Hoodies - Know Your Hoodie
Do You know Your Hoodie? A Brief History
Today, hoodies are an increasingly popular item of clothing world-wide with all imaginable designs and varieties. When did they come on the scene and why have they grown in such popularity?
First and foremost, let's travel back to medieval times of the Anglo-Saxons. You'll find that the word "hood", comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod", which ultimately is the root of the English word "hat".
12th Century Hoodie
In medieval Europe, you can trace this style and form of the garment back to the monks. The garment was made with a hood, called a cowl, attached to a tunic or robes. Outdoor workers commonly wore the hooded cape, which was popular among them. The hooded caped garment appeared in England round about the 12th century. Possibly, imported from Normandy during the Norman(French)conquest of England. Known then as the capa, it was a short hoodied coat which was popular in Normandy.
Hoodie In 20th Century
As we claw our way through the brief history of the hoodie, here is the 20th-century take.
The hoodie, designed as a pullover was for practical use, rather than for looking attractive. It emerged in the US during the 1930s, specially created and marketed by Champion knitwear to labourers working in freezing temperatures in upstate New York.
We move forward to the 1970s to the advent of Hip-Hop culture, developed in New York. This culture was one of the instrumental factors in popularising the now-iconic hoodie. Alongside were the high-profile fashion designers of that time who embraced and glamorised the new style of clothing. And of course, the blockbuster Rocky film which made the hoodie even more popular. However, some say that this era of the now-iconic hoodie represented a spirit of rebellion and miss-trust.
The Transition of The Hoodie
The word "hoodie" officially entered the vocabulary of everyday usage in the 90s. This period was the dawning of a new age for the well-travelled and beloved iconic hoodie to evolve into a world-beater. Casting notorious associations aside, during this era of the 90s, Tommy Hilfiger, Giorgio Armani, and Ralph Lauren used the hoodie as the primary component for many of their collections.
From the 12th to the 22nd century---
Besides its many permutations, association and symbolic statements, the hoodie has left an indelible mark on the fashion world for men women and children of all ages. So, make a statement with your favourite hoodie and create a vibe.