Open the doors of anyone’s closet; inside, you will likely find at least one t-shirt — if not many more. Over 6.3 billion in t-shirt sales occurred in 2021 alone, according to Statista.

People love t-shirts for their softness, breathability, comfort, and versatility. They can be worn as undershirts or on their own. T-shirts are also perfect for wearing everywhere, from home to nights out with friends.

You may be wondering: How did t-shirts become so popular? Here is a look at how one of the world’s most popular garments came to be and has a place in many people’s closets.

Shirts as Undergarments Throughout History

The history of the t-shirt began long before what we think of as traditional t-shirts existed.

Shirts date back to ancient Egypt, around 1539-1292 BCE. First, they were composed of folded and sewn linen, with holes left for the arms and head. Next, they evolved to include details like neckbands, cuffs, and later lace, embroidery, and frills.

Typically shirts were worn as undergarments for multiple reasons. They protected the wearer from the environment and abrasion from their other clothes worn as outer garments. They also served as a social symbol — often signifying status and wealth.

Traditionally many wore shirts underneath waistcoats, coats, or vests. These undershirts were linen; only small parts would show — like the collar or cuffs. However, these small details of the shirt were unavailable until around the 16th century. It was not until the 20th century when people abandoned high neck bands on shirts, and the traditional collars and ties we think of today became the norm.

History of the T-shirt: Practical Beginnings

In the early 1900s, shirts began to evolve.

Around 1904, Cooper Underwear Co. created an advertisement for “The Bachelor Shirt.” The shirt was made with a stretchy neckband and aimed at bachelors who needed to learn how to sew their own shirt buttons (or have someone who could help them). “It is easy to put on and to take off; it has no buttons to come off and none to be sewed on,” the ad promised.

The Bachelor Shirt became popular with many men, as it was easy to wear and required little maintenance (i.e., re-sewing buttons).

A Transition From Undershirt to Outershirt

Although some wore these Bachelor Shirts without buttons, they initially lacked acceptance as outer garments. Instead, shirts were still viewed mainly as an undergarment. As a result, men would wear them on their own as outer shirts in places like boiler rooms — but only with approval from higher-ups.

However, that began to change, especially through World War II.

An infamous picture from the cover of Life Magazine shows an Army Air Corps airman —  23-year-old Cpl. Alexander LeGerda — wearing his training gear. This picture included an Air Corps Gunnery School t-shirt. It was uncommon to see men in t-shirts outside of their training at this time. However, there was LeGerda, on the cover of Life Magazine in his t-shirt.

These t-shirts became standard for military members.

When soldiers came home from war, some began to wear their t-shirts as outerwear. However, with societal norms at the time, many men wore only t-shirts under their outer clothes.

It was not until Marlon Brando wore a t-shirt in “A Streetcar Named Desire” (1951), and James Dean later wore one in Rebel Without a Cause (1955) that the t-shirt went from underwear to acceptable outerwear.

T-shirts: Finding a Home in Closets Across the Globe

Over the next 70 years, t-shirts became increasingly popular. They transitioned from undershirts to outer shirts and became a daily garment worn by men, women, and people of all genders.

Blank t-shirts or those with colored designs — like stripes — were popular alongside graphic t-shirts.

Graphic t-shirts transformed beyond traditional military logos, including band logos, political messages, and more. Especially with the surge of rock and metal bands through the 70s, 80s, and 90s, band tees became a huge fashion item, especially for teens and young adults. It was a way for them to express their love of music through clothing.

Company logos, graphics, and sayings were also popular on graphic tees. Embroidery also became popular on t-shirts, giving another way to personalize the garment.

T-shirts have transformed from an undergarment into completely acceptable pieces of outerwear. Especially in the 90s and 2000s, t-shirts were so much a focus of outerwear that people would layer long sleeves underneath them to show off their tees.

T-shirt Materials Over Time

Today, you can find t-shirts in various materials — from jersey cotton to polyester. Different occasions favor these materials. They also affect the kind of customization on a t-shirt.

Jersey Cotton

A nod to the original t-shirts seen in the mid-1900s, jersey t-shirts is your standard 100% cotton tees. They are incredibly soft, breathable, and comfortable to wear. They are also the easiest to print, making them an excellent graphic design or wording base.

Heather Blends

Heather blends usually consist of a delicate balance of cotton and polyester. These have that “blended” look that makes them appear slightly worn. The cotton gives the t-shirt softness and breathability, while the polyester adds some structure.

These shirts are still great for personalizing with print designs but require extra steps or special ink to ensure the design turns out clearly.

Tri-blends

A delicate balance of three different kinds of fabric comprises tri-blends. At Bella + Canvas, we use our signature Airlume Combed and Ring-spun Cotton, polyester, and rayon. The rayon adds some moisture-wicking and gives the tee a more athletic feel.

This material is still great for plain t-shirts. In addition, a customization is an option with printing — especially for sportswear.

The Best T-shirts in the Modern Day

The history of the t-shirt may have begun as undergarments. However, today, t-shirts have a home in closets across the globe. As a result, they are worn as an undershirt underneath a hoodie or button-down to be the focal point of an outfit, style t-shirts for practically any occasion.

Tees also come in various styles, colors, and materials, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste.

If you are searching for the best, most comfortable t-shirts you can find today, look no further than Bella + Canvas. We have dozens of styles and over 300 color options, so you can find something that suits you.

If you want to customize t-shirts with no minimum on sizes, styles, and colors on domestic orders, Bella + Canvas has you covered. You can choose the exact quantity of each style you need and nothing you do not.

Discover the wide range of t-shirts at Bella + Canvas, and get inspired knowing the rich history behind this popular, loved garment!