In recent years, the Essentials hoodie has become more than just a cozy layer for cold days. It’s now a symbol of minimalist style, elevated streetwear, and fashion-forward comfort. With celebrities, influencers, and everyday fashion lovers rocking these hoodies, it’s no surprise that the hype continues to grow. Essentials Hoodie But before you invest in one, there are a few things you should know. From understanding the brand and quality to sizing, styling, and authenticity—this blog breaks down everything you need to consider before buying an Essentials hoodie.
The Brand Behind Essentials
Essentials is a diffusion line created by Fear of God, a luxury fashion label founded by Jerry Lorenzo. While Fear of God is known for its high-end, premium-priced garments, Essentials is designed to offer a more accessible entry point into the brand's aesthetic. The pieces still retain that signature Fear of God vibe—relaxed silhouettes, muted color palettes, and high-quality materials—but at a more affordable price point.
Essentials aims to provide everyday staples with a fashion-forward twist. The hoodies in particular have become icons of the line, loved for their oversized fits, subtle branding, and premium construction. Essentials is not just about logo placement or trend-chasing—it’s about timeless design that fits effortlessly into a modern wardrobe.
What Makes the Essentials Hoodie Special
At first glance, the Essentials hoodie may seem simple. But its appeal lies in the details. Made from heavyweight cotton and cotton blends, these hoodies offer a soft-yet-structured feel that provides both comfort and durability. The fabric is thick enough to keep you warm but breathable enough for year-round wear.
The branding is typically understated. You'll often find a tonal “ESSENTIALS” logo either on the chest or the back, along with a small rubber tag on the hood. These subtle design choices give the hoodie a clean and elevated appearance, making it versatile enough to be styled with anything from joggers to tailored trousers.
In addition to the quality fabric and construction, the fit plays a huge role in its appeal. Essentials hoodies are known for their oversized, boxy cut. This creates a relaxed silhouette that fits with the laid-back yet stylish ethos of modern streetwear. If you’re into the whole off-duty model or cozy minimalist look, this hoodie fits the bill perfectly.
Sizing and Fit Tips
One of the most common questions people have before buying an Essentials hoodie is about sizing. The brand intentionally designs its hoodies with an oversized fit. This means that even if you buy your usual size, the hoodie will likely have a loose, roomy feel. For some, that’s the goal—but for others who prefer a more fitted look, sizing down might be the better option.
That said, it’s important to consider how you plan to style the hoodie. If you like to layer it over shirts or under larger coats, the original size might offer the right amount of room. On the other hand, if you’re going for a cleaner, more streamlined outfit, a size down could be more flattering. Checking out size charts and watching try-on videos from trusted creators can help you visualize the fit on different body types.
Color Options and Seasonal Drops
Another appealing aspect of the Essentials hoodie is the wide range of neutral colors available. Think taupes, greys, creams, blacks, and dusty tones. These colors make it easy to pair the hoodie with virtually anything in your closet. Essentials typically releases its collections in seasonal “drops,” and each drop may include a slightly different set of colors or subtle design updates.
This limited-edition release model creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity. If there’s a particular color you love, it’s best to act quickly, as it might not be restocked. At the same time, if you miss out, you can usually look forward to the next drop which will likely feature new hues and possibly fresh takes on classic designs.
Pricing and Value
Essentials hoodies retail around the $90 to $120 mark, depending on the season and retailer. While this isn’t cheap by fast-fashion standards, it’s relatively affordable when compared to other high-end streetwear or designer brands. What you’re paying for is a combination of quality, design, and brand cachet.
Considering the hoodie’s durability and timeless appeal, many buyers find it to be a worthwhile investment. Unlike trendy pieces that go out of style quickly, Essentials hoodies are built to last and designed to remain relevant. Plus, their resale value tends to hold up well, especially for limited-edition colors or collaborations.
Where to Buy and How to Spot Fakes
Essentials hoodies are sold through various authorized retailers such as PacSun, SSENSE, Mr Porter, and the Fear of God website itself. Due to high demand, they often sell out quickly, which has unfortunately led to a rise in counterfeit products on the resale market.
To avoid getting scammed, always buy from reputable sources. If you’re shopping resale, use platforms with buyer protection like Grailed or StockX. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and check for details like the rubber hood tag, correct font of the logo, and high-quality stitching. Authentic Essentials hoodies have a premium feel that’s difficult to replicate.
Styling Your Essentials Hoodie
The versatility of the Essentials hoodie is one of its greatest strengths. Whether you’re going for an athleisure vibe, a streetwear-inspired outfit, or a casual-chic ensemble, this hoodie can be styled accordingly. Pair it with matching sweatpants for a coordinated set, or throw it over a pair of jeans and sneakers for an effortless everyday look. You can also layer it under a wool coat or puffer jacket for added warmth and dimension during colder months.
Its minimalist design means it won’t clash with louder pieces in your wardrobe. This makes it a perfect foundation for building outfits, especially if you gravitate toward neutral tones or capsule wardrobe aesthetics.
Final Thoughts
Buying an Essentials hoodie is about more than just hopping on a trend—it’s about investing in a piece that blends comfort, style, and quality. With its thoughtfully designed fit, premium materials, and versatile aesthetic, the Essentials Tracksuit offers much more than meets the eye. Whether you’re new to streetwear or a longtime fan of Fear of God, this hoodie deserves a spot in your wardrobe.
Just remember to do your homework on sizing and authenticity, shop from trusted retailers, and consider how it fits into your personal style. Once you get your hands on one, you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to staple for so many fashion-forward individuals.
