Very few fashion evolutions have been as remarkable as the 'hoodie'. From its humble inception in Medieval Europe to its highly influential presence in today's fashion arena, the hoodie has undoubtedly become a statement piece and a style icon! When looking back at the hoodie's past, with its roots in fashion and sport, it's easy to understand why it has morphed into an essential clothing item.
To give you a better idea of just how far this garment has come, we break down the evolution of the hoodie, including how to style yours!
The 12th Century Hooded Garment
Did you know the first 'hooded garment' dates way back to Medieval Europe? Yes, you read that right. Medieval monks were among the first people to wear 'hooded tunics' also known as "chaperon” and is believed to have been imported to England in the 12th Century during the Normandy Conquest. The word "hood" originates from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" and draws its meaning from the root of 'hat.'
The First Hooded Sweatshirt
The US company Champion was founded in 1919 and, by the 1930s, had created the first hooded sweatshirt. Once Champion developed methods for sewing thicker materials, they turned to making sweatshirts, with the hoods being added to the sweatshirts to keep the cold at bay during bitter winters in upstate New York. Subsequently, the Champion brand supplied sports kits that included sweatshirts to the US Military for physical education classes and training exercises.
The Hoodie Gains Blockbuster Notoriety
In 1976 the release of the sports drama blockbuster movie "Rocky", the hoodie gained blockbuster notoriety and was instantly catapulted to icon status. The film follows Rocky Balboa (portrayed by Sylvester Stallone) and tells the rags-to-riches story of a determined boxer to succeed against the odds and become the next world heavyweight champion. Since the Rocky movie in the late 1970s, the hoodie has become an iconic symbol of perseverance and iconic determination.
The Term "Hoodie" Is Coined
The term "hoodie' was first coined in the 1990s and has since gone on to become hugely popular in street, sports, and lifestyle wear.
Now that we've covered some f the hoodie's iconic history, here are a five ways to style your hoodie to best suit your unique aesthetic!
Five Unique Hoodie Styling Tips
Wearing a hoodie and styling a hoodie are two entirely different things. Join Side Step as we help you style your hoodie to match your unique style a personality.
- With winter swiftly approaching, it makes sense to wear your hoodie as the centrepiece of your outfit. The adidas Originals Essentials Hoodie for Men in Wonder Taupe is the perfect centrepiece hoodie with a popping colour and snug fit cut. Whether you're running errands or lounging at home, the adidas Originals Essentials Hoodie has got you covered with its convenient kangaroo pocket and comfortable cuffed sleeves. Pair this hoodie with the Voltage Denim Cut Lines Slim Fit Jeans for Men in Mid Blue, and you'll stay cosy and stylish all day long.
- The Nike Sportswear Club BB Graphics Hoodie for Men in Black is a stylish but functional addition to your fit. This black hoodie is the epitome of classic style and is perfectly paired with the Nike Sportswear Club Fleece BB Joggers for Men in Black. Accessorise your look with the Nike Sportswear Fisherman Beanie in Black and hit the streets like the stylish icon you are!
- The Champion Hooded Sweatshirt for Men in Bold Black is the hooded sweatshirt credited with starting the 'hoodie craze.' Pair your Champion hoodie with the Champion Cargo Pants for Men in Black and enjoy a versatile, durable look suitable for all types of activities.
- The Puma Classics RE: ESCAPE Relaxed Hoodie for Men in Deep Dive is made for maximum comfort with a relaxed fit. This hoodie features a kangaroo pocket and a drawcord hood for a stylish fit and relaxed convenience all day long. Pair your hoodie with the Puma RS Z Core Sneaker for Men in Black Blue and hit the streets looking like a well-prepared fashion icon!
- Add some colour to your fit with the Puma x SpongeBob Graphic Hoodie for Men in Violet. The Puma x SpongeBob Graphic Hoodie for men is designed with graphics from the beloved TV series SpongeBob SquarePants. This hoodie is made with cotton blends that keep you cosy and warm. Pair your hoodie with the Puma Future Rider x SpongeBob Sneaker for Men in Lucent Yellow. Why fit in when you were born to stand out in bright pops of colour!
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