Want to create a tagline that makes people stop scrolling, take notice, and remember your brand forever? Well, you’re in the right place. Taglines aren’t just catchy phrases—they’re the soul of your brand identity. A well-crafted tagline can live rent-free in your audience’s head for years. Let’s dive deep into what makes a tagline unforgettable—and look at 15 real-world examples that prove the power of the right words.
Why Taglines Are a Game-Changer for Brands
What Exactly Is a Tagline?
A tagline is a short phrase that captures the heart of your brand. Think of it as your brand’s elevator pitch—only faster. Whether it’s Nike’s “Just Do It” or Apple’s “Think Different,” a great tagline tells the world what you’re about in just a few words.
How the Right Tagline Creates Instant Connection
A good tagline doesn’t just describe—it connects. It creates an emotional response. It gives your audience a feeling or an identity. Taglines become mantras people associate with a lifestyle or mindset.
The Psychology Behind Memorable Taglines
We remember what makes us feel. That’s where creative taglines come in. They’re sticky, repeatable, and often have a rhythm or clever twist that makes them hard to forget. They often reflect creative branding, strategic tone, and even habitual buying triggers.
Learn more about building a memorable brand voice at Creative Branding.
The Anatomy of a Killer Tagline
Short and Sweet Wins the Race
In most cases, the best taglines are under 7 words. Brevity is clarity. And clarity sells.
Emotional Hooks That Stick
Taglines like “Because You’re Worth It” don’t just market a product—they affirm your identity. That emotional hook matters more than clever wordplay.
Branding Meets Simplicity
The most iconic taglines often seem effortless. But that simplicity is crafted through creative strategy and deep understanding of the customer.
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15 Creative Taglines That Hook Customers Instantly
Let’s break down some real-life taglines that nailed it.
1. “Think Different” – Apple
This one flipped the script. Instead of promising a product, it promised a philosophy. It attracted creatives, dreamers, and rebels—Apple’s ideal tribe.
2. “Just Do It” – Nike
Motivational. Bold. Action-packed. This tagline moves people. And that’s exactly what Nike wants.
3. “Because You’re Worth It” – L’Oréal
A personal, affirming message that makes buying beauty products feel empowering. Emotional marketing at its finest.
4. “Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hands” – M&M’s
Sensory, playful, and problem-solving. It reassures you, “Hey, this candy is clean and fun!”
5. “What’s in Your Wallet?” – Capital One
This tagline poses a question, making you reflect—and subtly nudging you to reconsider your bank.
6. “The Ultimate Driving Machine” – BMW
Luxury meets precision. It tells you this car isn’t just transportation—it’s an experience.
7. “Have It Your Way” – Burger King
Before customization was cool, BK made it their mission. This line gave power to the customer.
8. “Open Happiness” – Coca-Cola
An emotional branding move that connects the product to joy. It’s not soda. It’s happiness in a can.
9. “Can You Hear Me Now?” – Verizon
Turned a tech problem into a cultural catchphrase. It worked because it came from real-life frustration.
10. “Finger Lickin’ Good” – KFC
Visual, physical, and tasty. This tagline literally makes your taste buds wake up.
11. “Think Outside the Bun” – Taco Bell
A playful nudge at traditional fast food, this tagline created curiosity and positioned Taco Bell as the rebel.
12. “Save Money. Live Better.” – Walmart
Two promises in four words. It hits practical and emotional triggers—just what value-driven customers want.
13. “The Quicker Picker Upper” – Bounty
It rhymes. It’s fun to say. And it speaks directly to performance. Perfect tagline formula.
14. “Ideas for Life” – Panasonic
Universal and future-forward. It reflects innovation without locking itself into any one category.
15. “Impossible Is Nothing” – Adidas
This line inspires action and belief. It challenges the limits—and aligns with athletes’ mindsets.
Crafting Your Own Tagline That Hooks
Know Your Audience
If you don’t know who you’re talking to, you’re just shouting into the void. Get clear on your ideal customer before writing a single word.
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Tie It to Your Brand Promise
Your tagline should back up what you actually do. Make sure there’s alignment with your creative marketing message.
Inject Personality
Humor, sass, confidence—your tagline is your tone boiled down into one line. Don’t be afraid to stand out.
Test and Iterate
Try a few versions. Run polls. A/B test on landing pages. Collect feedback before locking one in.
Want to build a brand that resonates? Start with Creative Lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
A strong tagline is more than just a witty phrase—it’s a magnet for your brand. It pulls in the right people and sticks in their minds. Whether you’re building a new brand or refreshing an old one, crafting a creative tagline is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Start by understanding your brand’s soul. Then speak directly to your people—with simplicity, clarity, and a touch of flair.
Explore more tips and insights on branding, creative growth, and marketing over at andrewcasademunt.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a tagline effective?
An effective tagline is short, memorable, emotionally resonant, and clearly tied to your brand’s identity and message.
How long should a tagline be?
Ideally under 7 words. Less is more when it comes to impact.
Do all businesses need a tagline?
Not always, but having one helps build brand identity and improves recall—especially in competitive markets.
Can a tagline change over time?
Absolutely. As your brand evolves, so can your tagline. Just make sure any change reflects your core values.
How do I test if my tagline works?
Run A/B tests on ads or landing pages. Get audience feedback. Check memorability through surveys.
What’s the difference between a slogan and a tagline?
A tagline captures brand essence. A slogan is often campaign-specific. Taglines are long-term; slogans are more temporary.
Where should I use my tagline?
Everywhere: your website, logo, ads, email signature, packaging—even in your web design layout.