There had been many different, comparable kinds of undershirts earlier than crew neck tees, but most varieties have been sleeveless or funny fishing shirt singlets. T-shirts gained their name because they seem like the letter “T” when laid flat. A crew neck is a variation of the classic t-shirt which has a spherical, collarless neckline. Although there are many other type t-shirts, crew necks have been around for over a century, sustaining a traditional and easy style.