Key Takeaways
The sweatshirt is a garment from the United States, originally worn by athletes. The term sweat-shirt comes from the English "sweat" for sweat and "shirt" for shirt. This comfortable garment quickly became popular around the world. The sweatshirt has become a must-have for fashion and a strong symbol of identity expression.
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Origin of the term "sweat-shirt"
The term sweatshirt comes from English. It is composed of two words:
- Sweat which means "sweat" in English
- Shirt which means "shirt"
Originally, the sweatshirt was therefore a "sweat shirt", a comfortable and absorbent garment designed for playing sport.
The term sweatshirt first appeared in the 1920s in the United States. It then designated the cotton sweaters worn by athletes in training.
Also read: What is the difference between a sweatshirt and a hoodie ?
The pronunciation of the word "sweat-shirt"
In French, we pronounce "sweat-shirt" in English:
- [swɛt.ʃɜ:t]
The stress is on the first syllable "sweat".
Unlike "t-shirt" which became French as [ti.ʃiʀ], sweat-shirt has kept its original pronunciation.
The sweatshirt: originally a piece of sports clothing
The sweatshirt was born in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. At this time, American universities began to develop student sports.
American football, basketball and track and field teams need comfortable and absorbent equipment for training.
In 1920, the Russell Athletic brand created the first sweatshirt specifically designed for university sports. It is made of cotton fleece, with side pockets and ribbed cuffs.
Quickly, the sweatshirt became the official equipment of sportsmen of the time. It is adopted by football players, boxers and athletes to warm up before a competition.
Also read: How to know if your sweatshirt is too small ?
The invention of the hoodie
In the 1930s, the American company Champion invented the hooded sweatshirt.
Intended for workers working in cold warehouses, this innovative model provides additional protection against the cold.
The hood allows you to cover your head to keep warm, while having your hands free to work.
This invention will revolutionize the world of sweatshirts. The hooded sweatshirt or hoodie is a dazzling success. It is quickly becoming the most popular model.
At The Oversized Hoodie®, we believe that the sweatshirt is much more than just a piece of clothing: it is an everyday companion that brings you comfort and well-being. We strive to create unique sweatshirts that combine style, ethics and sustainability.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
The different shapes of sweatshirts
The sweatshirt is available in different shapes, sizes and styles, offering consumers a wide choice.
- We first distinguish the classic sweatshirt, with long sleeves and round neck. This is the most basic and traditional form of the sweatshirt. Some have pockets on the front for greater practicality.
- The hooded sweatshirt (often called hoodie in English) is a very popular variation of the sweatshirt, sporting a large hood to protect yourself from the rain and the cold. The hood adds a casual, sportswear side to this garment.
- There are also sweatshirts without sleeves, perfect for the warm seasons. They are then considered as substitutes for classic t-shirts.
- We also find oversized or oversized cut sweatshirts, much larger than the usual size, giving an assertive streetwear style. Conversely, tight-fitting sweatshirts hug the silhouette.
Also read: 10 Effective Techniques to Shorten a Too Long Sweater Without Cutting It
The evolution of the sweatshirt through the years
The years 1980-1990
- The sweatshirt is essential in hip hop and streetwear cultures
- oversized and personalized sweatshirts are very popular
- The hoodie is worn by rappers and hip hop dancers
The 1990s
- The loose sweatshirt becomes the uniform grunge
- Groups like Nirvana in faded vintage sweatshirts
The 2000s
- Return of the tight-fitting sweatshirt in cotton or microfibers
- Logos of sport brands such as Adidas or Nike
Today
- The oversized sweat shirt is very fashionable
- Fashion piece adopted by streetwear icons
The sweatshirt as a cultural symbol
- Adopted in the 1970s-80s by the emerging hip hop culture
- Sweatshirts oversized and hooded symbols of grunge from the 1990s
- The wide, basic sweatshirt in the streetwear style inspired by skate and hip hop
The materials used for the sweatshirt
cotton remains by far the queen material for making sweatshirts. Comfortable and breathable, it feels pleasant on the skin.
polyester has also established itself in recent years, bringing shine, elasticity and ease of maintenance to certain models.
For winter, opt for a sweatshirt in wool or fleece, thicker and warmer.
The sweatshirt in contemporary fashion
The sweatshirt continues to be very present in current fashion, adopted by icons and creators.
Luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga are reinterpreting the classic sweatshirt in glamorous versions. High-end streetwear gives pride of place to hoodies and oversized sweatshirts.
influencers and celebrities sport casual sweatshirts and trendy hoodies on social media. comfort comes first!
How is the sweatshirt perceived in France ?
The sweatshirt arrived in France after the Second World War. At first, it was seen as exotic sportswear from the United States.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the sweatshirt began to spread outside the sports fields, adopted by young people attracted by the casual American style.
But it was not until the 1980s that the sweatshirt was fully accepted in France as casual clothing. It then becomes a staple for high school students and students.
Today, the sweatshirt is a casual item of clothing worn by all generations. It has even become a fashion piece in its own right.
Also read: What is the difference between Sweatshirt and Sweater ?
The Future of the Sweatshirt
The sweatshirt still has a bright future ahead of it and its popularity continues. Designers compete in inventiveness to reinterpret this basic in versions that are ever more in tune with the times. The hoodie and oversized sweatshirt still have a bright future ahead of them in streetwear and urban culture.
Our mission is to (re)discover all the facets of the sweatshirt to our customers. We want to share its rich history and show that it can be both casual and elegant. The sweatshirt is timeless and we will continue to adapt it to everyone's desires!
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Conclusion
The sweatshirt has established itself as an essential everyday item of clothing, all styles combined. Its exceptional longevity is explained by its optimal comfort and its ability to adapt to the desires of each era. It will accompany young and old in their everyday lives for a long time to come!
| Appearance | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States, early 20th century |
| Materials | Cotton, Polyester, Wool |
| Types | Classic, Hoodie, Oversized, Fitted |
| Evolution | Contemporary fashion sportswear |
| Popularity | Adopted by all generations, fashion icons, and luxury brands |
| Perception in France | From sportswear to casual fashion pieces |
| Future Trends | Will continue to evolve with innovative creations |
| Comfort | Comfortable, casual, versatile |
FAQ
What is a sweatshirt ?
The sweatshirt or sweatshirt is a casual, long-sleeved garment, most often made of cotton, with or without a hood. It is recognizable by its fleece interior providing warmth and comfort.
How do you say sweatshirt in French ?
In French, we use the term “sweatshirt” which comes directly from English. It is often abbreviated to “sweatshirt”. The “hoodie” refers more precisely to the hooded sweatshirt.
What is the difference between a t-shirt and a sweatshirt ?
The t-shirt is a light, short-sleeved garment in cotton, while the sweatshirt has long sleeves, a high collar, a thick, soft material (fleece cotton) and sometimes a hood.
Who invented the sweatshirt ?
The sweatshirt was invented in 1920 by the American brand Russell Athletic. It was originally intended as sweat-absorbent sportswear.
Why do we say t-shirt ?
The origin of the term “tee-shirt” comes from its “T” shape. It originally designated the undershirts worn under the uniforms of American soldiers.
