#BeAnOriginal
Miami, FL — Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®, a division of Perry Ellis International, is pleased to announce the launch of the Chi Chi Rodriguez 2023 Summer Collection. Introducing a retro yet modern look, combined with the classic Original Penguin heritage and style, the Chi Chi collection brings his trademark swagger on and off the course.
“The Chi Chi Rodriguez collection fully incorporates what it means to be an original,” stated Oscar Feldenkreis, CEO of Perry Ellis International. “El Toreador is a true icon in the game and one of the most popular golfers of all time. This collection perfectly reflects his distinct style, from his hallmark fedora to his signature “sword dance” celebration. We are excited to bring this collection of products to market, merging Chi Chi’s original style with Penguin’s trademark performance.”
The design inspiration for the Chi Chi collection comes in part from his beloved wife’s love of Hawaii. The signature “Iwalani” floral print is created with colors and patterns representing a retro heritage style with a modern “original” twist.
“I am thrilled to once again wear the Penguin,” stated Chi Chi Rodriguez. “I started to wear Munsingwear on tour in the 1960’s and won the first five tournaments I played in with the same shirt. I loved the way the shirt felt on me and the looks were a little different, which was great because I was a little different and I wanted to stand out.”
The Chi Chi collection features a vibrant array of patterns and styles with a distinct color palette highlighted by tones of blue, bright white, cherry tomato and black iris with a backdrop of floral patterns and prints. “The colors are exactly what my wife Iwalani would have picked,” added Rodriguez. “It’s almost like she designed the collection herself.”
Enhanced performance technologies and fabrics of the Chi Chi capsule include luxe sustainable recycled yarns with elastane blends such as Repreve, 4-way stretch, extremely lightweight blends, and moisture-wicking UPF sun protection and eco-friendly finishes.
Highlights of the Chi Chi capsule include:
- Special Penguin logo inspired by Chi Chi’s iconic fedora
- Refreshed classic Chi Chi polos including the iconic Earl, Heritage Tipped Mock, Floral and Tribal Prints, and All Over Pete
- Heritage Micro Floral Print shorts and colorful trousers
- Heritage graphic T-Shirts
- Heritage Sweater Hoodie
- Heritage Fedora
“This new collection perfectly reflects who I am as a golfer and person,” added Rodriguez. “It’s a nostalgic collection, very inspirational, and one that I am very proud of.”
Original Penguin and Pete the Penguin have left their mark on a league of legends. For over 60 years, its namesake bird-adorned apparel has been adored by the masters of leisure and sport to define an American classic. Today, the Penguin icon still stands as a symbol for those who know how to be an original.
About An Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®
In 1955, Minneapolis-based Munsingwear – an underwear and military supply company – ironically became the touchstone of suburban sport with the introduction of the first iconic golf shirt to America – an ORIGINAL PENGUIN®. Known for its unique, humorous and detail-oriented clothing, Original Penguin offers a full range of men’s and children’s clothing, accessories and fragrances. The brand continues to evolve into the sports arena with the addition of tennis and pickleball apparel. Original Penguin is a global brand with retail stores worldwide as well as two dedicated e-commerce websites: www.originalpenguin.com and www.originalpenguin.co.uk.
About Perry Ellis International
Perry Ellis International, Inc. is a leading designer, distributor, and licensor of a broad line of high quality men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, and fragrances. The company’s collection of dress and casual shirts, golf sportswear, sweaters, dress pants, casual pants and shorts, jeans wear, active wear, dresses, and men’s and women’s swimwear is available through all major levels of retail distribution. The company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, owns a portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized brands, including: Perry Ellis®, An Original Penguin by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®, Manhattan®, Axist® and Farah®. The company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR®, and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel. Additional information on the company is available at www.pery.com
For more information, contact:
Stuart Goldstein
RG Narrative Inc.
(M) 201-681-0618
stuart@rgnarrative.com
