The 1980's T-shirt Gets Japanese Influence
The 1980's t-shirt, popular with US Punks, is torn up and black. Students are
not so concerned with political protests and embrace designer labels.
The tank top or dress singlet (as it is known in Australia)
appears and is regarded as acceptable public dress for both men and women. The
muscle shirt and belly shirt for men and the halter neck for women, were popular
casual apparel.
Belly Shirt - A 1980's T-shirt?
The belly shirt, a temporary fad, was based on football jerseys being cut above
the midriff. Some apparel manufactures caught on and ready made belly t-shirts
became available. These t-shirts were very short and left a large area of a mans
belly (and belly button) exposed. They were virtually gone by the end of the
decade.
One thing that can be said with utmost certainty is that had the
tank top or belly shirt been introduced as outer wear prior to the 1960's, it
would have been rejected as immoral.
The Hypercolour T-shirt
One 1980's t-shirt invention is the global hypercolour t-shirt or as it was
known in the US, Generra Hypercolor. This t-shirt contained a temperature
sensitive pigment that changed colour when either cold or warm. Whoopee do!
It didn’t last long, from the late 1980's to early 1990's. The
fact that it changed color under the armpit when you became warm in that part of
the anatomy might have had something to do with its demise.
It was popular with young teens, for a while. A short while if
my memory serves me correctly. Matsui Shikiso Chemical of Japan made the pigment
used for the manufacture of this 1980's t-shirt.
Japanese Designers and the Unisex T-shirt
Japanese designers
also had a big influence on the t-shirt industry when they designed an oversize
one based on the kimono. Hence the unisex t-shirt was introduced to fashion. A
very large proportion of t-shirts manufactured today are the unisex style.
If I recall correctly the British fashion designer Katherine
Hamnett's oversize t-shirts promoting peace and the environment had some
influence during this period too.
One of the most noticeable things for the humble t-shirt during
this decade was Armani wearing his t-shirt under his suit jacket. Alas the
t-shirt rose to new heights.
The Long Sleeve and The Big Johnson T-shirts
The mid 1980's and the long sleeve t-shirt is worn under a short sleeve t-shirt which becomes fashionable
during the cooler months. Actually, I personally like this look.
And while the rest of the world may say “what’s that”?
Americans may remember the Big Johnson, a line of humorous t-shirts still in
production.
And the wet
t-shirt contest is still a favourite.
Continue
on to the 1990's T-shirt History Page.
 |
| Featured products |
|
See details
|
Imagine how wonderful you will look and feel in your Pepperlibido women's v neck top. Designed for your comfort with maximum movement , plus a slim look and nice fit around your breasts and shoulders. With the natural softness and comfort of quality cotton you will find Pepperlibido tops pleasura...
Market price:
AUD 39.99
Our price: AUD 19.99 save 50%
|
|
|
See details
|
Pepperlibido Polo Shirts 45% polyester/55% high quality Australian cotton. The smooth even fit of Pepperlibido polos will have you looking great – they are designed for maximum movement and comfort. Using the latest technology the embroidery of the logo is incredibly good.
Market price:
AUD 45.99
Our price: AUD 25.99 save 43%
|
|
|
Return to the 1970's t-shirt page.
Go
from the 1980's t-shirt page to t-shirt history page.
Go
from the 1980's t-shirt page to Pepperlibido-tshirts-and-tops home page.
| 
