Hoodies are the evergreen trend we can’t seem to get enough of. It might come as a surprise to you but the history of hoodies dates back to medieval Europe where hooded robes were commonly worn by priests (cowls) and outdoor workers (chaperons) to protect them from harsh weather.
Fast forward to the 1930’s, the first ever hoodie came into being. Introduced by the US brand, Champion, hoodies were modified by sewing in a hood to regular sweatshirts. Sole purpose of these garments was to keep workers and athletes warm during bitter New York winters. Soon enough, hoodies reached high schools and universities as sportswear for football and track athletes. Didn’t take long for this athletic wear item to become the new fashion statement.
The 1970s brought hip-hop culture and hoodies started to gain increasing popularity since they were being used by graffiti artists to keep a low profile and by hip hop dancers to stay warm. Norma Kamali was among the first designers to embrace the new clothing, followed by brands like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger to include hoodies in their sportswear collections. However, it was not until the release of the cult film ‘Rocky’ in 1976, that these hooded sweatshirts gained the iconic status they have today.
These hooded garments started getting associated with some negative connotations because of their use in pop cultures and by people in the spotlight because of the controversies, trying to hide their identity. Much later in 2005, the term “hoodie” was officially used as a result of “the hoodie ban” by Bluewater Shopping Center in Kent (UK), restricting visitors from wearing hoodies. Previously, hoodies were simply referred to as “hooded sweatshirts”.
To this date hoodies remain in trend for being comfortable yet stylish. Although they do not depict any rebellion or cultural movement, it’s interesting to know the journey of this wardrobe essential.
