If one fabric could prove that necessity is indeed the mother of invention, it would be seersucker. Originally developed for British soldiers to endure the sweltering heat in India, it later became a workwear solution for New Orleans gentlemen facing similar weather conditions. And thanks to the creativity of New Orleans brand, Haspel, the fabric stretched beyond its utilitarian confinement to become a fashion staple. Today, no doubt influenced by Haspel, New Orleans has plenty of contemporary designers who dabble in seersucker. Brands like Elizabeth & Jolie, Leontine Linens, Motier, Perlis and Nola Couture have all found new, fun ways to modernize the fabric.Â
Breathing even more life into the storied textile is the upcoming fundraising event Sucker for a Cause. The brainchild of Hollis Hannan, multi-hyphenate owner of Floor 13 vintage furniture store and non-profit RicRack, Sucker for a Cause features custom designed pieces by a bevy of local creatives, benefitting causes like The Feather Fund, Son of a Saint, Voice of the Experienced, Nola Pride Center and Toups Family Meal. The models (all local changemakers) will strut down the Lafitte Greenway wearing works by designers and creatives such as LaSalle & Jackson, Jeff Styles, Honey Tangerine, Fringe & Co, Kalib’s Atelier, Christina Solis, many of whom are working with the fabric for the first time. Hannan says, “Summer is a tough time for retailers and creatives. So, we’re trying to produce an event that is fun, uplifting and meaningful for everyone  involved. “The party kicks off at the Floor13 warehouse this Saturday with a DJ, food, drinks, art and clothing vendors. Then it’s on to the Lafitte Greenway for the show. Among other supporters, The Sazerac Company has donated alcohol and Haspel has donated scrap fabric for the artists to work with as well as new ties for Roots of Music students to wear during their musical performance.  Â
Seersucker as fashion is something that would not exist without New Orleans and the Haspel family. It’s something we should be uniquely proud of. Now go show your support by shopping local shops, designers or by attending the Sucker for the Cause event. Click here to purchase your VIP ticket and/or attend the event for free and shop the fashion. Â
Gingham Seersucker Vest and Shorts, Veronica Beard
Flounce Dress in Seersucker, Sue Sartor
Seersucker Swimsuit, Moda Operandi
Seersucker Micro, Febe
Pocket Square, Haspel x Nola Couture
Scrunchie, Revolve
Plush Towel, Haspel
Seersucker Halter Dress, Draper JamesÂ
Sale & Event Picks:
Today: Summer Chillin Special, Pure Dermatology
Ongoing: Semi Annual Sale, Hemline
July 26 & 27 at 10 a.m.: Estates Auction, New Orleans Auction Â
