You’ve probably seen it on jackets, shirts, and dresses—but did you know the iconic Madras check began as a humble handwoven lungi in a small South Indian village? 

Originating in Madrasapattinam (now Chennai), the fabric was made from cotton dyed with natural colors, featuring vibrant checks that would bleed and blend with every wash—earning it the nickname “Bleeding Madras.” Lightweight, soft, and eco-friendly, it was perfect for the hot, humid climate.

By the 17th century, British traders had turned this simple fabric into a global commodity. It reached Africa, the Caribbean, and eventually the US, where Ivy League students and 1950s elites turned it into a status symbol. Designers like Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren, Prada, and Gucci made Madras check a fashion staple worldwide.

Today, designers such as Kavita Parmar and Aneeth Arora are reviving handwoven Madras, giving credit to the skilled artisans who craft it. Yet in India, it remains casual homewear—a hidden gem of cultural heritage.

From fishermen to fashion runways, Madras check proves that true style transcends centuries and continents.