ORIGINAL PENGUIN LAUNCHES CHI CHI RODRIGUEZ COLLECTION

by John Russel Jones Jun 05, 2023



Original Penguin by Munsingwear, a division of Perry Ellis International, has launched the Chi Chi Rodriguez 2023 Summer Collection. Embodying a retro yet modern look, combined with classic Original Penguin heritage and style, the Chi Chi collection brings the iconic golfer’s 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 Iwalani’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.  Polos retail for $75 to $95. 

“I am thrilled to once again wear the Penguin,” stated Chi Chi Rodriguez.  “I started to wear Munsingwear on tour in the 1960s 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.

The capsule includes:

  • A 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.