Brooks Brothers Blue and White Checkered Shirt

Stylish checkered shirt by Brooks Brothers. Brooks Brothers, America's oldest clothing retailer (established in 1818), is best known for its traditional men's suits, shirts, and classic Ivy League style. However, its ladies’ clothing line has a rich and evolving history that deserves recognition. Origins of Women's Apparel at Brooks Brothers 1949: Brooks Brothers cautiously entered the women’s market with a limited collection of shirtwaist dresses, button-down shirts, and tailored pieces designed to mirror the brand’s menswear style. These were mainly offered in flagship stores like the one in New York City. 1960s–1970s: The brand’s women's offerings expanded slowly, often worn by sophisticated, East Coast women who wanted the same preppy, quality look that their husbands and sons wore. 1980s–1990s: As the brand modernized, Brooks Brothers began actively marketing to women. They introduced blazers, skirts, slacks, and business-appropriate suits for women, maintaining their signature clean lines and high-quality fabrics. By the 1990s, women’s collections were carried in nearly all stores. 2003: A major turning point occurred when the women’s division was revamped. Designers focused on updating the fit and style while staying loyal to the preppy and professional aesthetic. Legacy Brooks Brothers’ women’s clothing has carved out a niche by offering timeless, professional, and refined fashion, often echoing the brand’s menswear roots.