If there’s one piece of clothing that’s managed to bridge the gap between hypebeast culture, everyday comfort, and high-street style, it’s the Essentials Hoodie. Designed under Fear of God’s diffusion label, this oversized, minimal yet statement-making hoodie has become a must-have for streetwear enthusiasts across the globe. But while the hoodie is universal, the way people style, shop, and show it off changes from country to country.
We’ve broken it down into three fashion capitals in their own right — UK, US, and Australia — to see how the Essentials Hoodie is worn, loved, and styled in different corners of the world.
UK: From London Streets to Manchester Music Scenes
In the UK, the Essentials Hoodie has become an unspoken badge of streetwear credibility. Picture this: you’re walking through Shoreditch on a Saturday afternoon, oat latte in hand, and you spot at least three different people rocking it — layered under trench coats, paired with wide-leg cargos, or even styled with Dr. Martens for that gritty, effortlessly cool vibe.
The City Style Split
Londoners are leaning into the monochrome palette, often pairing their Essentials Hoodie with tailored trousers and chunky trainers for that high-low mix. In Manchester, however, the look feels more music-scene-driven, influenced by the city’s rich history in indie and grime. Expect to see it under bomber jackets, alongside beanies, and sometimes styled with vintage tracksuit bottoms — a nod to the Britpop era.
Celebs & Cultural Influence
UK celebs like Skepta and Stormzy have helped cement the hoodie’s status, often spotted in Essentials gear during low-key appearances or Instagram posts. It’s also made its way onto the backs of Love Island alumni, instantly giving it mainstream appeal without losing its underground edge.
Where the UK Shops
Shoppers here are spoilt for choice. Platforms like Selfridges, END Clothing, and Flannels are go-to spots for authentic drops — with some fans even queuing up outside flagship stores when a new colourway is released. The resale game is strong too, with sites like Grailed and Depop buzzing whenever a new season lands.
US: Hip-Hop Heat Meets West Coast Cool
In the United States, the Essentials Hoodie isn’t just fashion — it’s practically a status symbol in the streetwear world. Whether it’s seen front-row at a Travis Scott gig in Houston, or on a TikTok influencer in LA sipping iced matcha, it’s the piece that says, I’m on trend, but I’m not trying too hard.
Coast-to-Coast Styling
On the East Coast, think New York layering — oversized Essentials Hoodies under leather jackets or varsity coats, finished with Air Jordan 1s or Nike Dunks. It’s that hustle-meets-fashion energy. On the West Coast, it’s a looser, sun-soaked look — the hoodie thrown over bike shorts, paired with Yeezy slides or Vans, perfect for those breezy Pacific evenings.
Celebrity Stamp of Approval
Let’s be real — the American hype around the Essentials Hoodie wouldn’t be what it is without the big names. Kanye West’s influence on the minimalist streetwear scene is undeniable, and Travis Scott has been spotted wearing Fear of God pieces more times than we can count. Add in Kendall Jenner and Justin Bieber rocking the oversized silhouette, and you’ve got a pop culture recipe for must-have status.
Where the US Shops
Stateside, you’ll find the Essentials Hoodie in stores like PacSun, Nordstrom, and occasionally at SSENSE for those who want an online splurge. Drops sell out quickly, so sneaker-style release calendars and Instagram notifications are a must for serious fans.
Australia: Laid-Back Luxe for the Streetwear-Obsessed
Down under, the Essentials Hoodie is redefining Aussie casualwear. While Australians have always loved a good hoodie, the rise of streetwear culture — fuelled by Instagram, sneaker resales, and music festivals — has pushed the Essentials label into the limelight.
City-by-City Vibe
In Sydney, the look is clean and coastal — think a taupe Essentials Hoodie with beige cargos, white sneakers, and sunnies. Melbourne, known for its love of all-black outfits and moody streetwear, leans into darker tones, oversized fits, and chunky sneakers.
Cultural Influence
Aussie influencers and athletes have played a big role in making the hoodie mainstream here. From NRL players rocking it in the off-season to fashion-forward surfers styling it post-beach, it’s become a piece that works in both urban and coastal lifestyles.
Where Australia Shops
Locals know that Culture Kings is the streetwear hotspot for picking up an Essentials Hoodiein-store, while The Iconic gives an easy online option. Limited-edition drops often lead to quick sell-outs, with resellers on Facebook Marketplace and StockX charging a premium for popular colourways.
Why the Essentials Hoodie Works Anywhere
Whether you’re in London, New York, or Sydney, the Essentials Hoodie taps into the same universal style codes: oversized comfort, muted colours, and premium streetwear credibility. Its versatility is the secret – it looks just as good under a trench in rainy Manchester as it does thrown over shorts in sunny LA.
The brand’s subtle logo, high-quality fabric, and relaxed silhouette mean it fits into every city’s aesthetic – and that’s why it’s dominating global streetwear.
If you’re planning to get your hands on one, act fast when a drop hits your region. With each country adding its own spin, this hoodie isn’t just a piece of clothing — it’s a passport to streetwear culture.
