If you’re eyeing one of the year’s most coveted wardrobe staples — hello, the ESSENTIALS hoodie — you’re in good company. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane (or reading this in Islamabad via Aussie-import), this hoodie has carved out its place in Gen Z streetwear, celeb-style feeds and gender-neutral wardrobes alike. Let’s break down how to wear it, why it hit big in Australia, and how you can style it like a pro.
Why the ESSENTIALS hoodie is more than just another sweatshirt
The ESSENTIALS label is part of the Fear of God universe, created by designer Jerry Lorenzo in 2018 as a more accessible, everyday line under the Fear of God umbrella. What does that mean for this hoodie?
- Quality fabrics, neutral colour-ways (think stone, oatmeal, black, muted sage) and minimal branding make it a versatile base.
- It’s become a streetwear staple thanks to its oversized relaxed fit, layering potential and that sweet spot between luxury and comfort.
- Importantly, it hits the gender-neutral sweet spot — a fit and look that works for all genders, which we’ll dive into later.
In Australia the hoodie works (quite literally) year-round: winter layering in Melbourne, breezy evenings in Sydney, casual luxe in any capital. And for Aussies or Australians shopping overseas or via online drops, it’s become one of those pieces you “just have to have”.
Celebrity influence & street-cred
When celebs flag a look, the masses follow — and the ESSENTIALS hoodie has celeb backing in spades.
- Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God line was already adored by stars like Kanye West and Justin Bieber, which gave the ESSENTIALS hoodie a serious credibility boost.
- A commentary piece notes:
“One of the biggest reasons the Essentials Hoodie … gained such popularity is its massive celebrity following.” - In other words: when your music-icon, influencer or high-profile actor wears it, your feed lights up and so does the demand.
For Australian street style this means we see it on local influencers, fashion week side-streets, casual airport looks and even uni campuses. The celeb factor gives it buzz; the minimal look gives it staying power.
How Gen Z is wearing it (and why they’re obsessed)
If you want to talk Gen Z translate, here’s what’s happening with the ESSENTIALS hoodie:
- Oversized fit as identity: Gen Z loves garments that look effortless. The relaxed silhouette of the hoodie ticks the “cool without trying too hard” box.
- Neutral palette meets mood: That muted palette fits the “quiet luxury” and “minimal streetwear” mood we’re seeing on TikTok and Insta. Many Gen Z-ers favour more subtle branding, and ESSENTIALS gives that.
- Versatility is key: This hoodie doesn’t feel like just weekend wear. It’s layered, styled, dressed up or down — which means Gen Zers can stretch their budget and their look.
- Gender-fluid appeal: Less about the “men’s” or “women’s” box; more about “this is my look”. I’ll dive further into that next.
Bottom line: it’s comfortable, Instagram-friendly and has the cool-kid cultural references without being overly loud. That’s a potent combo for the next generation.
Style tips: 5 ways to wear your ESSENTIALS hoodie in Australia
Here are quick style recipes to make your hoodie purchase earn its keep:
1. Casual day-out: Hoodie + cargo joggers + chunky sneakers
Pick a neutral colour (stone or oatmeal) and pair with tapered cargo joggers. Add chunky sneakers (white or light grey) and some subtle accessories (cap or mini-backpack). Effortless street.
2. Layered smart-casual: Hoodie under an oversized blazer + straight-leg jeans
Want to elevate the hoodie for a dinner or date? Layer a clean, unstructured blazer on top, let the hoodie hood poke out, add straight-leg raw denim and minimalist trainers or boots. Touches the “dressy-street” mood.
3. Monochrome mood: All-black fit
Black hoodie, black joggers or black leather-look pants, black sneaks (or boots) and maybe a silver chain. The branding becomes subtle, the silhouette becomes intentional.
4. Summer cool: Hoodie with shorts + slides
Yes, you can do hoodie in warmer months in Aus. Grab a lightweight colour (light grey or sand), pair with knee-length shorts and slides or low-tops. Late afternoon layering when the breeze kicks in.
5. Gender-neutral chic: Oversized hoodie + wide-leg trousers + statement bag
For a more fashion-forward look: throw on the hoodie in a size up, pair with wide-leg trousers (linen or cotton), add a bold tote or cross-body and finish with minimalist sneakers. Works for everyone.
Bonus hack: Tuck the front hem of the hoodie slightly into the waistband (front tuck) to add shape. Roll up the cuffs just once for a slouchy but tailored edge.
Why the hoodie has gender-neutral appeal and how to lean into that
One of the coolest things about the Essentials hoodie: it doesn’t care about traditional gender categories. Here’s why that matters:
- The silhouette is relaxed and unstructured — there isn’t a sharp gendered tailoring built in.
- The colour palette is “safe” for all: neutrals dominate, so it sidesteps the pink/blue binary often found in fashion.
- Both men and women (and all identities in between) have been seen in this hoodie. Inclusivity in streetwear is growing and this piece ticks the box.
How you lean into it: treat the hoodie as your blank canvas. Add accessories or pieces that reflect you. Add a unisex watch, a bold belt, or mix prints or textures with it. Let the hoodie be the base, not the type-cast.
The cultural trend in Australia & why it fits our scene
Australia has a unique streetwear scene: relaxed, sun-kissed, blended with athleisure and coastal ease. The ESSENTIALS hoodie fits into that culture perfectly. Why?
- Aussies appreciate versatility — from café brunch to train travel. This hoodie flows.
- The climate in many parts of Australia means layering is key: mornings can be crisp, afternoons warm. A hoodie provides just enough comfort without being heavy.
- Streetwear culture in Australia has moved far beyond skater-only to encompass hip-hop, minimal luxury, influencer-driven looks and more — ESSENTIALS lands at that intersection.
- It aligns with the “quiet luxury” trend: high quality, low-key branding, feel good fabric.
If you’re in Australia (or shopping from Pakistan/Australia via online stores) you’ll find the hoodie in official retailers like The Vault AU, and it’s often available in “earth tones and understated tones”.
Final thoughts: Is it worth it — and your verdict call
So, should you invest in an ESSENTIALS hoodie? Here’s my quick take:
Yes, if you’re looking for:
- A high-quality piece that will remain stylish for years.
- A versatile base for many outfits (daywear, layers, travel looks).
- Something that aligns with modern streetwear but still reads clean.
- A gender-neutral wardrobe item you’ll rotate often.
Maybe skip, or wait, if you’re:
- On a very tight budget and every dollar counts (there are cheaper hoodies out there, though perhaps with trade-offs in longevity/brand).
- After wild colours/logos/prints — this collection is minimal, which is part of the appeal but also less flashy.
In short: if the price fits your budget and you like the aesthetic, this is a wise wardrobe move. It’s trendy and timeless. It looks just as good in 2025 as it likely will in 2027.
So go ahead: pick your tone, choose your fit, style it your way — and let the ESSENTIALS hoodie be that statement piece in your wardrobe. After all, it’s essential.
