Learn the history of the white shirt

The history of the white T-shirt is a curious one. Although it seems like a garment that fades with time, it's becoming more and more fashionable and is finding its place in different trends. What was the first undershirt? Who created it, and how was it used? Let's answer all these questions and tell you some very interesting details about this garment.

The origins of the white shirt

The origins of the white undergarment date back to 1904. It was the Cooper Underwear Company that thought it was the most logical evolution of the old-fashioned long johns . These were full-length jumpsuits that covered virtually the entire body and were put on and taken off with zippers and buttons. Hence, the slogan advertising the new undergarment was: "No safety pins, no buttons, no needle or thread." The purpose of the undershirt was clear: it would be worn under a shirt, much more comfortable than a full jumpsuit. However, the army believed it could have a better use: as an outdoor undershirt. And so it was during World War II, when they wore them under thick camouflage jackets . It was very comfortable and adaptable to body temperature, so they could leave it under an open jacket or without it for easier movement. This was the first time that an undergarment was worn as an outer garment . However, as with many other fashions, this didn't become a trend until some celebrities started wearing it and paved the way for thousands of men to follow in their daily lives.

From underwear to outerwear: the history of the white T-shirt

Until celebrities and other influential figures showed it to the world, the use of the white jersey from indoor to outdoor didn't become popular or cross international borders. What were some of the most important milestones in the history of the white jersey?

1950s

Actor Marlon Brando wore it as an outer garment in one of his most famous films, A Streetcar Named Desire (Elia Kazan, 1951) . Those years, and specifically this film, catapulted one of the most attractive men of all time to fame. His figure became a fashion icon , and, naturally, the white T-shirt became a trend to follow. The same thing happened in the case of actor James Dean , who wore it as the only garment under his leather jacket in such famous films as Rebel Without a Cause (Nicholas Ray, 1955). Both are just two of the best examples of the influencers of the era, who set a precedent for the use of a garment that to this day remains a must-have in any man's wardrobe. años 50 historia de la camiseta blanca

60s and 70s

During the 1960s and 1970s, something unexpected happened: the white T-shirt went from being exclusively for men to being worn by women as well . However, a more feminine style was developed with short sleeves that could be cuffed or uncuffed, and a more fitted cut that emphasized the female figure.

90s

Thanks to the fashion runways of the time and the minimalist trend that was beginning to take hold, the white T-shirt became a must-have for any look where comfort was paramount. At this time, simplicity and freedom of movement took precedence over aesthetics or beads.

Present

And no, it hasn't been a fad that has passed with time or with advances in the industry. The white T-shirt is back to stay. While its use seemed to have declined, thanks to artists like Kendall Jenner, C. Tangana, and Justin O'Shea , the white T-shirt is no longer just a staple, but an essential item. We can't deny that the white T-shirt is a multifunctional garment that looks good with any style . It can be adapted to all kinds of looks with its many styles, as we can find them with short sleeves, wide straps, thin straps, round or V-necks, tighter or looser... It all depends on you and which one you feel best in. And remember to know the tricks to remove stains from your white T-shirt so you can enjoy your impeccable clothes.