Hemdjes

Hemdjes is a Dutch term used for small shirts that are typically worn as underwear or sleepwear. The word is a diminutive form of hemd, meaning shirt. Hemdjes can refer to different types of garments, including women’s camisoles or undershirts and children’s or babies’ soft shirts. They are commonly worn as an extra layer under blouses or knitwear, or on their own as light sleepwear.

Types and varieties vary by gender and age. Women’s hemdjes are often sleeveless or short-sleeved camisoles, sometimes featuring lace, decorative trim, or sheer fabrics. Men’s hemdjes generally denote simple cotton undershirts. For children and babies, versions are sized to fit and are designed to be soft against the skin. Styles range from plain, functional undershirts to more decorative camisoles used as lingerie.

Materials commonly used for hemdjes include cotton and cotton blends, with alternates such as modal, viscose, or synthetic microfibre. Fabrics are typically chosen for breathability and comfort, especially for undergarments and sleepwear. Construction focuses on flat seams and smooth finishes to minimize irritation.

Care and handling are similar to other underwear garments. Hemdjes are usually machine washable, and care instructions depend on fabric composition; cotton variants may shrink if washed at high temperatures. It is common to wash with similar colors and avoid harsh detergents that can irritate sensitive skin.

In Dutch-speaking regions, hemdjes are a familiar element of everyday underwear for all ages, and the term also appears in fashion to describe lingerie-style camisoles. See also: underwear, camisole, undershirt.