BROOKS Daniel, John, Elisha & Edward (Brook Brothers) (Retailers)

From Wall Street to Capitol Hill, the oldest retail clothing company in America has been catering to the establishment since 1818. Brooks Brothers pioneered men's ready-to-wear, with an emphasis on soft construction and ease. Its unmistakable air of traditionalism has not prevented Brook Brothers from introducing some of the principal innovations in American men's clothing. Bermuda-length shorts and the classic pink shirt first hit the American shores through their stores. Brooks also brought over the button-down shirt collars worn by polo players in England, instituted madras fabric for shirts (originally designed for British officers in India), and introduced the Brooks Shetland sweater and their trademark Polo coat in white, camel or grey with mother-of-pearl buttons and a full belt. Ralph Lauren's early work experience for Brooks Brothers was a crucial influence in shaping his own label's style. 

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