Like any other invention, the undergarment was not designed to protect the body from sweat or stains or to even add another layer. The purpose of the undergarment was to safeguard the outer layer from being in contact with the body. 

With rough and itchy silhouettes in the picture, undergarments protected the skin from the scratchy fabrics. 

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This obviously came with privilege, the working class was lucky to get their hands on even two shirts for their work shifts. 

Here are some tried and tested advantages of wearing an undershirt:

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1. If sweating profusely is a problem for you, and your shirts usually show, wearing an undershirt will help you.

2. With stiff and rough shirts that are harsh for the skin, undershirts help avoid chafed and irritated skin, and if worn correctly, it won't be visible.

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3. If you feel cold and would prefer an extra layer to stay warmer, an undershirt might help.

4. Undershirts also keep chest hair from poking through the surface of the shirt and save you from embarrassing situations.

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5. Without an undershirt, your shirts will get deodorant stains easily, which is less likely if you're wearing a 'baniyan' because then you have an added layer that protects you.

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