How a Penguin Took Over the Fashion World: The Original Penguin story
Fashion has a way of surprising people. Sometimes all it takes is one detail - a logo, a color or even a name - to spark a flood of questions. And what if that detail is a small, stylish penguin stitched on your shirt The story of Original Penguin is all about how chance, creativity and a bold idea turned into a global icon.
It all started with... whisky bottles and army uniforms
The 1950s. America was blooming after the nightmare of war. One of the guys of that era was Abbot Pederson - just a salesman at Munsingwear, a company making underwear and military gear. A wanderer at heart, Pederson decided one day to leave Minneapolis and catch a flight to New York. At the airport, as often happens, he gave in to a small temptation: a bottle of whisky. A few sips later, he wandered into a souvenir shop where his eyes landed on... a stuffed penguin. Yes, a stuffed penguin.
Nobody knows what exactly went through his head, but he bought the odd bird. On the flight, the penguin got christened Pete and Pederson started telling fellow passengers made up stories about his new “friend”. Was it just the whisky talking Maybe. But that flight changed fashion history forever.
The polo that changed the game
Back in Minneapolis, Pederson had one goal: create something that would make Munsingwear stand out. The brand was already known for quality underwear and technical gear, but Pederson wanted more. Inspired by his stuffed Pete, he came up with a polo shirt - elegant yet casual and sporty. On the chest sat a small penguin, a symbol of style, humor and confidence.
At the time polo shirts were linked to the elite - tennis, golf, high society. Original Penguin nailed it: their polos were cheaper than Ralph Lauren or Lacoste, but still top quality. Pete the penguin quickly became a cult icon. Funny, charming, instantly recognizable. In the 60s Original Penguin polos were worn by everyone - from Frank Sinatra and Arnold Palmer to Richard Nixon.
The penguin on fashion’s frontline
Original Penguin quickly grew from a small family brand into a casualwear giant. Their clothes became a symbol of the style of the time - elegance mixed with laid back charm. Pete the penguin showed up everywhere: on sweaters, jackets, trousers and accessories. The brand built its image on authenticity and a sense of humor.
The 70s and 80s brought challenges. Like many brands, Original Penguin faced globalization and tougher competition. Pete slipped off the radar for a while, as new players took the spotlight.
The penguin comeback: a new era
Luckily, Pete’s story wasn’t over. In 2000 the brand was taken over by Perry Ellis International, who decided to revive the legend. This time Original Penguin embraced conscious retro: refreshed classics, new colors, but always the same charm and tongue in cheek approach to fashion.
The polo shirts returned to the spotlight and the brand started working with stars from music and sport. Ad campaigns featured characters that fit the Penguin philosophy perfectly: a bit eccentric, but always authentic. Pete was back everywhere - from LA streets to New York clubs to Miami beaches.
Original Penguin today
Today Original Penguin is more than just a logo on the chest. It’s a cultural symbol that connects past and present. The brand grows with a focus on sustainability, using eco friendly materials and responsible production. Yet Pete has stayed true to his roots - still a symbol of humor, style and not taking life too seriously.
And what about that stuffed penguin that started it all Legend has it he still sits in the company’s HQ as a reminder that big things often start with the smallest ideas.
