A classic reproduction of the simple white T-shirt worn by American servicemen during the Second World War and particularly associated with the U.S. Navy “skivvy shirt.”

Unlike most modern T-shirts, this model is manufactured from relatively lightweight cotton and features the characteristic short sleeves and visible overlocked seams associated with 1940s military undershirts. The dull white/off-white colour gives the shirt an authentic vintage appearance.

The white cotton undershirt was a practical piece of clothing aboard U.S. Navy vessels and could be worn underneath working uniforms such as denim dungarees. Period photographs also show sailors wearing these shirts on their own while working, training or relaxing.

An excellent basic garment for a WW2 U.S. Navy, USAAF, U.S. Army or USMC living-history impression, and particularly suitable for wearing with U.S. Navy denim trousers, deck jeans and other 1940s clothing.

Please note: this reproduction carries the historic numerical 1 to 5 sizing system in the neck, based on the USMC-style sizing used for this reproduction.

Historical Context 

During the first half of the twentieth century, the T-shirt evolved from simple underwear into a familiar part of American military clothing.

Within the U.S. Navy, the cotton undershirt became informally known as the “skivvy shirt.” Cotton skivvy shirts were widely used during and immediately after the Second World War, becoming such a common naval clothing item that shortages were reported within the Navy supply system.

Period photographs regularly show U.S. sailors wearing simple white or off-white T-shirts, particularly together with the familiar blue denim dungaree working uniform. Their practical design allowed them to be worn either underneath other clothing or as a lightweight working garment.

The relatively fitted cut, shorter sleeves and lightweight cotton construction distinguish the 1940s style from many modern T-shirts.

Specifications

• 1940s style reproduction

• Suitable for WW2 U.S. Navy living history and re-enactment

• Classic American military skivvy style

• White / dull off-white colour

• Vintage-style short sleeves

• Period-style fitted cut

• Not a modern loose or oversized fit

• Visible overlocked seams

• Lightweight construction compared with many modern T-shirts

• Numerical neck sizing from 1 to 5

• Size 1: approx. 38 inch chest

• Size 2: approx. 40 inch chest

• Size 3: approx. 42 inch chest

• Size 4: approx. 44 inch chest

• Size 5: approx. 46 inch chest

• Suitable as an undershirt or worn on its own

• Material: 100% cotton