Although the name seems obvious once you know the answer, the history of the T-shirt is more interesting. Early versions were commonly worn as undergarments, providing a comfortable layer beneath heavier clothing. They were especially practical because they were lightweight, easy to wash, and relatively inexpensive.
T-shirts also became popular among workers and members of the military because of their simple and practical design. They were comfortable during physical activity and could be worn underneath uniforms or other clothing. Over time, people began wearing them on their own rather than treating them only as underwear.
As casual clothing became more widely accepted, the T-shirt transformed into an everyday wardrobe essential. Its simple design made it suitable for almost everyone, from children and teenagers to adults. It could also easily be produced in different colors, fabrics, sizes, and styles.