What makes a brand iconic

The podcast explores how products become iconic, focusing on the concept of "legibility" as more critical than mere attention. It distinguishes between intentionally designed iconic products, like Apple's iMac G3, and those achieving legibility through subcultural adoption, such as Nike's Air Force 1. The discussion covers how bootlegging and remixing contribute to a product's cultural value and iconic status, citing examples from streetwear, hip-hop, and luxury fashion. The hosts also examine how brands should manage associations with undesired subcultures, referencing Fred Perry and Marvel Comics. Ultimately, the podcast emphasizes designing products with lasting qualities, considering resale value, and embedding cultural meaning to increase the likelihood of achieving iconic status.