THERE ONCE WAS A PANT FROM NANTUCKET

The familiar pink pant seen throughout country clubs and marinas are an enduring New England look

Along with lobster rolls, fluffernutters, and Fenway's Green Monster, nothing screams New England like “Nantucket Reds,” those salmon-ish pink khakis that men and women sport all summer long. “Nanny Reds” as they’re known by locals were introduced by Philip C. Murray, owner of Murray’s Toggery Shop on Nantucket in the 1960’s.

Constructed from a red canvas fabric meant to fade over time, they resemble the color of the sails that dotted the coast of Brittany, France. The pants exploded in popularity when they were featured in the 1980 publication of the Official Preppy Handbook, a tongue-in-cheek reference guide that soon became the peppy set’s bible.

Authentic Nanny Reds are still one of Murray’s best-selling items, but they can also be found with distinctive touches and in various fits by most designers. While the originals have a traditional fit that’s fuller cut through the leg and seat, today you can find slim versions in lighter weight fabrics and not just in pants but also hats, shorts and polo shirts.

And while you can’t miss by pairing them with a crisp white polo or button-down, Nanny Reds’ faded color practically a makes them neutral. To stand apart from the crowd, pair them with light or navy blue, black, heather grey or butter yellow to elevate the look from commonplace to distinctive.