A seersucker suit was once the calling card of the Southern gentleman, but the quintessential striped summer fabric now assumes a younger, more modern edge to find acceptance by businessmen, prepsters and hipsters alike.

Versatility plays a big role in the appeal of the cotton suit. Unlike a regular suit jacket, the cotton version takes a more relaxed approach, allowing it to travel easily between work and casual dress events.

Designers and custom clients find it appealing because you can have fun with seersucker. Cotton Incorporated claims that the cotton suit has developed its own sensibility, one that complements the summer weather, when living should be easy.

While demand for summer cotton suits emanates from the Deep South, their popularity grows as a warm weather favorite in almost any region. The ultra-traditional, three-button suit with plain-front pants remains a best seller. Custom choices have increased the popularity of both two-button suits with pleated trousers, and three-button suits with pleated trousers, and double-breasted models with some side vent detailing. Some jackets may be semi- constructed with half-linings. A premium attitude in men's dressing has fueled interest in cotton suits in updated silhouettes and fabrications.

Interest in transitional suitings like cotton and seersucker isn't just for the young at heart or the die- hard traditionalist. The cotton suit appeals to so many because it's an alternative to wool that you can feel comfortable in and can wear to work, but it can also be worn casually.

Question
What's the secret of packing a suit for a trip so it doesn't wrinkle?

Answer
The first principle of packing to minimizing wrinkles is to fit the contents snugly enough to prevent shifting. To avoid wrinkling, the suit should be the last layer packed; trousers are packed first, since they lie flat, folded in half with the bottoms stopping just short of the waistband. The jacket is folded lengthwise in half, inside out; take care to push the shoulders through while making sure the sleeves meet each other inside, hanging down without wrinkling. If still too long, fold over a second time between the button nearest the waistline and the top of the inside chest pocket, a line where a fold will easily come out. For protection, a moisture proof layer should sit between suit jacket and outer shell. A hanging garment bag produces fewer wrinkles than a conventional suitcase but involves more effort, and the probability of loss while carrying it around airports and on and off planes.