UNDERGARMENT, MALE
c. 1920 - 1939Man`s combination undergarment in one piece. Machine made, medium size.
White cotton with stretch fabric shoulder straps and waist inserts.
Front and rear openings with button fastenings.
Button placlet to front with mother of pearl buttons. One button placket opening to rear.
Details
Details
Around the middle of the 19th century, a new undergarment for men that combined or united two pieces of underwear (undershirts & drawers) into one became fashionable. It was a closer fitting, less bulky garment to wear.
In Australia and the UK it was known at the combination suit. In America it was called the union suit.
There were various styles. One had a full-length button front, long legs and arms and was made from wool or flannel for use during cold winters. A later style was more “athletic” and suited to warmer climates. It was sleeveless with short legs and made of lighter weight cotton.
This style remained in common use until Y-front briefs and boxers were introduced in the mid-1930s.
