An undershirt is an article of underwear worn underneath a shirt. This is to protect dress shirts from sweat and smells. It also makes dress shirts less transparent. The term most commonly refers to upper-body wear worn by males.

Factory mass produced undershirts became common in the West in the early 20th century, with innovations turning the union suit into two pieces, for upper and lower body.

By the late 20th century, some of these garments originally intended to be worn under other clothing came to be worn as the sole top garment while their use as an undergarment became rare and unusual.

Types of undershirts

• A-shirt
• T-shirt

See also

• Camisole
• Chemise
• Halterneck
• Sleeveless shirt