• by Barbie Romero , Yesterday

Introduced in 1983 in Clearwater, Florida and known for its signature wings, can you name the restaurant brand instantly recognized by its trademark uniform of orange shorts and a white logo tank?

1. Founded in 1983
   Hooters opened its first restaurant on April 1, 1983, in Clearwater, Florida, founded by a group of six businessmen who called themselves the “Hooters Six.” The date was chosen as a prank, but the concept quickly took off. Lynne Austin was the first Hooters Girl hired by one of the chain founders after he had spotted her at a bikini contest.

2. Beachy Vibe Meets Hospitality
   The brand was built around a laid-back, fun-loving atmosphere featuring wings, cold beer, and sports — all served up by the iconic Hooters Girls, a symbol of hospitality and energy.

3. A Global Phenomenon
   Hooters expanded from a single store in 1983 to over 400 locations worldwide, operating in more than a dozen countries and becoming a recognizable name in casual dining and pop culture.

4. Trademark Orange Shorts
   The original Hooters Girl uniform — orange shorts and a white logo tank — is a registered trademark and remains one of the most recognizable outfits in the restaurant industry.

5. Hooters Calendar Legacy
   First released in 1986, the Hooters Calendar became a brand staple, showcasing Hooters Girls from across the country. It’s accompanied by national tours, signing events, and themed promotions.

6. Pageantry & Empowerment
   The Miss Hooters International Pageant began in the 1990s and has grown into a celebrated annual event. Since 2009, Melissa Fry has been directing and choreographing the pageant, playing a vital role in its production, branding, and the empowerment of Hooters Girls on a global stage.

7. Wings with a Following
   Hooters’ signature wings — available breaded, naked, smoked, or roasted — are at the heart of the menu, with sauces like Daytona Beach, 3 Mile Island, and Honey Thai keeping fans coming back.

8. Culture & Community
   Hooters has long been committed to community involvement and philanthropy, including raising over $9 million through its partnership with the V Foundation for Cancer Research, focused on breast cancer awareness.

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