Madras is a checked patterned fabric, light and supple. It is rather loosely woven and presents bright colors such as yellow, red or green.

It takes its name from the Indian city of Madras, now called Chennai, in the Gulf of Bengal. Records show that colored fabrics have existed in this region since the 13th century, but not yet presenting the characteristic checks that we know of. It was during the 18th century that this pattern appeared. It is said that Indian weavers were inspired by Scottish tartans in the creation of the madras check.

For our Edition 20, we have chosen a washed linen madras fabric. The wash softens the material, making it more comfortable to wear. It also gives a slightly faded effect, as a reference to the “bleeding madras” phenomenon of the 1960s.

Our madras fabric is available in two colors: honey, used on our mechanician jacket, and blue, which is available on a camp collar shirt, a pair of shorts and a bucket hat.