Let’s be real: not all hoodies are created equal. Some are just… hoodies. And then there’s the Essentials Hoodie—the wardrobe icon that’s basically a personality trait at this point. Whether you’re strutting through Shoreditch, lounging in Los Angeles, or scrolling TikTok in your bedroom, the Essentials Hoodie has become the fashion flex that says, “Yeah, I know style”—without even trying.
From Kanye West’s Yeezy legacy to UK streetwear culture, this unisex piece of cosy couture has slid right into the sweet spot where minimalism meets mega-hype.
Let’s break it down: why’s everyone obsessed with it? How are celebs styling it? And how do you wear it without looking like you just rolled out of bed (unless that’s your vibe)?
What Even Is the Essentials Hoodie?
For the uninitiated (bless), the Essentials Hoodie is the flagship piece from Fear of God Essentials, Jerry Lorenzo’s cult-favourite diffusion line. Think oversized fits, muted earth tones, and that bold “ESSENTIALS” logo plastered across the back or chest.
It’s luxury loungewear made cool, comfy, and—dare we say it—essential. Perfect for airport drip, city strolls, or Netflix marathons.
Celebs Wearing It Like It’s Their Job (Because It Kind of Is)
Let’s start with the obvious: Travis Scott. The man could wear a bin bag and make it fashion, but when he rocks an Essentials Hoodie (usually layered with a flannel or paired with cargos), it’s instant inspo.
Then there’s Justin Bieber, King of Comfycore, often seen in Essentials gear looking like he rolled out of bed in a five-star hotel. Over in the UK, Jorja Smith and Stormzy have been spotted repping the look with that cool, effortless energy we wish we could bottle.
And of course, Kanye West, the godfather of minimalist streetwear, helped pave the way for this whole aesthetic. His influence? Still major. Still mood.
UK Style: From London to Manchester, It’s All About Street Smart Layers
In the UK, fashion walks the line between “I woke up like this” and “I planned this for 6 hours”. The Essentials Hoodie is the perfect bridge.
London Look
In London, it’s all about layering. Style it under a trench coat, throw on some chunky trainers, and you’re basically a walking ASOS editorial. Match it with tailored joggers or wide-leg trousers and boom—high street meets high fashion.
You’ll spot the hoodie on the streets of Soho, paired with bucket hats and crossbody bags, or in Camden, where it’s got a more indie vibe layered under vintage leather jackets.
Manchester Swagger
In Manchester, where the weather does what it wants, the hoodie becomes your practical-cool bestie. Pair it with a puffer coat, oversized cargos, and some Nike Air Maxes, and you’re ready for rain, raves, or a night at the Northern Quarter.
For UK shoppers, score your Essentials fix at Selfridges, END Clothing, or Flannels—all solid picks for grabbing authentic pieces without the resale drama.
Across the Pond: US Style Vibes
In the US, the Essentials Hoodie is basically a rite of passage. You’ll find it in New York skate parks, LA coffee shops, and of course, all over Instagram.
LA Chill
In Los Angeles, it’s all about that “model off duty” energy. Think: hoodie + biker shorts + high socks + chunky New Balances. Add iced matcha, and you’ve nailed the look.
NYC Edge
In New York? It’s hoodie + oversized leather + black sunglasses. Maybe even a beanie. You’re giving “cool downtown creative” who definitely thrifted half their outfit but paid full price for the hoodie.
Pick yours up at PacSun, Nordstrom, or (if you’re lucky) a quick W on SSENSE or Fear of God’s official site.
Why Gen Z Is Obsessed
Here’s the tea: Gen Z doesn’t do try-hard. They want gender-neutral, versatile, and cool-without-screaming. Essentials nails that perfectly. It’s logo-heavy, but still subtle. It fits oversized, but doesn’t drown you. And it works with literally everything.
They also love the hoodie for its sustainability edge—less about fast fashion, more about quality basics you can re-wear 50 times without falling apart. Plus, it photographs beautifully (bless that natural fleece texture).
Bonus: it vibes with any aesthetic. Softcore, normcore, blokette, streetwear, clean girl, techwear—Essentials fits the algorithm.
Gender-Neutral? 100% Yes.
One of the most beautiful things about the Essentials Hoodie is that it’s truly genderless. No need to “shop men’s” or “shop women’s”—it’s just shop the hoodie. The oversized fit, tonal shades, and simple design work across all body types and identities.
And frankly, who doesn’t look amazing in a soft, slightly oversized hoodie that says I’m chill but also kind of iconic?
Fashion Hacks: How to Style Your Essentials Hoodie
Let’s talk styling tricks to take your hoodie from “lazy day” to “legendary”.
1. Layer It Like a Stylist
Throw a long wool coat or blazer over your hoodie for that smart-meets-casual energy. Instant elevation.
2. Go Monochrome
Match your hoodie with similar-toned joggers or trousers. A full beige or charcoal look? Chef’s kiss.
3. Accessorise Loud
Let the hoodie be your neutral base and go wild with colour-pop trainers, statement sunglasses, or a bold tote bag.
4. Biker Shorts or Mini Skirt Vibe
For that high/low contrast. Add tall socks and New Balances or AF1s. Throw in a claw clip and you’re a Pinterest board.
5. Belt Bag Crossbody
Functional and fire. It adds structure to the oversized fit and keeps things feeling modern.
Final Thoughts: Is the Essentials Hoodie Worth It?
In a word: absolutely. It’s one of those rare pieces that’s not just trendy, but timeless. It works in every season, every city, and every personal style moment. It’s cosy, it’s cool, and let’s be honest—it makes your other hoodies look a bit sad.
So whether you’re a sneakerhead, a fashion minimalist, a TikTok scroller, or just someone who likes looking good with minimal effort—the Essentials Hoodie is calling.