The WordPress logo promises convenience and a full range of tools for creating a functional and beautiful website. At the same time, the system itself remains in the shadows, while prominent positions are given to writers and the press who use the service to communicate with the world.
WordPress traces back to 2001 with b2/cafelog, a PHP and MySQL blogging platform created by Michel Valdrighi, inspired by Blogger. By 2003, it had about 2,000 users, but development stopped in late 2002, leaving bugs unresolved and the community without support.
On January 24, 2003, Matt Mullenweg published a call to fork the project. Mike Little joined, and they rebuilt the codebase, improved the admin panel, and added support for XHTML templates. On May 27, 2003, WordPress version 0.70 was released.
In May 2004, version 1.2 introduced a plugin system that allowed external developers to extend functionality. In February 2005, version 1.5 added themes, with the Kubrick template becoming the default standard for several years. In December 2005, version 2.0 redesigned the interface and added tools like Akismet.
In August 2005, Mullenweg founded Automattic. In 2006, the WordPress trademark was registered, and WordPress.com launched as a hosted service. At the same time, Movable Type by Six Apart switched to a paid model, prompting users to migrate to WordPress.
In 2010, the WordPress Foundation was established to manage trademarks. In 2011, WooThemes released WooCommerce, which Automattic later acquired in 2015, expanding into e-commerce.
In December 2018, version 5.0 introduced the Gutenberg editor, replacing the traditional editing system. In 2019, Automattic acquired Tumblr from Verizon. In October 2024, WP Engine filed a lawsuit against Automattic, raising disputes over control and licensing within the ecosystem.
Meaning and History
The platform has a unique logo that sets it apart from the competition. It is copyrighted, like the brand itself, even though it is an open-source WordPress site. This means that the company sets rules for the use of its trademarks and does not allow them to be changed arbitrarily. At the moment, her emblem consists of a text label and a large “W” in a circle.
What is WordPress?
This is one of the most popular content services, originally a system for publishing blogs. It was launched in the spring of 2003 and has gradually acquired new features. Its developers are American Matt Mullenweg and Englishman Mike Little.
2003 – 2008
The system was launched on May 27, 2003. On that day, users were able to evaluate not only its functionality but also the original logo. On the left was a stylized “W” in a black circle with a white halo and dark border. The space on the left was occupied by the word “WordPress underlined with a horizontal line. Moreover, the first part of the name was blue, and the second was black.
2008 – today
The designers kept the text’s color separation but removed the underline to make the logo look cleaner and more concise. The new version has a changed palette: the blue has become much lighter, and the black has become gray. The fonts, shapes, proportions, and position of the letters remain the same as before. This shows the WordPress platform’s consistency, its commitment to stability, and its preservation of individual style.
Font and Colors
The company has strict requirements for what its symbol should look like because many site owners are using the wrong version of the “W.” Ideally, this letter is extended upward, and its right line ends with a large teardrop-shaped protrusion. The erroneous version contains a shortened, reduced “W” that differs from the original.
The double black-and-white ring makes the image three-dimensional. The protruding edges of the letter merge with the lighter area of the frame. The circle looks like a seal only in its general outline; it is a distinct mark you can easily recognize as the WordPress system. It has not changed since its inception, except for a small experiment with a palette.
When creating a round emblem featuring a white “W,” the designers developed a custom typeface based on Mrs. Eaves Small Caps. They stretched the symbol, reshaped the top of the right stroke, and gave it a teardrop shape.
The original Mrs. Eaves Small Caps is used for the word “WordPress.” This typeface has a long history: it was based on another typeface developed in 1757 by the typographer John Baskerville. Its purpose is to show an expressive contrast between wide and thin lines.
The palette also contrasts: the first half of the name is colored in CG Blue (#00749C), and the second half in Rifle Green (#444140). These shades are not very bright but stand out well against a white background.
FAQ
What is the WordPress icon font?
The official icon font used in WordPress is Dashicons. Introduced in WordPress version 3.8, Dashicons is mainly used in the WordPress admin area.
Dashicons offers a wide range of simple, clear icons that enhance the visual experience and usability of the WordPress dashboard. These icons make it easy for users to navigate and interact with the various features and tools.
By using Dashicons, the brand creates a consistent and professional user interface. This attention to design and usability shows the brand’s commitment to providing a user-friendly experience.
Dashicons include icons for media, formatting, posts, and user interactions. This set of icons helps developers and designers enhance their themes and plugins, leading to a more polished and intuitive experience.
Does WordPress do logos?
WordPress.com and Fiverr have teamed up to offer logo design services. This makes it easier for users to create professional logos at an affordable price. You can access a wide range of design options and work with experienced designers to create a logo that fits your brand’s identity.
This partnership allows you to make all the customizations and changes needed to ensure your logo meets your vision. Fiverr connects you with freelance designers who provide tailored design solutions, whether you need a simple logo or something complex.
This service is useful for small businesses, bloggers, and startups wanting to establish a strong brand presence without spending much money. It can achieve a professional look that enhances your brand’s visibility and appeal.
The process is simple. Start by selecting a designer based on their portfolio and reviews. Then, provide your requirements and preferences. The designer will create a logo based on your input, and you can request revisions until you are satisfied with the final design.
What is a WordPress logo?
The logo represents the brand’s identity. It features the company’s name in a serif typeface, giving it a classic and professional look. The logo includes a round icon with a stylized “W” and a teardrop element on the right.
This round icon with the “W” is used on its own as a recognizable symbol. This design makes the logo versatile and easy to identify on websites, social media, and printed materials.
Combining the serif typeface and the round icon creates a cohesive logo. This design reflects the brand’s commitment to providing a reliable platform for users. The elegance of the serif font and the unique icon highlight the brand’s focus on quality and sophistication.
How do I change the logo on my WordPress dashboard?
To change the logo on your WordPress dashboard, follow these steps:
- Install and activate the White Label CMS plugin: Log in to your WordPress admin area. Go to the “Plugins” section on the left-hand menu and click “Add New.” Search for “White Label CMS.” Click “Install Now,” then “Activate.”
- Access the plugin settings: After activation, go to the “Settings” section in the left-hand menu and click “White Label CMS.”
- Go to the Branding tab: Click on the “Branding” tab to customize the dashboard appearance.
- Hide the WordPress logo: Click “Yes” to hide the default WordPress logo. This step ensures your new logo will be displayed.
- Upload your logo: Click “Choose File” or “Select Image” to upload your custom logo from your computer.
- Save your changes: Scroll down and click “Save Changes” to apply the new logo to your WordPress dashboard.
Can I use the WordPress logo on my website?
You cannot use the logo on your website because the brand guidelines do not allow it. You can use icons labeled “Powered by WordPress.org.” These icons indicate that your site runs on WordPress and adheres to the brand’s rules.
The “Powered by WordPress.org” icons let you acknowledge the platform without breaking the guidelines. Following these rules helps avoid legal issues and respects the brand’s rights.
Find the approved icons on the WordPress.org website to show that your site uses the platform. These icons come in different styles and sizes, making it easy to incorporate them into your site design. Always follow the official usage guidelines to stay in good standing with the brand.
How do I add my logo to WordPress?
To add your logo to WordPress, follow these steps:
- Go to Appearance: In your WordPress admin dashboard, click “Appearance” in the left-hand menu. Then select “Customize.”
- Access Site Identity: In the Customizer panel, click “Site Identity.” You can set your site’s title, tagline, and logo here.
- Select your logo: Click the “Select logo” button to open the media library.
- Upload your logo: If it is in the media library, click on it. If not, click “Upload Files” and then “Select Files” to upload the logo from your computer. Select the uploaded image.
- Set the logo: After selecting your logo, click “Set as logo” to place the image in the logo spot.
- Save your changes: In the Customizer, preview your site with the new logo. If it looks good, click the “Publish” button to save your changes.




