The Evolution of Undergarments: The History of Boxer Shorts
Underwear has been an essential item of clothing for centuries, with its primary function being to provide comfort and support. Men’s undergarments, specifically, have evolved significantly over the years. One such evolution was the creation of boxer shorts. In this article, we delve into the history of boxer shorts, tracing their origins to the present day.
The Birth of Boxer Shorts
In the early 20th century, men’s underwear consisted primarily of a one-piece “union suit.” This uniform styled undergarment was not ideal for everyday wear as it was cumbersome and to wear and access during bathroom breaks. Enter Jacob Golomb, a Russian-Jewish immigrant, who in 1925, invented the first-ever pair of loose-fitting shorts called “boxer shorts.” Golomb came up with the idea when he noticed that athletes in his area wore shorts with an elastic band that provided them the flexibility they needed while performing.
Boxer Shorts Gain Popularity
Initial sales of boxer shorts were slow. Still, they began to gain popularity in the United States in the 1930s, thanks in large part to the release of the film, “It Happened One Night.” In the movie, Clark Gable stripped down to his shirt and boxers, and a fashion trend was born. The underwear trend took off as soldiers in World War II adopted boxer shorts as their uniform undergarment. The comfort and freedom of movement that boxer shorts provided during wartime made them irresistible post-war as soldiers went back to civilian life.
The Rise of Boxer Briefs
In the 80s and 90s, a new trend emerged in men’s underwear – the boxer brief. Boxer briefs combine the best of both worlds, offering the support of briefs and the coverage of boxer shorts. The popularity of boxer briefs soared, and many mills and brands set to work developing unique styles, patterns, and fabrics to differentiate their product from competitors.
The Future of Boxer Shorts
Today, boxer shorts continue to be a popular choice for men’s underwear, especially among those who value freedom of movement above all else. Some designers have gone so far as to meld the traditional and modern by creating boxer shorts packed with technological innovations like moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics. As long as there are men, there will always be boxer shorts, a testament to the enduring nature of this essential item of clothing.
