When it comes to blending comfort, minimalism, and modern street style, few garments rival the Essentials Hoodie. Created under Fear of God’s Essentials line by Jerry Lorenzo, this hoodie has quickly become a wardrobe staple for fashion-forward individuals across the globe. But before you click “add to cart,” it’s worth understanding what makes this hoodie special—and how to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Here’s everything you need to know before buying an Essentials Hoodie.
1. Understand the Brand: Fear of God Essentials
Fear of God is a high-end streetwear brand known for its luxurious yet minimal aesthetic. Essentials, its more accessible diffusion line, carries the same design ethos but at a more affordable price point. The Essentials Hoodie is the standout piece from this collection, known for its oversized silhouette, muted tones, and bold yet minimalistic “ESSENTIALS” branding.
So, when you purchase an Essentials Hoodie, you’re not just buying a hoodie—you’re buying into a lifestyle of elevated basics.
2. Know Your Sizing (It’s Oversized by Design)
One of the key features of the Essentials Hoodie is its boxy, oversized fit. This is intentional, aligning with contemporary streetwear trends that favor relaxed silhouettes.
If you’re unsure:
-
Go true to size for the intended oversized look.
-
Size down if you want a more fitted appearance.
-
Check size charts on the retailer’s website—don’t assume traditional hoodie sizes apply.
It’s best to try it on in person if possible or watch sizing reviews online before deciding.
3. Expect Premium Quality – But Not Luxury Pricing
While Essentials is a more affordable sub-label of Fear of God, it still uses high-quality materials. The hoodie is typically made from a cotton-polyester blend, offering a heavy feel with soft fleece lining. The construction is solid, the stitching clean, and the materials designed to last.
However, it’s not luxury pricing. Most Essentials Hoodies fall in the $90–$120 USD range, making them an attractive option for those wanting designer-level design without the high-end price tag.
4. Colorways and Drops Are Limited
Essentials releases collections—or “drops”—seasonally, and each drop typically features a range of neutral, earthy tones like black, cream, taupe, and gray. These limited releases create demand and scarcity.
If you’re eyeing a specific color, buy it when you see it—it might not restock. Once sold out, pieces are often only available through resellers, where prices can be marked up significantly.
5. Be Wary of Counterfeits
Due to its popularity, Essentials Hoodies are a common target for counterfeiters. Fake versions often cut corners in material quality, fit, and branding details.
To avoid buying a fake:
-
Shop through official retailers like SSENSE, PacSun, END., or Fear of God’s own website.
-
Check for details like:
-
Rubberized “ESSENTIALS” logo on chest/back
-
Reflective branding on some pieces
-
Quality of fabric and stitching
-
Correct tag placement and font
-
If the price seems too good to be true—it probably is.
6. Versatile Style for Every Wardrobe
Whether you’re into classic streetwear or just want a cozy yet stylish hoodie, the Essentials Hoodie fits into nearly any wardrobe. You can pair it with:
-
Cargo pants or joggers for a relaxed look
-
Slim jeans and sneakers for a high-low blend
-
Layered over a long tee for that signature Fear of God aesthetic
The minimalist branding and neutral color palette make it easy to mix and match with various outfits.
7. Care Tips to Keep It Fresh
To maintain your hoodie’s look and feel:
-
Wash it inside out in cold water
-
Air dry or tumble on low heat
-
Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that could fade the logo or damage fabric
With proper care, your hoodie will retain its shape, color, and softness for many wears.
Final Thoughts
The Essentials Hoodie isn’t just another piece of casual wear—it’s a carefully crafted garment that balances streetwear credibility with minimalist design. If you value quality, comfort, and clean aesthetics, it’s worth every penny. Just make sure to buy from legit sources, understand the fit, and act fast when your favorite color drops.
In a world of fast fashion, the Essentials Hoodie offers a refreshingly timeless approach to modern style. Before you buy, keep these tips in mind to make sure you’re investing in something that truly lives up to the hype.
