Introduced in 1997 in various jewel tones, Starbucks began using a distinct, now-iconic candy-apple red cup in 1999. Since then, the red cup has evolved into a powerful seasonal marker.

Starbucks is ringing in the holidays with the return of its Red Cup Day giveaway. On Thursday, Nov. 14, customers can get a ...

Heading up the design effort was Kristy Cameron, Starbucks’ creative director, who said that her team was inspired by “genuine moments of joy” for the look and feel of this year’s cups.