how understanding their design helps you see design everywhere.

Understanding design opens up a new way of seeing the world. Let's start with the principles of good flag design.

What makes a well-designed flag?

According to NAVA, there are 5 design principles that all great flags follow.

NAVA: The North American Vexillological Association. Vexillology is the study of flags.

The 5 Principles

  1. Keep it Simple.
  2. Use meaningful symbolism.
  3. Use 2-3 basic colours.
  4. No lettering or seals.
  5. Be distinctive or be related.