What Are the Different Flag Shapes?

When you picture a flag, chances are you see the traditional rectangular shape. While common, there are many unique flags that tout exciting shapes, making them stand out from the rest. In this blog, we will discuss the diverse flag shapes around the world and explain how you can order your own uniquely shaped custom flag!

Flag Shapes

Flags come in many different shapes and sizes and are used to differentiate nations, states, armed service branches, and more. While the rectangular shape is most common, there are many other popular silhouettes. 

Standard Rectangular 

There are 195 nations and 54 US states and territories that fly a standard rectangular flag. A popular choice due to the ease of production, these flags also fly beautifully in the wind. In the USA, most rectangular flags, including the US flag, are in the proportions 2:3 or 3:5, while European countries like Great Britain and Russia are 1:2. 

Square Flag 

There are only two countries in the world that fly a square flag: Switzerland and Vatican City. Switzerland chose this flag shape since, at its induction, the country's military coats of arms were square. The Vatican City flag, also known as the Papal flag, dates back to 1831 when the papal infantry chose to fly the squared flag of white and yellow. Note that while the official flags for these countries are square, the ones Carrot-Top sells are rectangular due to limitations with manufacturing.  

Pennant Flag 

Pennant flags are triangular and are a popular choice for sports teams and universities. Since they are often used as party decor, it's easy to find many printable cut-out templates online. Often hung horizontally, they are a favored indoor and outdoor decor option and are used in businesses, schools, and more. Carrot-Top Industries proudly offers an impressive selection of pennant flags, including custom pennant flags to create a stunning flag display. 

Burgee Flag 

Burgee flags, also called swallowtails, resemble a pennant but with one distinct difference: splitting at its end to form two tips. Generally, burgee flags are common within the marine industry, flying aboard boats and yachts. Ohio is the only sovereign state flag in this unique shape, making it stand out prominently from the rest. When designing the Ohio flag in 1901, its creator, John Eisenmann, chose the distinctive style to symbolize different aspects of the state. The triangular formations mirror the valleys and hills highlighted on the State Seal, bringing the emblem to life. At Carrot-Top Industries, you can order your own custom burgee flag from our wide selection of American-made flags and accessories. 

Guidon Flags 

Guidon flags resemble the burgee but are used within the United States Armed Forces. This military standard accompanies a platoon, troop, battery, or company detachment, signifying their unit and branch affiliation. The guidon can also bear the title of the individual carrying it. The guidon not only represents the unit but also its commanding officer and is displayed during the day to indicate they are in service and taken down at night when the commander goes home. Guidons are a source of pride for each military unit, and disrespect toward them isn't tolerated. You can order custom guidon flags from Carrot-Top Industries.  

Double Triangle 

The rarest flag shape is the double-stacked triangle, used by only one country: Nepal. As the world's only non-quadrilateral flag, Nepal's national flag carries two equally meaningful symbols to its people. The first interpretation shows the double triangles signifying the Himalayan Mountains and the country's two major religions, Buddhism and Hinduism. Since the time of Mahabharata and Ramayana, a red triangular flag has symbolized victory for Hindus. The second interpretation states that when held up to a mirror, the flag's shape symbolizes a Nepalese Pagoda, a temple used for worship. Order a high-quality, vibrant Nepal flag from Carrot-Top Industries today. 

Advertising Flag Shapes 

Advertising flags come in a variety of attention-grabbing shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular include: 

Flutter Flag 

Flutter flags stand freely and are hung vertically. They are lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport them to different locations. These flags are often used for holidays, grand openings, and more. 

Teardrop Flag 

Teardrop flags get their name from their distinctive design mirroring a teardrop. They require a specialized flexible flagpole and are often used in storefronts to advertise sales, store openings, and other exciting messages. 

Blade Flag 

Blade flags are one of the most commonly used for advertising at sporting events, in front of businesses, and along sidewalks. They can indicate when a store opens when there is a sale, or to indicate a specific type of business. 

Tall Flag 

Tall flags are a favorite among businesses for advertising. They are a popular option for real estate agents, car dealerships, and more. 

Order Your Custom Flag in Any Shape at Carrot-Top Industries 

Carrot-Top Industries proudly crafts high-quality American-made flags that are built to last the test of time. Our expert flagmakers have over 70 years of combined experience walking our customers through the custom design process. Our customers can order a flag in any shape, and our designers are happy to help you create the perfect flag for your business. Simply fill out our Contact Form, and a friendly Flag Pro will help you choose the right flag shape to fit your needs. 

Also Check Out Our World Flag Collection 

Along with custom flag designs, we are proud to offer the widest selection of world and American flags. Available flags include: 

• Australia 
• Armenia 
• Brazil 
• Canada 
• Israel 
• China  
• Mexico 
• Mongolia 
• Venezuela 
• Poland 

Discover the American-made difference with a stunning and vibrant flag from the country's premier flag manufacturer, Carrot-Top Industries.