Date: c. 1950s
Origin: United States
Fabric: Cotton
Brand: Hanes
HanesBrands is the world’s largest manufacturer of basic apparel, famous for their underwear for women, men, and children, plus their t-shirts, sweatshirts, and activewear. Founded in 1901, Hanes has a long history of innovation, illustrated perfectly by these men’s boxer shorts from c.1950. An advert from 1949 (in LIFE magazine, 27 June) for Hanes GIVVIES stated:
‘You won’t get the “creeps” with the New Hanes GIVVIES. These shorts don’t ride up! They’re bias-cut! Yes, sir… you’re always “at ease” in Hanes GIVVIES Shorts (pronounced “give ease”). Cut diagonal to the weave of the cloth, they’ll stretch when you stoop or sit – give with your stride. The seat is seamless – and roomy.’
These blue striped cotton boxer shorts feature a bias-cut single piece seat panel, waistband with elasticated sides, and a flat triangular front panel with three press studs to fasten.
From the collection of Lorraine Smith
