Hoodie

Marvin Jones 2019 (cropped)

Hood-1100s

Hoodie man

No hoodies sign

2008 Butterfly Hoodie by Damien Hirst for Adrian Nyman 01

Hoodie

A hoodie (also spelled hoody) is a type of sweatshirt, jumper, or jacket that features a hood. The style is typically worn for casual wear or sportswear, for which people often pair it with sweatpants. The garment is a protective piece of clothing that covers the head and the upper body, and it can also include a muff sewn onto the lower front, a hood, and (usually) a drawstring to adjust the hood opening.

History

The origins of the hoodie date back to Medieval Europe when the garment was worn by monks and outdoor workers. The modern hoodie, however, was first produced in the United States in the 1930s. The hoodie was initially developed by Knickerbocker Knitting Company (which would later become Champion) as a practical piece of clothing for workers in the cold New York warehouses. The design was later adopted by athletes to keep warm during training sessions and games, eventually spreading to a wider audience in the late 20th century.

Design and Variations

Hoodies are made out of various materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends of the two. They come in many colors and designs, often featuring logos of sports teams, universities, or fashion brands. There are several variations of the hoodie, including those with zippers (zip-up hoodies) and those without (pullover hoodies). Some hoodies are designed with additional features like thumb holes, reflective strips for running at night, and waterproof materials for outdoor activities.

Cultural Significance

The hoodie has become an important element in popular culture, associated with a range of subcultures and fashion movements. It has been embraced by the hip hop culture, skate culture, and streetwear scenes. Despite its widespread popularity, the hoodie has also been subject to controversy. It has been criticized for its association with crime and the "thug" stereotype, particularly in the United States, where it has been involved in discussions about racial profiling.

Controversies

One of the most notable controversies involving the hoodie occurred in 2012 with the shooting of Trayvon Martin, a young African-American man who was wearing a hoodie at the time of his death. This incident sparked debates about racial profiling and the hoodie's symbolism in the United States, leading to the "Million Hoodie March" in protest of Martin's death and the broader issues of racial injustice.

In Fashion

In the fashion industry, the hoodie has been elevated from a simple sportswear item to a high-fashion piece. Designers and luxury brands have reimagined the hoodie, incorporating high-quality materials, unique designs, and high price tags. This transformation has helped the hoodie gain acceptance in a wide range of social situations, from casual to semi-formal.

See Also

• Sweatshirt
• Jacket
• Sportswear (fashion)
• Streetwear

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