Illinois 00 1950 (Illinois) (Road Sign) T-Shirt: Design Overview
This T-shirt design replicates a vintage Illinois state highway sign from approximately 1950, a significant era in the state's road system modernization. The artwork directly emulates the visual characteristics of these historical markers, offering a striking homage to the past.
Sign Design & Representation
The central element of the design is the iconic pentagon-shaped shield, a form synonymous with Illinois state routes from the 1920s through the mid-20th century. This specific design highlights “Illinois 00,” referencing a common example used in maps and manuals, rather than an actual route. The clean lines and bold typography encapsulate the mid-century modern aesthetic prevalent in highway signage of the time.
Color Palette and Typography
The color scheme adheres to the standard employed on these vintage signs. A crisp white background provides a stark contrast to the black text, ensuring maximum legibility. The word "ILLINOIS" is positioned at the top of the pentagon, while the numerical designation “00” is centered below. The choice of a classic, legible font reinforces the vintage aesthetic, and the overall effect is both nostalgic and graphic.
Meaning and Symbolism
The design is a direct representation of Illinois' history of road infrastructure and an important aspect of automotive history in the United States. The “00” designation as used in signage manuals and examples, further offers an opportunity to showcase the design language of these historical signage plans. This T-shirt design speaks to collectors and historians of road signage, and anyone with a love for the aesthetics of the mid-20th century, with a specific focus on the simplicity and effectiveness of its design.
Unisex Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
A reliable classic cotton tee built for comfort, durability, and style. This unisex heavy cotton shirt is the perfect everyday staple — soft, structured, and designed to make printed designs look sharp and vibrant.
Product Highlights
- 100% heavy cotton fabric for structure and comfort
- Smooth surface ensures vivid, long-lasting prints
- No side seams for irritation-free wear
- Reinforced shoulders to maintain shape over time
- Classic unisex fit — works for all body types
Fit & Style Notes
Designed with versatility in mind, this tee works as your everyday go-to. Wear it true-to-size for a classic fit, or size up for a relaxed, modern drape. The mid-weight cotton balances softness and structure, making it equally great for layering or wearing on its own.
Style it with jeans, joggers, or skirts — its timeless silhouette makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for personal wear, printing, branding, or merch drops.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a t-shirt you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18.00 | 28.00 | 15.10 |
| M | 20.00 | 29.00 | 16.50 |
| L | 22.00 | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| XL | 24.00 | 31.00 | 19.50 |
| 2XL | 26.00 | 32.00 | 21.00 |
| 3XL | 28.00 | 33.00 | 22.40 |
| 4XL | 30.00 | 34.00 | 23.70 |
| 5XL | 32.00 | 35.00 | 25.00 |
Tip: Compare these measurements with your favorite tee for the best fit.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not iron directly on printed designs
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
