Seersucker is a lightweight, puckered cotton fabric that originated in the Indian subcontinent. Its name derives from the Persian phrase 'shir o shakar,' meaning 'milk and sugar,' which describes the contrasting smooth and bumpy textures of the weave. The puckered texture allows air to circulate between the fabric and the skin, reducing heat retention and providing a cooling effect. This unique structure has made seersucker a popular choice for summer clothing for centuries.