The golf shirt of presidents and rock stars
MANILA, Philippines - Respecting tradition while at the same time staying open to the challenges of the future. Recognizing the influences of the past, while at same time creating his own identity for the here and now.
That’s the modern Filipino man for you, and it’s also what the Original Penguin brand stands for. Both classic and fashion-forward, Original Penguin is one brand that cherishes its tradition of fine taste, while at the same time adhering to the style standards of the current generation.
“You can see that Original Penguin has a very diverse clientele,” says Cheryl Lao, managing partner of Anthem Shoppes, Inc. (ASI), the exclusive licensee and retail partner of Original Penguin in the Philippines, noting that both former US President Richard Nixon and Tyson Ritter, member of alt-rock band The All-American Rejects, are noted fans of Original Penguin wear. “Who would’ve thought that presidents and rock artists would be going for the same brand?”
“Original Penguin is all about an unpretentious and creative approach to fashion. It’s vintage and modern at the same time,” adds Ericson Lee, ASI managing partner. “This may be the reason why it adheres to the taste of Filipino men — no matter what field they may be in — who want something that’s unique and genuine. It appeals to their sense of originality and engages their sense of style as well.”
Original Penguin has its roots in an underwear and military supply company, Minneapolis-based Munsingwear, which, in 1955, produced the first Original Penguin golf shirt. It has been worn by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope.
Original Penguin became a wardrobe staple for many men in the following decades. And when retro fashion became all the rage in 2000, an underground passion for the brand began. This prompted Urban Outfitters’ former men’s divisional merchandising manager Chris Kolbe to approach leading fashion designer and distributor Perry Ellis to revive the brand in 2001 — adding a mod, vintage and retro element to cater to the fashion aesthetics of the new generation.
Original Penguin was then reintroduced in 2003, successfully maintaining the brand image it had in the 1950s, while at the same time offering a more current style to the current generation.
Original Penguin Shops can be found in Power Plant Mall, Shangri-La Plaza, and SM Mall of Asia. Watch out for the opening of its latest store at SM Megamall this coming October.
