Behind every elite club is a hidden story a forgotten tradition, an eccentric founder, or a detail so exclusive only members know it exists. From sports clubs to secret societies, these organisations are packed with surprising quirks.
Here’s a curated list of incredible facts you probably didn’t know about some of the world’s most iconic clubs and how these details still influence modern branding and uniforms.
1. The Oxford University Boat Club Uses Colours Older Than Most Nations
The club’s dark blue is one of the most recognisable in the world, and it’s been part of their uniform since 1829 long before modern branding even existed. It symbolises legacy, elite rivalry, and sets the tone for every varsity event.
Design tip: Anchoring your club in a heritage colour instantly adds prestige.
2. The Bullingdon Club Owns a Uniform Worth £3,500+
This exclusive Oxford dining club is infamous for its tailored navy tailcoats with silk lapels and ivory waistcoats. Members are required to purchase their entire uniform, and the tradition hasn't changed in over a century.
This proves how uniform = commitment in old-school clubs.
3. Augusta National Golf Club Once Had a Strict ‘No Women’ Policy
Known for its pastel green jackets and pristine golf course, Augusta made headlines for only admitting female members in 2012. Its strict dress code and jacket tradition still define what club exclusivity looks like.
4. The Freemasons Have a Global Dress Code
Across every continent, Freemasons wear aprons symbolising rank and ritual. Each lodge has minor variations, but all adhere to the tradition of white gloves and blue collars a consistent identity despite their global spread.
Uniforms create cohesion even when the group is international.
5. Yale’s Skull and Bones Society Has a Tomb, Not a House
Skull and Bones, one of the most well-known secret societies, calls its meeting place a “tomb” rather than a house. Though its members are sworn to secrecy, their uniform typically includes dark suits with matching ties and emblems.
6. Eton’s Uniform Hasn't Changed in Over 150 Years
Britain’s elite Eton College still dresses students in black tailcoats and starched collars, a look dating back to the Victorian era. The point? Some uniforms become timeless precisely because they’re never altered.
7. The Marylebone Cricket Club Invented the “Blazer”
The word blazer actually comes from the scarlet red jackets worn by the MCC in the 1800s. They lit up the pitch so vividly, the term stuck and soon clubs everywhere wanted their own distinctive outerwear.
This is why outerwear often defines a club’s visual identity.
8. The Royal Yacht Squadron Requires Formal Dress to Enter
Located on the Isle of Wight, members must be in formal dress including naval-inspired jackets and sometimes even caps just to enter the clubhouse. No dress code, no access.
9. Polo Clubs Use Saddle Markings for Member ID
Some traditional polo clubs used to mark leather saddles with the member’s number or initials, a nod to the earliest forms of branded gear long before screen printing or embroidery.
Why These Facts Matter
When building your club or merch collection, these little details remind us:
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Uniforms tell stories.
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Traditions matter—even made-up ones.
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The more history you can reference, the more “real” your brand feels.
At Secret Society Studio, we believe in creating apparel that feels like it’s been part of a world for decades even if it just launched.
Final Thoughts
The most powerful club uniforms don’t just match they mean something. Whether it's a crest passed through generations or a hidden ritual sewn into a garment, these elements build emotional connection and pride.
Take inspiration from history, and start building your own legacy.
Ready to Build a Club Worth Remembering?
We help clubs, brands, and societies create apparel rich in story and style. Explore our classic pieces and start your tradition today.
