When it comes to modern streetwear, few pieces have sparked as much hype as the Essentials hoodie. Minimalist yet effortlessly cool, this oversized pullover by Fear of God’s Essentials line has become the uniform of trendsetters everywhere—from Gen Z TikTokers to A-list celebs. Whether you’re lounging at home, grabbing coffee in London, or flying out of LAX in head-to-toe athleisure, the Essentials hoodie works across borders, genders, and cultures.
Let’s dive into why this hoodie is more than just “cosy wear”—it’s a cultural moment.
A Hoodie with Hype: Why Essentials Is Everywhere
The Essentials brand, founded by Jerry Lorenzo as part of his Fear of God empire, has carved out a sweet spot between high fashion and laid-back streetwear. The hoodie isn’t plastered with logos (just a small rubberised tag), but that’s exactly the point. It whispers luxury rather than shouting it.
In a world where fashion trends often burn bright and fade, Essentials has stayed relevant because it nails the trifecta: comfort, versatility, and cultural clout.
How Celebrities Made the Essentials Hoodie a Star
Like most streetwear icons, the hoodie’s rise was fuelled by celebrity endorsement. In the US, Travis Scott was spotted layering the oversized hoodie with cargo trousers and Jordans—a combo that instantly went viral on Instagram. Kanye West, the master of muted, oversized fits, has also been linked to the look, which helped cement Essentials as part of the American hip-hop fashion scene.
Meanwhile, across the pond, UK artists like Skepta and Stormzy have championed oversized silhouettes, often pairing neutral-toned hoodies with luxe trainers. Paparazzi snaps of Maya Jama running errands in an Essentials hoodie have also helped the piece cross over from streetwear purists to mainstream style lovers.
The Gen Z Factor: Why They’re Obsessed
Gen Z isn’t here for flashy monograms or fast-fashion fads—they crave authenticity, comfort, and unisex appeal. The Essentials hoodie checks every box.
- Oversized silhouettes? Perfect for that off-duty, gender-neutral vibe.
- Neutral palettes? Easy to mix and match without overthinking.
- Sustainability in style? Buying one high-quality hoodie that lasts beats five throwaway dupes.
On TikTok, the #EssentialsHoodie tag is filled with styling hacks—from wearing it with baggy denim and Air Forces to layering it under trench coats for a smarter street look. For Gen Z, the hoodie isn’t just clothing—it’s part of their aesthetic language.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: A Wardrobe Equaliser
One of the most refreshing aspects of the Essentials hoodie is that it doesn’t care about gender rules. It’s not “men’s” or “women’s”—it’s simply for everyone.
Girls love to style it with biker shorts and chunky trainers (hello, Hailey Bieber vibes). Guys throw it over cargos or sweats for a rugged streetwear fit. And honestly, anyone can rock it oversized with cycling shades and a tote bag for that “effortlessly cool” look.
Fashion is finally catching up to the reality that clothes don’t have to be gendered, and the Essentials hoodie is leading the charge.
UK Streetwear Scene: From London to Manchester
In the UK, the Essentials hoodie has become a go-to piece for city dwellers who thrive on that high-low mix of streetwear and designer touches.
- London: Expect to see it on Shoreditch streets paired with Dr. Martens and Burberry scarves. Selfridges regularly stocks the latest drops, and the hoodie sells out within hours.
- Manchester: The city’s love for oversized, comfy styles (paired with bold trainers) makes the Essentials hoodie a weekend uniform. END Clothing in Manchester is another hot spot where the drop queues are legendary.
UK celebs like Aitch and Dave are also helping drive the hype, proving the hoodie isn’t just for skaters—it’s a staple for rap, nightlife, and everything in between.
US Style Scene: Hollywood Cool Meets Streetwear Staples
In the States, the hoodie is embraced in that very LA-meets-New York way.
- LA Celebs: Think paparazzi shots of Kendall Jenner grabbing green juice in an Essentials hoodie, leggings, and Balenciaga runners.
- NYC Energy: Streetwear heads style it under longline coats with Timberlands, blending hip-hop culture with high fashion.
Stores like PacSun and Nordstrom keep Essentials hoodie on rotation, and with every drop, queues form both online and in person. For Americans, the hoodie has become the “I didn’t try, but I look rich” piece.
Style Tips & Fashion Hacks
Want to nail the look without looking like you’re trying too hard? Here are some quick hacks:
- Layer Smartly: Throw the hoodie under a trench coat or leather jacket for a high-low balance.
- Go Monochrome: Pair your hoodie with matching sweatpants for that clean, streamlined vibe.
- Size Up: Always buy a size up—it’s meant to be oversized, not fitted.
- Trainer Match: Match your hoodie tones with your trainers for an intentional, polished look.
- Accessorise: Baseball caps, gold chains, or crossbody bags instantly elevate the outfit.
The Cultural Shift: From Sportswear to Statement
Once upon a time, hoodies were just gym gear or Sunday chill wear. Today, they’ve become cultural symbols—of rebellion, of comfort, of identity. Essentials sits perfectly in this new narrative: a piece that says, “I get fashion, but I’m not trying too hard.”
It’s minimalism meets street credibility, and it reflects where culture is heading—less about loud status symbols, more about subtle signals of taste.
Final Word: Why the Essentials Hoodie Isn’t Going Anywhere
The Essentials hoodie isn’t just a fleeting trend—it’s a wardrobe anchor. It thrives in multiple worlds: from Manchester clubs to New York runways, from TikTok OOTDs to celebrity street snaps. It’s the rare fashion item that feels equally at home in the hands of a Gen Z student, a rapper, or a fashion editor.So, if you haven’t yet jumped on the Essentials wave, consider this your sign. Whether you shop it from Selfridges, END Clothing, PacSun, or Nordstrom, it’s an investment in comfort, versatility, and cultural relevance.