Good in the Hood

The hoodie or sweatshirt has become a staple product of branded clothing but where did it come from? Clive Alcott investigates

The history of the sweatshirt can be traced back to the early 20th Century.

The precursor to the modern sweatshirt was a simple grey cotton jersey shirt used as athletic wear by American football and basketball players in the 1920s. These early sweatshirts had a basic pullover design with ribbed cuffs and a crew neck.

The name ‘sweatshirt’ was coined because these garments were designed to absorb sweat and keep athletes comfortable during physical activities.

 

Rise in Popularity

As sports and athletic events gained popularity, sweatshirts became more widely used by athletes and sports teams in the Thirties and Forties. Colleges and universities began to print their logos and team names on sweatshirts, making them a form of sports merchandise.

After WW2, sweatshirts started to become popular as casualwear. They were often worn by students and young adults, particularly on college campuses. During this time, the hooded sweatshirt, or hoodie, emerged as a variation.

 

Hoodie Popularity

Hoodies gained popularity in the 1970s, partly due to their association with urban streetwear and emerging hip-hop culture. The hoodie’s practical design and anonymity (with the hood up) made it a favourite among young people.               

Hoodies and sweatshirts received significant attention in popular culture. They were worn by celebrities, featured in movies and TV shows, and became symbols of rebellion and nonconformity.

Fashion Evolution

In the Eighties and Nineties, sweatshirts evolved into fashionable items. Designers and clothing brands began to experiment with different fabrics, styles, and graphics. Sweatshirts often featured logos, slogans, or artwork.

Athletic apparel companies like Nike, Adidas, and Puma started producing sweatshirts and hoodies as part of their product lines furthering their popularity.

 

 

Contemporary Trends

They continue to be popular and versatile items of clothing with fashion designers incorporating them into their collections, blurring the lines between sportswear and high fashion.

With the rise of online custom apparel shops, individuals can easily personalise sweatshirts. The leavers’ hoodie has become the must have item for school, college and university students.

Today, sweatshirts and hoodies remain iconic symbols of comfort, style, and self-expression, with a history that reflects their journey from functional athletic wear to versatile fashion.

 

Happy selling

Clive the clothing and bag guru