With its lightweight, breathable fabric and wacky color
check pattern, the Madras shirt could be the ultimate summer piece. It offers
the perfect way to bring simple warm-weather styles to life, while giving
everyday outfits a fresh Ivy League twist.
Yet despite its many benefits, many men continue to underuse
this preppy tee. Still living in the shadow of his more established siblings,
like the flannel shirt and the OCBD, he often goes unnoticed. We neglect it on
clothing store rails, display it through online galleries, and for those of us
who have one, most of the time, we leave it hanging in the back of the closet.
It's a shame because there is so much to say about the
madras shirt. It has a rich history, it can be a useful wardrobe tool, and
there are many brands that make fantastic versions of it. To help spark a new
appreciation for this classic coloring, let's dive into all of it below. Where
it comes from and where to buy one, here's what you need to know.
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Essentials
What is a Madras shirt?
Gitman Vintage
A madras shirt is made from a light cotton fabric, woven in
India. It features a tartan pattern, often in bright, summery colors, and can
be long or short sleeved.
The history of the Madras shirt dates back to the 17th
century, when a group of European cotton merchants met in Madraspatnam, India.
Here, they discovered a fine, airy cotton fabric made by local weavers and
began to export it home.
Madras weaving was an instant hit on the continent. It came
at a time when the most popular materials were still thick and heavy, so its
lightness and breathability was a revelation during the scorching summer
months.
A little later, in the 18th century, Madras cloth became
synonymous with colorful checkered patterns. It was a time when the tartan was
in vogue and the British nobility were eager to paint it on all kinds of
clothing. In the case of the Madras jersey, it stuck. However, to be considered
authentic, it must have the same pattern on both sides and, like champagne, it
must be made in the region from which it takes its name.
How to wear a Madras shirt
The first thing to keep in mind when designing a madras
shirt is that they are often brightly colored. As a general rule of thumb for
all men's clothing, if you're working in a bold, colorful outfit, it's best to
keep the rest of the outfit simple and neat.
A Madras shirt will go best with understated pieces in
neutral colors and shades. Think white t-shirts, beige or navy blue pants, and
basic lightweight outerwear.
For inspiration, look at those who adopted the Ivy League
madras shirt of the mid-1900s. The style became popular with American BCBG
students as a subtle way to show that they traveled a lot, and with loafers,
Harrington cardigans and jackets have become a common sight in the wood-paneled
hallways of America's most prestigious universities.
Pair it with other preppy pieces like the ones mentioned
here to give a nod to the scene that earned the madras jersey its cool points.
The best brands of Madras shirts
Wondering where to start your search for the perfect madras
shirt? Some brands are particularly known for these colorful summer staples,
and here are our handpicked picks of the best.
Duck
London-based clothing and haberdashery brand Drake's is
known for bringing its unique and flavorful twist to classic tailoring and
shirt essentials. The madras jersey has not escaped this treatment, making the
Drake a great pick for anyone looking for a luxury option with plenty of
British character.
Buy now from Drake's
Todd snyder
No one does contemporary preppy better than New York
designer Todd Snyder. The madras shirt is a staple in its eponymous brand's
spring / summer collections, available in a multitude of colors, sleeve
lengths, and collar types, including a trendy camp collar design. Each one is
made from authentic Indian madras, which gives them an air of authenticity.
Buy It Now From Todd Snyder
crew J
J.Crew is always a safe bet when it comes to stocking up on
preppy staples at affordable prices. In terms of fit, J.Crew madras shirts are
loose-fitting throughout the body for a relaxed feel in hot weather and a more
relaxed fit is necessary.