Seersucker

images sources (R to L): Halston, J.Crew, Akris Punto

Seersucker: Beyond the Southern Gentleman

The Kentucky Derby is synonymous with two fashion must-haves: seersucker suits for men and extravagant hats for women. While the hats are event specific, seersucker has crossed over to earn a permanent spot in the everyday wardrobe of the modern woman.  It is a quintessential preppy fabric that can also be created into designs that are somewhat avant-garde. Additionally, this wrinkle-resistant woven cotton fabric packs well and is incredibly practical in warm climates because it is both breathable and lightweight.

Rich History in the South

During the British colonial period, seersucker was a popular material in Britain's warm weather colonies like British India. When seersucker was first introduced in the United States, it was used for a broad array of clothing items. For suits, the material was considered a mainstay of the summer wardrobe of gentlemen, especially in the South, who favored the light fabric in the high heat and humidity of the summer.

During the 1950s, seersucker formal wear continued to be worn by many professional adults in the South.  Southwestern US. College professors were known to favor full suits with red bowties, although 1950s Ivy League and 21st century preppy students usually restricted themselves to a single seersucker garment, such as a blazer paired with khaki Chino trousers. (1) 

A Practicle Staple in the Modern Woman's Wardrobe

For years, designers have readily integrated the use of seersucker into their Spring & Summer women collections. A few simple rules to consider:

• Match seersucker with simple accessories due to the natural pattern within the fabric. Sleek tan sandals or flats along with a matching cross body or simple clutch are perfect pairings.
• A little goes a long way. White fitted t-shirts and darted button downs pair well with seersucker shorts or cigarette pants.
• The “appropriate” season to wear seersucker is Memorial Day to Labor Day, although allow the heat and humidity of your region to dictate your fashion calendar. 

To shop our selection of seersucker favorites, visit the K.M. Thornton & Co. Marketplace. 

(1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seersucker