The Madras Collection celebrates two of Turnbull & Asser’s guiding principles – craftsmanship and utility. Madras plaids have been a pillar of preppy summer style since gaining popularity in the late 1950s. Named for the city where it originated, the lightweight, breathable fabric is a uniquely Indian invention particularly suited to sweltering subtropical heat. This is key now that New York City “sits within the humid subtropical climate zone” according to the New York Times.
Madras fabrics are traditionally made of cotton tinted with vegetable dyes that gently fade with wear. Turnbull’s Madras Collection keeps the muted colors but upgrades the shirting fabric, using sustainably produced French linen. The 13-piece line features two firsts for the British shirtmaker, a relaxed fit camp collar Madras shirt and an Italian made 3-button, unstructured cotton twill suit – both designed to keep you cool while summering on the Cape or creeping through the (subtropical) concrete jungle.
Shop The Madras Collection ($425-$475.00) now at turnbullandasser.com.
