Original Penguin
Experiences & Reviews
Original Penguin is a heritage American apparel brand, founded in the mid-20th century and known for casual menswear such as polo shirts, shirts and accessories. The label is positioned around retro-inspired designs and wardrobe staples for men. The brand operates online retail channels and has been licensed/managed under larger apparel groups in recent decades, making it a recognised name in mid-market menswear searches.
Overview & Key Metrics
Our Analysis
Service quality
Many reviews cite cancelled orders, misrouted or delayed deliveries and slow or missing refunds and returns; a small number note prompt, damage-free delivery.
Value for money
Several reviewers describe problems with discount codes, gift-card handling and unexpected return fees; a few customers felt price matched product quality.
User experience
Some customers praise the website's navigation, but multiple reviews report confusing ordering flows, fake or pre-advice tracking numbers and inconsistent fulfilment updates.
Product quality
Reports include holes around polo shirt labels, pilling and occasional incorrect items; other reviewers note durable materials and distinctive designs.
Communication
Widespread comments describe limited or unhelpful support: missing phone contacts, chat failures, automated replies and a lack of timely updates from the company.
Overall experience
Most reviewers describe negative post‑sale experiences related to fulfilment and support, while a minority recommend the brand for styling and some product quality.
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Data Collection
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AI Analysis
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Featured Customer Experiences
Representative examples from 21 verified reviews (July 2022 – September 2025).
Fantastic Clothing Quality at Original Penguin
"I recently purchased clothing and accessories from Original Penguin, and my overall experience was fantastic. The website is very user-friendly with simple navigation to find exactly what I was looking for. Additionally, the product selection was extensive with a variety of styles available in all sizes. The quality of their products stood out the most to me as they were made with durable materials designed to last longterm use. The unique designs made my purchase even more special, setting me apart from others. Their delivery service was prompt and efficient; my order arrived quickly and without any damages which truly impressed me. Overall, I highly recommend Original Penguin for anyone who wants high-quality clothing that will not only look great but also last long-term use."
Customer Service/Support Abysmal - doesn't exist
"I'd give them zero stars if it was possible. Ordered merchandise (golf polos) for a team event (32 items). Order financially committed (credit card)...."
Holes in Penguin polo shirts
"My husband has several Original Penguin polo shirts and almost every one has holes around the corners of the label at the back,..."
Wish I could give zero stars
"Wish I could give zero stars. Initial order was delayed with half of it cancelled. I received an apology and a $25 gift card. I went to use a discount..."
All Customer Reviews
Filtered, experience-based customer reviews from public sources; vague and duplicate submissions removed.
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All Customer Reviews
Sources: Trustpilot (20) · Collected.reviews (1) · Quotes shortened · As of: September 2025
Customer Care just simply doesn’t care!
Customer Care just simply doesn’t care! I’ve been a regular customer of Penguin for a while, and purchased quite a few polo tops. As another reviewer...
Don't purchase from their website…
Don't purchase from their website unless you enjoy the dispute process with you...
Happy customer. I'd recommend them
I see lots of unhappy reviews about online ordering and refund process. I've been very pleased with my purchased items. Quality...
Shipping terrible and customer service terrible
I will not able to the order because of deadline that I will be out of town. During the order placement I left a note for Original Penguin to deliver...
t no experience is the same
I have bought loads of stuff but no experience is the same with them, getting a refund is a nightmare unless you do it properly through their link. I...
If they were great I'd be covered in…
If they were great I'd be covered in their clothing. Unfortunately they are a scam. Literally sent me a fruit...
I returned goods 0n 23/10
I returned goods 0n 23/10, which were received in Felixstowe on 25/10 which at the time of writing have still not been credited. I have bee...
Was a Penguin lifer, now steering clear.
Was a lifer, bought loads of Pengiun. Recently the courier failed two deliveries, mine and my partners same day. Stated he had left a card but didn't...
Holes in Penguin polo shirts
My husband has several Original Penguin polo shirts and almost every one has holes around the corners of the label at the back,...
Wish I could give zero stars
Wish I could give zero stars. Initial order was delayed with half of it cancelled. I received an apology and a $25 gift card. I went to use a discount...
Borderline fraudulent....
What major brand doesn't have a customer service # to call??? Really Perry Ellis/Penguin? Purchased items during a "40% off sale items" sale and tried...
Poor quality
Looks great to start with but soon pills badly, even with light use. When I complained in the 7th month after purchase...
Customer Service/Support Abysmal - doesn't exist
I'd give them zero stars if it was possible. Ordered merchandise (golf polos) for a team event (32 items). Order financially committed (credit card)....
No customer service
Like so many others my order was cancelled for no reason. Didn't fin...
Order Cancelled for No Real Reason
Ordered as a Christmas gift - was notified that my order had been cancelled 4 days later without reason other than 'suspected to be fraudulent' even t...
I only give 1 star cause I can’t give…
I only give 1 star cause I can’t give none ordered a shirt last Monday net turned up they cancelled my order and no...
Horrible clothing company
Horrible clothing company. Once you placed an order they are goi...
Bad experience to return an item.
Ordered multiple shirts and one style does not fit as it should so I requested a return and they make it fvery difficult to find a way, a...
Online issues - no update on item after money was taken
Ordered item, never received it and when I phoned told it was a warehouse issue and will be refunded and 20% discount voucher was offered (which you c...
Do not order from this shambles of a company
Still waiting for my order with no update or contact...
Conclusion
Reviews show a clear pattern of post‑sale problems: many customers report cancelled orders, delayed or misdirected deliveries, difficulties obtaining refunds and limited helpful contact options. Product reports are mixed — several customers describe issues with polo shirts (holes, pilling) while others praise material durability and the range of styles. If you are considering buying, check the returns and refund process before purchase, keep order and tracking screenshots, and be cautious when relying on promotional codes or gift cards. For larger or time‑sensitive orders, consider contacting customer support proactively and allowing extra time for fulfilment.