Definition of the word dress shirt

The term "dress shirt" has its origins in the late 19th century when formal attire for men was more elaborate than it is today. Back then, women's fashion dictated that men wear a three-piece suit consisting of a jacket, waistcoat, and trousers, with a button-up shirt worn underneath. As men's fashion evolved, the waistcoat and jacket became less integral to the overall look, and the dress shirt, with its spread collar and sleeves that were long enough to be rolled up or cuffed, became the new standard for formal occasions. The dress shirt's pristine appearance was essential for presenting a polished and professional image. The dress shirt was traditionally made of high-quality materials like cotton, linen, or silk, and it was often stiffly starched to create a crisp and immaculate look. Over time, dress shirts have adapted to meet modern demands for function and style, with new materials, collars, and buttons, but the term itself has stuck around, reminding us of their place in men's formalwear history. In summary, the term "dress shirt" originated during the Victorian era when men's formal attire grew less complex, and the dress shirt replaced the waistcoat and jacket as the go-to shirt for refined occasions.