The t-shirt is a closet staple, featuring a simple design that has become a fashion must-have. But the humble origins of the t-shirt began as an undergarment before it evolved into a fashion statement that we know and love today.
In the 1800s, men typically wore a one-piece undergarment that extended from the ankles to the neck called a union suit. It was impractical for hot weather, so manufacturers began to produce undershirts - a shorter version of the union suit that only covered the upper body.
The t-shirt as we know it today started to take shape in the early 1900s. The U.S. Navy issued them as standard undershirts for soldiers, and by the 1920s, they had become acceptable to wear as a standalone shirt.
It wasn't until the 1950s when the t-shirt entered mainstream fashion. Celebrities like James Dean and Marlon Brando popularized t-shirts as an outer layer, and graphic tees started to appear on clothing racks in department stores.
Today, t-shirts have evolved into a symbol of personal style and expression. With endless styles and designs available, they can be dressed up with a blazer or dressed down with jeans. They have also become a powerful marketing tool, from band merch to statement-making slogans.
The men's t-shirt has come a long way from its roots as an undershirt. The evolution of the t-shirt as a standalone fashion statement has allowed it to remain a wardrobe staple throughout the years and continue to innovate with new styles and designs.