The Evolution of Santa Claus' Suit
Why is Santa Claus traditionally depicted wearing a red suit?
Since red was the color of the priestly robes he would have worn for his function as the Bishop of Myra in Turkey in the third century, St. Nicholas, the genuine historical figure on whom Santa Claus is based, was once thought to be dressed in red.
Answer
Santa Claus is traditionally depicted wearing a red suit because the color red was associated with the priestly robes that St. Nicholas, the historical figure on whom Santa Claus is based, would have worn during his time as the Bishop of Myra in Turkey in the third century.
St. Nicholas, known for his generosity and gift-giving, became the basis for the modern-day figure of Santa Claus. Over the centuries, the image of Santa Claus has evolved and incorporated various cultural influences.
The portrayal of Santa Claus wearing a red suit with white fur trim can be credited to Thomas Nast's illustrations for Harper's Weekly magazine. The modern American version of Santa's suit was popularized by Haddon Sundblom in his advertising work for The Coca-Cola Company. Although Sundblom's work did standardize the western interpretation of Santa, the traditional red color of the suit is rooted in the historical attire of St. Nicholas.
While the image of Santa Claus may vary in different countries, with some retaining religious attire resembling a Bishop's mitre, the iconic red suit with white fur trim has become synonymous with the Americanized version of Santa Claus cherished around the world.