The hoodie is more than just a hooded sweatshirt. Today, it is worn by everyone from students to athletes, celebrities to designers, workers to artists. But the journey of this everyday wardrobe item began much earlier than most people think.
As early as the 13th century, monks wore long robes with hoods, known as habites or klobuks. The hood symbolized humility and served to protect against the cold. Around the same time, similar hoods were worn by workers and peasants to protect themselves from wind and rain during hard work outdoors. In other words, the idea of the hoodie arose as a practical item of clothing designed for protection, not fashion.
The modern hoodie appeared in the 1930s in the United States, when the Champion Products company created a warm hooded sweatshirt specifically for warehouse workers in cold New York City. The thick fabric and soft fleece kept workers warm, and the hood provided additional protection from the elements. This simple, functional garment quickly gained popularity among workers and soon attracted the attention of athletes. University teams began ordering hoodies with logos and logos, and the hoodie became part of student culture, symbolizing team spirit and everyday comfort.
In the 1970s, the hoodie hit the streets. It became an integral part of hip-hop culture, adopted by graffiti artists and skateboarders. For young people, it symbolized freedom, individuality, and rebellion against the mainstream. The 1976 film Rocky only reinforced this image - the hoodie became a symbol of inner strength, perseverance, and the will to fight. Since then, it has transformed from a practical workwear item to a cultural expression of character and energy.
By the 1990s and 2000s, the hoodie had fully entered the fashion world. Brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Supreme, and Vetements reimagined it, fusing sportswear with a streetwear aesthetic. The hoodie went from being just a comfortable piece of clothing to a basic form of expression. It can now be seen on the catwalk, in universities, in offices, and on the streets. Its simple design and versatility have made it one of the most recognizable pieces of clothing in the world.
Interestingly, the word “hoodie” itself only appeared in the 1990s, derived from hood. Initially, it referred to any hooded sweatshirt, but over time it became a symbol of a distinct style—one that embodies comfort, functionality, and street freedom.
Today, the hoodie is much more than just casual wear. It is a symbol of modern life—of comfort, independence, and confidence. It can be worn for training, work, travel or leisure. It suits any lifestyle and any occasion, combining simplicity with individuality.
The history of the hoodie is a story of transformation: from humble workwear to a true style icon - proof that comfort and style can absolutely go hand in hand.