At some point in time, we all have possibly owned a sweatshirt or a hoodie. However, a lot of people use these two uber-cool garments interchangeably. Let’s talk more about their features and differences.
What are Classic Sweatshirts?
The origin of the sweatshirt dates back to 1926 when a football player (Benjamin Russell Jr.) was looking for a comfortable alternative to the prickly woolen jerseys. The result was an all-cotton jersey that eliminated issues such as chafing and itching caused by its predecessor.
The practicality of the clothing lay in its design, i.e., a collarless, baggy pullover with long sleeves. As the sweatshirts were made of thick fleecy cotton, they also provided warmth and ensured minimal shrinkage. As the name suggests, its main utility is to induce and absorb sweat. Hence, it was the perfect clothing accompaniment for athletes while training for traditional sports.
The sweatshirt hence became an instant hit and is currently synonymous with casual athletic wear. In the 1970s, this popularity brought out another trend of an ensemble called the sweat-suit with an add-on of joggers or sweatpants.
What are Classic Hoodies?
Over the years, the design of the sweatshirt evolved to include a front zipper and a hood. Thus, emerged the Hooded Sweatshirt, commonly known as the ‘Hoodie’. It surfaced as a functional garment for laborers working in the US’s cold warehouses. Later in the 1930s, it was marketed for football players.
People often confuse the sweatshirt with the hoodie. However, the former is a simpler garment devoid of zippers, hooks, buttons, and hood. Classic hoodies also sport cords or strings to tighten the opening of the hood. Some hoodies come with a central zipper, which offers the versatility of wearing closed or undone. Another distinct hoodie element is a muff pocket or kangaroo pocket on the front, which is used to tuck in your hands or small belongings.
Hoodies are usually worn as a jacket as it is trendy and also provides an additional sheathing layer. Depending on the material, it can shield you from rain and sunlight.
Did you know that hoodies are banned in some shops and establishments for security reasons? This is because its sheer design provides an option to cover the face and the upper body. Due to this, many individuals use it to be in stealth mode by simply upturning the hood. After a busy day, a lot of people turn up the hood if they want to be left alone.
Classic Sweatshirt vs. Classic Hoodie
At first glance, both the sweatshirt and hoodie may seem similar. Though made of similar fabrics, the stark difference between the two is the absence of a hood in a sweatshirt. While the sweatshirt utility is as a snug and warm sweater, a hoodie is used more as a multipurpose jacket. While the basic distinction has been outlined, the styling of the two makes all the difference.
Cold Weather Conditions
There is no fundamental difference in the fabric used in sweatshirts and hoodies. They generally comprise classic French Terry cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. Further, both designs incorporate bands at the waist and sleeve ends that provide heat insulation. The differentiator here is the affixed hood that shields from winds, sun and rain. Forgotten your beanie? Don’t fear, the hood is here! Due to the thickness of the hood and the way it encloses the neck, it provides superior safeguards on chilly and wintry days, even without the hood being turned up.
Formal Occasions
The classic sweatshirt sits on the borderline of being casual and formal. That is why it is an acceptable option at formal, semi-formal, or casual get-togethers. One can even pair it with a shirt below it to add a stylish element. However, on the other hand, hoodies are unacceptable informal and semi-formal settings as they are too casual. Further, wearing a collared shirt with a hoodie would be a severe fashion faux-pas. It is best to stick with a classic sweatshirt for formal events.
Casual Settings
You cannot go wrong with either the classic hoodie or sweatshirt in casual meetings, as both are known for their relaxed and leisurely looks. However, a hoodie is a versatile jacket that one can pair with any garment or outfit. Think summer dresses, flowy skirts, skinny jeans, or shorts. Hoodies create a new and fashionable look with every attire. While the possibilities of pairing anything with a sweatshirt is minimal, layering outfits with a hoodie create a sophisticated and urbane look.
Whether a classic hoodie or a classic sweatshirt, one must not miss adding this iconic look to one’s wardrobe. When you visit Texsup, you can customize them with any design of your choice. Go check them out now!