The history of Original Penguin is as colorful and unique as the brand itself. Launched in 1955 by Munsingwear, a Minneapolis-based manufacturer known for its military garments and union suits, Original Penguin quickly became a staple in American sportswear. The brand made its debut with the Original Penguin golf shirt, a product that would go on to revolutionize casual and athletic fashion. What set these shirts apart was not just their style but their innovative design, featuring the “action gusset” to provide comfort and durability for golfers. This blend of functionality and fashion helped cement Original Penguin as a beloved name in the world of sports and leisure wear.

The story behind the brand’s iconic logo is a testament to the whimsical spirit that defines Original Penguin. During a sales trip to New York, one of Munsingwear’s salesmen, Abbot Pederson, stumbled upon a taxidermist’s shop and, on a whim, purchased a stuffed penguin. This seemingly random purchase led to the creation of “Pete” the Penguin, who would become the brand’s mascot. The logo’s origin is wrapped in legend and charm, with tales of cocktails and playful banter on a flight home sparking the idea to place Pete on a shirt. This serendipitous moment gave birth to an icon that has since graced the wardrobes of celebrities and fashion-forward individuals alike.

Over the decades, Original Penguin has managed to retain its classic appeal while evolving with contemporary trends. Worn by legends like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Arnold Palmer, the brand has always been synonymous with a certain cool, effortless style. Today, Original Penguin continues to appeal to a new generation, blending its rich heritage with modern sensibilities. Whether in North America, Europe, or Asia-Pacific, the brand’s distinctive blend of humor, detail, and timeless fashion remains a favorite among those who appreciate the finer aspects of leisure and style.

Penguin Clothing Commercial

How to tell if Penguin is vintage from the logo

Penguin, known for its distinctive and charming logo, has undergone several logo changes over the decades. These changes can help you identify whether your Penguin apparel is vintage. Here’s a guide to understanding the evolution of the Penguin logo through different eras:

1990s Penguin logo

• The 1990s logo features a simple and minimalistic design.
• The penguin is depicted in a more cartoonish and less detailed manner.
• The text “Original Penguin” is written in a playful, handwritten style.
• The overall design is clean and modern, reflecting the aesthetic trends of the 1990s.

1990s Penguin logo

2000s Penguin logo

• The 2000s logo introduced a more detailed and refined penguin illustration.
• The penguin is placed within a circular emblem, adding a classic touch.
• The text “Original Penguin” is in a more structured and formal font, suggesting a return to a more traditional look.
• This era’s logo combines modernity with a nod to the brand’s heritage.

2000s Penguin logo

2010s Penguin logo

• The 2010s logo features a more streamlined and contemporary design.
• The penguin is simplified but retains its iconic characteristics.
• The text is written in a clean, sans-serif font, emphasizing simplicity and modernity.
• This logo reflects Penguin’s effort to appeal to a younger, fashion-forward audience.

2010s Penguin logo

How to tell if Penguin is vintage from the tags

The evolution of Penguin’s branding is reflected in the tags used on their garments. Over the decades, the brand has transitioned through various styles, maintaining a consistent logo while updating their design to reflect the trends of each era. Here’s how to identify vintage Penguin clothing from the tags.

Can’t identify those vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you out!

1980s vintage Penguin tags

• Tags often feature “an original Penguin by Munsingwear” with a small penguin icon.
• Predominantly use bold serif lettering in red or black.
• Includes size indicators, sometimes on a separate part of the tag.
• Distinctive trapezoid shape tags with bold letters and prominent penguin icons.

1980s Penguin tags

1990s vintage Penguin tags

• Tags commonly display “Penguin Sport” with the penguin logo integrated into the design.
• Features modern typography with clean lines.
• Often includes country of manufacture information, such as “Made in Philippines”.
• Rectangular tags with bold, minimalist designs.

1990s Penguin tags

2000s vintage Penguin tags

• Introduction of “Penguin Club” and “Forge Munsingwear” sub-brands with distinctive tags.
• Tags use a combination of blue, green, and red colors for different sub-brands.
• More diverse tag shapes and layouts, including loops and rectangular designs.
• Continued use of the penguin logo with modern typography and varied color schemes.

2000s Penguin tags