The T-shirt, a staple in everyday wardrobe, has come a long way since it was first introduced in the early 20th century. One aspect that has changed over time is the sleeve design, which has evolved to include various styles and cuts.
In the early days of the T-shirt, sleeves were typically short and sleeveless, intended to be worn as an undershirt. As the T-shirt became more popular as an outer garment, sleeves began to be added in the form of short sleeves, also known as “cap sleeves”, which covered the shoulder but ended above the bicep. This design was popular in the 1920s and 1930s.
During the 1950s and 1960s, T-shirt sleeves grew longer, reaching to the elbow, which was known as “baseball sleeves”. This design was popular in sportswear and casual wear. In the 1970s, T-shirt sleeves grew even longer, reaching to the wrist, which became known as “bell sleeves”. This design was popular in fashion and was often seen on disco-inspired clothing.
In the 1980s, T-shirt sleeves returned to a shorter length, but with a new twist. Known as “raglan sleeves”, these sleeves extended in one piece to the collar, leaving the shoulder exposed. This design was popular in sportswear and casual wear.
The 1990s saw the rise of the “drop shoulder” T-shirt, where the sleeves were cut wider and hung off the shoulder, creating a relaxed and oversized look. This design was popular in streetwear and hip-hop fashion.
Today, T-shirt sleeves come in a variety of designs, from classic short sleeves to modern styles like cold-shoulder and cut-out sleeves. The sleeve design continues to evolve, reflecting the changing fashion trends and preferences of consumers.