8 Breakout Brands We Can Learn From This Year

A striking logo can make your brand unforgettable. However, it can be hard to identify just what about a brand’s image make it stand out and how you can emulate it yourself.

Wanting to know more, we asked eight industry experts what newer brands had achieved this feat, and why these brands were doing so well.

1) Uniqlo

The Uniqlo revolution has already been brewing stateside for quite some time, but this year it seemed to explode out of the gate. The hyper-modern Japanese clothing brand has managed to design a product, brand and retail experience that is simultaneously subtle and striking using stark minimalism. Its collaborations with key cultural players like MoMA and Pharrell have done even more to enhance its image.

– Brian Honigman, BrianHonigman.com

2) Searchmetrics

I've always been impressed by Searchmetrics and their brand. They always have slick packaging and stand out in their space far above their competitors. They researched what colors were working and what their customers wanted, and branded accordingly.

– Peter Daisyme, Hostt

3) Casamigos Tequila

Casamigos Tequila launched onto the scene in a big way. Their packaging does a really nice job of making the product look very handcrafted and high quality while also integrating a nice balance of modern design with a trusted classic bottle. They are one of the few brands in this decade that will give Patron a run for their money.

– Jake Kloberdanz, ONEHOPE Inc.

4) Harry’s

Harry's packaging, logo, and overall designs are really top-notch. They were particularly wise in balancing retro design cues with aspects of modern minimalism, giving them a distinct look that won’t become dated once the 'hipster' trend passes. Finally, they deserve applause for staying responsive by way of special-edition, seasonal designs.

– Sam Saxton, Salter Spiral Stair and Mylen Stairs

5) Christian Louboutin Nail Polish

I’ve seen so many brands extend into new categories with a cookie cutter and label-slapped approach. The new Louboutin nail polish embodies the brand, stands out in the cluttered cosmetics space, and shows how clever and brilliant packaging can be.

– Ashley Mady, Brandberry

6) Yoobi

Ido Leffler, founder of the popular beauty brand Yes To, recently launched a new line of school supplies exclusively with Target. Yoobi's brightly colored classroom items are beautifully designed and affordable. Plus, for every item that's purchased, some school supplies are donated to a school in need. Yoobi is a fun and fresh makeover to the school supplies aisle!

– Doreen Bloch, Poshly Inc.

7) SkinnyPop Popcorn

The packing SkinnyPop Popcorn used as it rolled out new flavors was pitch perfect. It combined simplicity and bold colors to stand out in the crowded snack food industry. More importantly, its clean design reinforced the brand’s message and value of the product -- it’s delicious and contains 'no artificial anything.'

– Anthony Nicalo, Dónde

8) SunFeel

SunFeel is a horticultural natural foods company. Its branding is striking, and surely stands out from the competition. Each label features the product's vegetable with bright colors and wearing sunglasses. It's eye-catching and very creative.

– Andrew Schrage, Money Crashers Personal Finance

These answers were provided by members of Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. In partnership with Citi, YEC recently launched StartupCollective, a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses.