Oversized hoodies are the item of the week
What it is:
An oversized hoodie takes comfort and warmth to new levels when the standard hoodie just doesn’t cut it. A casualization of fashion continues to take over design, making oversized fits more popular than ever. It has even seen haute couture designers take such cues on board, with many displaying a new level of high luxury in the form of baggy silhouettes that can be worn to the supermarket. Shoppers can go back to the oversized hoodie repeatedly, since it has become a consistent wardrobe addition for all genders.
Why you’ll want it:
While the hoodie has always been a part of the casual clothing category, it has continued to increase in popularity. Nearly outpacing its fitted counterpart, in terms of oversized sizes. In sportswear collections, the latter is most often found in materials that are breathable and suitable for active wear. In an oversized format, however, fabrics tend to prioritise comfort. Appealing to a broader audience who are simply looking for an item to snuggle up in or throw on. Also, such an item does not conform to the seasons. It can serve as a valuable investment for shoppers since it is always available when needed.
Where we’ve seen it:
As always, oversized hoodies made a regular appearance on runways, particularly defining the prominent casualwear segment of SS24 collections. Vetements was a brand that led the way in breaking down the concept of oversized in the fashion world, with a hoodie that literally fell below the knees, in a size 16 XL, according to its front label. While other brands didn’t go to such lengths, many did still challenge the confines of the standard silhouette. While Dhruv Kapoor contrasted the choice of short sleeves with a drawn out hemline. LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi presented a zip up version that was quite substantial. In line with the designer’s usual fantastical style, JW Anderson’s version of oversized was puffed up and more rigid.
How to style it:
The great thing about the oversized hoodie is that there is no pressure when it comes to styling the item. The exaggerated shape of the piece enables the wearer to layer it over any outfit, or simply pair it with casual clothing like leggings or sweatpants, eliminating the need to dress it up. You can also use the piece as a layer over evening wear, bringing it along almost as an afterthought when it starts to get chilly later on.
This oversized hoodie is a logical progression from the classic hooded sweater, appealing to those looking for an easy layering option.
