Why Is It Called A Sweatshirt?
The sweatshirt earned its name from its original purpose: to absorb the sweat of the wearer during physical activity. The word first appeared in print in the early 1900s, and the garment was designed as a heavy cotton layer to keep athletes and laborers dry during workouts and manual labor. Today, sweatshirts are worn by people of all ages and occupations as a popular casual clothing item.
This article explores the history of the sweatshirt, how it became a wardrobe staple, and the different ways people wear them today.
The Origins of the Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts have been around for over a century and are worn by people of all ages and genders. Let’s examine the history.
The Inventor
The sweatshirt was invented in 1920 by Benjamin Russell Jr., a quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide Football team. Frustrated by wool uniform chafing and itching during practices, he collaborated with his father, Benjamin C. Russell, founder of the Russell Manufacturing Company in Alexander City, Alabama. The company produced knit garments and developed a thick cotton practice jersey based on a ladies’ union suit top—creating the first loose, collarless pullover sweatshirt.
The sweatshirt was initially designed as a garment for workers to wear while working in factories or other manual labor jobs.
The sweatshirt was made of heavy cotton fabric and intended to absorb the wearer’s sweat. The garment became popular among athletes in the early 20th century. Athletes wore sweatshirts during warm-ups and training sessions. Students also wore them while participating in sports.
The popularity of the sweatshirt as a fashion item began in the 1980s. Celebrities and fashion designers started wearing sweatshirts as casual wear. The sweatshirt became a popular item of clothing for both men and women. Today, the sweatshirt is a staple in many people’s wardrobes.
Adoption in the United States
The sweatshirt became popular in the United States in the 1920s when colleges started adopting them as part of their athletic uniforms. The style caught on with the general public by the 1930s, and sweatshirts were being worn by both men and women.
Use by World War II Soldiers
During World War II, soldiers wore sweatshirts under their uniforms to keep warm. The style became popular among civilians after the war. By the 1950s, sweatshirts were a staple in many people’s wardrobes, appearing in movies, TV shows, and on the backs of celebrities.
Rise as a Fashion Item
The sweatshirt became a fashion style in the 1980s when celebrities and fashion designers began wearing it casually. Today, the sweatshirt remains a wardrobe staple for people of all ages.
Modern Materials
Sweatshirts are now made from a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and wool. Cotton sweatshirts typically weigh between 280 and 400 GSM (grams per square meter). They come in various colors and styles and can be worn for casual and formal occasions.
How the Sweatshirt Got Its Name
The word became common in the 1930s when sportswear companies began producing clothing for athletes to wear while working out. The first known instance of the word “sweatshirt” appeared in 1926, in an article in the Spokane Daily Chronicle.
The first sweatshirts were shirts with long sleeves and a crew neck, made of heavyweight cotton jersey fabric. They were typically undyed and unadorned, though some early versions had stripes or other patterns. The sweatshirt became popular as casual wear in the 1950s, partly due to its association with the then-new phenomenon of teenage culture.
James Dean was often photographed wearing a sweatshirt, and the style became synonymous with rebellious youth.
Sweatshirts began to be produced in a variety of colors and styles in the 1960s. By the 1970s, the garment had become a fashion staple and was made in a wide range of materials, including polyester, wool, and even cashmere.
Today, the sweatshirt is a wardrobe essential for people of all ages and can be found in a seemingly endless variety of designs.
Sweatshirt Timeline: Key Milestones
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1920 | Benjamin Russell Jr. invents the first sweatshirt at the Russell Manufacturing Company |
| 1926 | First known use of the word “sweatshirt” in print (Spokane Daily Chronicle) |
| 1930s | Word “sweatshirt” becomes common; sportswear companies produce them for athletes |
| 1940s | Sweatshirts worn by WWII soldiers under uniforms for warmth |
| 1950s | Garment becomes mainstream fashion, popularized by teenage culture and James Dean |
| 1980s | Sweatshirt becomes a major fashion item via celebrities and designers |
| Present | Wardrobe staple available in cotton, polyester, wool, and luxury fibers |
See Also: Why Are Boyfriend Jeans Called That?
Why We Wear Sweatshirts Today
Sweatshirts have become a wardrobe staple for many people. They offer comfort, versatility, and style for people of all ages.
There are several reasons for the sweatshirt’s enduring popularity. First, they are comfortable. They are made of soft fabric like cotton or fleece and provide warmth without restriction. They are also easy to wear—no matching required. They function in all kinds of weather.
Another reason for their popularity is versatility. You can dress them up or down depending on the occasion. Pair them with jeans and sneakers for a casual day, or with a skirt and heels for a night out.
Sweatshirts are comfortable, easy to wear, and versatile. These qualities explain their widespread appeal.
The Versatility of a Sweatshirt
There are few articles of clothing as versatile as the humble sweatshirt. Whether wearing it to the gym, on a hike, or running errands, a sweatshirt is perfect for comfort and style. With so many different styles and designs available, it is easy to find one that suits any taste.
Here are several ways to wear a sweatshirt:
With Jeans and Sneakers
This classic look is perfect for running errands or hanging out with friends. The key is choosing a sweatshirt that fits well and is in a neutral color like black, grey, or white.
With Leggings
If heading to the gym or going for a run, a sweatshirt and leggings is the ideal outfit. Again, choose a sweatshirt that fits well and is in a neutral color.
Under a Jacket
A sweatshirt is the perfect layering piece for cooler weather. Throw on a denim or bomber jacket for a stylish and comfortable look.
With a Skirt
This is a great way to dress up a sweatshirt and give it a more feminine look. Pair it with denim or a pleated skirt for a cute and casual outfit.
With Shorts
This is an excellent option for warmer weather. Choose a pair of shorts in a complementary color to the sweatshirt.
There are endless ways to style a sweatshirt, so get creative and experiment with different looks. With so many options available, everyone can find a sweatshirt they love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sweatshirts meant for?
Sweatshirts are meant to keep you warm. They are usually made of soft fabric like cotton or fleece. You can wear them in all kinds of weather, which is excellent.
Can sweatshirt be worn in summer?
Yes, sweatshirts can be worn in summer. Just make sure to choose a lightweight fabric like cotton, so you don’t get too hot. You can wear sleeveless shorts and snicker.
Do sweatshirts shrink?
Yes, most sweatshirts will shrink if you wash them in hot water or put them in the dryer. To avoid shrinking, wash them in cold water and air dry them.
What is the best way to wash a sweatshirt?
The best way to wash a sweatshirt is in cold water and air dries it. This will help prevent shrinking. You can also machine wash on the gentle cycle if you’re in a hurry.
What is the origin of the name for different types of clothing?
The reason for tank top‘s name originates from its resemblance to the shape of a tank’s upper half. Similarly, the hoodie got its name from the hooded design. And the polo shirt was named after the sport of polo, where players first wore this type of shirt.
Final Words
The sweatshirt earned its name from its original function of absorbing sweat during physical activity. The name dates to the early 1900s, with the first documented use in 1926. Over time, the garment evolved from athletic wear to a wardrobe essential for people of all ages and backgrounds.
References
- Encyclopedia of Alabama. (n.d.). Benjamin C. Russell. Encyclopedia of Alabama.
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). Sweatshirt. Wikipedia.
