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The origins of some of fashion’s most iconic pieces, the ones that have stood the test of time and seasonal trends, can often be traced back to the closets of blue-collar workers such as factory workers and farmers. And the reason for that is quite simple. No matter how good-looking and well designed a piece of clothing is, if it’s not comfortable, it is quite simply doomed. And when it comes to comfort, fabrics are key.
This is why seersucker is such a summer staple. Its signature pucker texture—the result of a technique that weaves threads using different tension levels—keeps the wearer cool during the warmer months.
It’s not surprising that the fabric was especially popular with workers in the South where the tropical climate can make summers especially grueling. Joseph Haspel Sr., a New Orleans-based tailor, was the first one to see its potential beyond its workwear roots. He famously walked into the Atlantic ocean dressed in a seersucker suit that he later left to drip dry on a fence just to make a point—the suit will look like new without any need of ironing and ready to be worn again that same night (which of course it was).
Related: This Classic Menswear Staple Is Making a Comeback
Naturally, it didn’t take long for celebrities and politicians to add seersucker to their wardrobes—Clark Gable, President Truman, and Jeff Bridges have all donned impeccably tailored suits by Haspel. To celebrate its 110th anniversary this year, the brand released a limited-edition suit collection in five silhouettes all inspired by Haspel’s best-selling vintage looks sporting modern updates.
So if your wardrobe can use a little Southern flare, we rounded up the most stylish suits to add to your closet this summer.
Haspel NOLA Crème DB Navy Pinstripe Seersucker Suit
The pleated pants of this suit feature a side tab waistband while the double-breasted jacket sports side vents and flap pockets.
To buy: $695, haspel.com
Haspel Mardi Green Seersucker Sport Coat and Pants
The classic fit of this double button sports coat makes it a styling powerhouse. Wear it either with matching pants or for a more casual vibe, a pair of light-colored chinos or jeans.
To buy: $395, haspel.com; $200, haspel.com
Z Zegna D8 Seersucker Suit
Cut from breezy linen-and-cotton seersucker, this jacket-and-pants set sports a slim-fit silhouette. The jacket features four-button cuffs, side vents, and interior pockets while the pants have slant pockets and hook-and-bar closure. The hems are left unfinished so you can adjust the length.
To buy: $1,350, nordstrom.com
Paul Smith Black Soho Slim-Fit Prince Of Wales Checked Stretch-Cotton Seersucker Suit Jacket
This checked cotton seersucker coat has a bit of a stretch in it for a more comfortable fit and is the perfect piece to style with dark trousers for a stylish evening look.
To buy: $1,300, mrporter.com
Giorgio Armani Men's Solid Stretch Seersucker Sport Jacket
Giorgio Armani’s version of the classic seersucker sports jacket comes with a notched collar and four-button cuffs and is cut from a blend of virgin wool and spandex.
To buy: $2,295, neimanmarcus.com
Brooks Brothers Madison Fit Stripe Seersucker Suit
Both the jacket and pants of this blue-and-ivory striped cotton seersucker set sport a regular fit. The jacket is partially lined and has two buttons. We’d wear the suit to a daytime summer wedding for a stylish look that will keep you cool when temperatures go up.
Related: Brooks Brothers' New Era
To buy: $498, brookbrothers.com
Bonobos Lightweight Italian Seersucker Suit Jacket and Pants
This navy striped suit is the perfect warm weather option to wear to the office. The single-breasted jacket sports two buttons, a peak lapel, and interior welt pockets while the matching pants feature a hook and bar closure and come unhemmed.
To buy: $500, bonobos.com; $250, bonobos.com
Polo Ralph Lauren Seersucker Suit Jacket and Pants
For a preppy summer look, pick up this classic blue-and-white-striped seersucker jacket and matching pants. We love the oversized patch pockets on the jacket and the right hip mini pocket on the pants.
To buy: $350, ralphlauren.com; $245, ralphlauren.com
Isaia Seersucker Single-breasted Blazer
Now is the time to wear white! Style this lightweight single-breasted blazer with a pair of knee-length shorts for a fresh take on the short suit.
To buy: $1,115, saksfifthavenue.com
BOSS Men's Slim Fit Seersucker Unlined Jacket
This light-hued blazer will add a stylish touch to a casual outfit. It sports a slim fit silhouette, a notch lapel, and flap pockets.
To buy: $595, neimanmarcus.com
