The Michigan Wolverines logo has evolved through a series of design changes since its inception in 1912. Its visual identity has remained relatively stable since 1964, with some minor adjustments over the years, but its yellow and blue color scheme, symbolizing energy, reliability, and professionalism, has been a constant thread.

The first logo, introduced in 1912, featured a blue and red composition on a white background. The solid blue wolverine, outlined in red, sat beneath an arched "Michigan" wordmark, set in a typewriter-style serif font. This design was traditional for its time, simple yet bold.

In 1948, the logo was updated to include a cartoonish wolverine’s face, wearing a hat with an "M" on it. The new design shifted to a blue and white palette, symbolizing loyalty and professionalism, and the red accents were eliminated. This version of the logo gave the mascot a more playful and approachable feel.

A more geometric and structured design emerged in 1964, with the letter "M" in yellow outlined in blue, paired with a blue and white wolverine facing left. This design emphasized balance and strength, reflecting the dynamic and progressive direction of the team.

The 1978 redesign saw the wolverine placed above the "M," facing right, with a horizontal yellow banner crossing the middle of the "M" containing the word "Michigan." This version brightened the color palette and reinforced the sense of unity between the letter and the mascot.

By 1988, the wolverine was removed from the logo entirely, and the design focused on the "M" once more. The color scheme reverted to darker, stronger blues, with a yellow outline around the letter. The banner was now rectangular, featuring the word "Michigan" in a bold, modern sans-serif font. This change marked a return to a more straightforward and mature design.

In 1996, the logo saw further refinement, with the yellow banner outlined in blue and a lighter blue shade for the "M." The lettering inside the banner was updated to a more modern, extended sans-serif typeface, giving the logo a well-balanced and contemporary look.

The most recent change came in 2012, when the Michigan Wolverines embraced a minimalist approach. The banner with the wordmark was removed entirely, leaving just the letter "M" in yellow with a thin blue outline. The bold, clean lines and large square serifs of the "M" symbolize stability, confidence, courage, and professionalism, reflecting the team's legacy and values.

The current design is a clean, timeless emblem that captures the essence of the Michigan Wolverines: strong, focused, and determined to succeed. The color palette consists of two main colors—blue (PMS 282 C) and maize (PMS 7406 C)—which are deeply associated with the university and its athletic teams.