Born out of Upstate New York as uniform for factory workers, who knew the humble hoodie would one day make its way into the collections of high fashion houses and luxury brands season after season?
Eschewing its workwear reputation, it became sports kit for Ivy League universities, before being adopted by the likes of rappers, skaters and youth culture across the board. The hooded sweatshirt has become a womenswear staple that’s here to stay - and with good reason. The moment you pull on a hoodie, you’ll feel embraced in warm, snuggly goodness - plus you won’t be compromising on style either.
Especially good for tricky transitional dressing, a hoodie beneath a light jacket is perfect when there’s a nip in the air - and will even protect you when there’s a chance of showers. Worn tucked into some boyfriend jeans with a boxy blazer or oversized trench, you’ll achieve an off-duty-celeb look - not forgetting your sunglasses and baseball cap, naturally.
Whether it’s an embroidered logo or a boxy fit, the best styles have design details that will make you look twice - and those crafted using fleece-backed jersey offer ultimate cosiness. If you’re between sizes, we’d recommend sizing up because there’s nothing worse than feeling restricted when you’re feeling the laid-back vibe.
From a sportswear-inspired number by Nike to Christopher Kane’s design that’s intended to spread joy, we’ve rounded up the best below.
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Sporty & Rich Brand-print cotton-blend hoody
A label we’re sure needs no introduction, you’ll have spotted hypey Paris-based Sporty & Rich gracing your Instagram feed on one influencer or another.
Borne out of an IG account which was essentially an aesthetic founder Emily Oberg curated, it offers a range of preppy athleisure that you’ll never want to take off - and we’re in love with this classic grey hoodie.
Buy now £1300.00, Selfridges
Axel Arigato Script A Hoodie
Known primarily for trainers, the lesser-known side of Axel Arigato’s brand is its strong collection of ready-to-wear for both men and women. Based in Sweden, it’s no wonder its collections have a minimal aesthetic througout.
Staying true to its Scandi-origins, this hoodie is a minimal design that features a miniature A in the brand’s script font as well as a patch kangaroo pocket. Better yet, it’s crafted using organic cotton for a more responsibly minded purchase.
Buy now £170.00, Axel Arigato
Pangaia Signature Hoodie - Neutral Tones
One of the sustainable brand’s signature styles that put them firmly in the spotlight, Pangaia’s hoodies are coveted by fashion editors and celebs alike.
Each of its garments features the trademark script that details the textiles used - and this hoodie is no exception, which is crafted from recycled and organic cotton. Pair with the matching track pants for the full loungwear look.
Buy now £150.00, Pangaia
Christopher Kane More Joy Hoodie
British fashion designer Christopher Kane’s diffusion line, More Joy, creates collections that are playful and fun, sparking, you guessed it... More Joy. This hoodie is sure to make you smile each and every time you wear it.
Buy now £95.00, Christopher Kane
Fiorucci Angels Hoodie White
It’s time to spread your wings and invest in Fiorucci’s iconic hoodie that is boldly featuring the London-based brand’s Angels archive graphic. It comes complete with an adjustable drawstring and has a retro 90s nostalgia.
Buy now £150.00, Fiorucci
Samsøe Samsøe Norsbro hoodie 11720
Scandinavian simplicity is Copenhagen-based Samsøe Samsøe’s MO - as proven by this hoodie. Featuring a simple logo printed on the chest, its brush-backed jersey fabric means it’s a cosy one for chillier days. It’s actually in the men’s section, so you might want to size down if you prefer a snug fit.
Buy now £130.00, Samsøe Samsøe
Woodwood Jenn stacked logo hoodie
For those out there who are partial to a pop of colour, it’s Woodwood’s Jenn hoodie that should be going straight in your basket. The label’s double A stamp is printed on both the front and back, so you’ll be looking good from all angles.
Buy now £130.00, Woodwood
Nike Sportswear Women’s Oversized Fleece Pullover Hoodie
Throwing it back to the hoodie’s athletic roots, Nike’s burgundy design is equal parts stylish and comfy. It’s cut to an oversized silhouette with a dropped shoulder and ultra-fluffy feel on the inside.
Whether you’re looking to hunker down on the sofa on a Sunday or wear it tucked into jeans with a blazer on top, it’s a hoodie that does it all.
Buy now £43.97, Nike
