The history of the t-shirt and the raglan sleeve
In the fashion world, few garments are as iconic and versatile as the T-shirt. Although its origins are shrouded in mystery, some believe its shape dates back to the Etruscans, while others see it as a men's undergarment of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The modern T-shirt, however, has an official birth in 1904, thanks to the Cooper Underwear Company. This American company launched a cotton crew-neck T-shirt that was destined to revolutionize the men's wardrobe. Slimmer and more fitted than the T-shirts we know today, it was advertised as the ideal garment for bachelor men: without buttons, needles or safety pins, it promised unprecedented practicality and comfort.
The following year, the U.S. Army recognized the t-shirt's extraordinary qualities and included it in its soldiers' standard equipment.
During World War II, this garment crossed the Atlantic, landing in Europe. But it was in the 1950s that it became an everyday style symbol, thanks to movie icons such as James Dean and Marlon Brando. Their simple and rebellious look, consisting of a white T-shirt and jeans, consecrated this garment in the fashion universe.
The following year, the U.S. Army recognized the t-shirt's extraordinary qualities and included it in its soldiers' standard equipment.
During World War II, this garment crossed the Atlantic, landing in Europe. But it was in the 1950s that it became an everyday style symbol, thanks to movie icons such as James Dean and Marlon Brando. Their simple and rebellious look, consisting of a white T-shirt and jeans, consecrated this garment in the fashion universe.
PETRI reinterprets this legendary garment with a touch of history: the Raglan sleeve.
Invented by jacket manufacturer Aquascutum for Lord Raglan, the Raglan sleeve carries a fascinating history.
FitzRoy Somerset, Baron Raglan, was a British general who fought in numerous battles, including Waterloo where he lost his right arm. To facilitate the use of the saber and conceal his impairment, he had jackets made with a special sleeve structure.
Invented by jacket manufacturer Aquascutum for Lord Raglan, the Raglan sleeve carries a fascinating history.
FitzRoy Somerset, Baron Raglan, was a British general who fought in numerous battles, including Waterloo where he lost his right arm. To facilitate the use of the saber and conceal his impairment, he had jackets made with a special sleeve structure.
Unlike traditional circular shoulder seams, the Raglan sleeve has two seams that start at the armpit and reach the shoulder blade, both front and back. This construction not only improves joint mobility, but has also become a popular choice for sportswear, such as in baseball.
PETRI's “Raglan” t-shirt combines history with and innovation, offering a new garment that not only celebrates the origins of the t-shirt but also incorporates tradition-rich details such as the Raglan sleeve.
The result? A perfect balance of timeless style and modern functionality.
The result? A perfect balance of timeless style and modern functionality.