Preppy cool
Maximo shirt, £35.00; Tarifa shorts, £36.00; Camel t-bar shoes, £45.00
Despite its rather peculiar name, seersucker fabric is actually quite simple in concept. It’s a thin, puckered cotton or cotton blend fabric that is usually striped or checkered and most associated with preppy summer wear and garments worn in warmer climates.
The puckering effect is created by weaving the fabric on twin-looms at different speeds in such a way that some of the threads bunch together to give the fabric a wrinkled appearance and texture. Its key benefit is its lightweight nature and breathability. The wrinkled nature allows the fabric to be held mostly away from the skin when worn, allowing air to circulate. And an added benefit for many of us, it doesn’t require ironing! It’s also really quick drying so ideal for children’s clothing.
Where does the name come from?
The word 'seersucker' is English, but is said to originate from the Persian words shîr and shakar, which translates to “milk and sugar”. From the 17th century onwards, the British East India company traded with countries in the Indian Ocean region, which gave rise to the textile’s popularity as seersucker was the ideal material for warm and muggy climates.