The Origins and Evolution of Hoodies: A Cultural Journey Through Time

The term 'hoodie' has come to signify much more than just a piece of clothing. It carries with it a complex history and cultural significance that has evolved over the years. The word 'hoodie,' which has roots in both sartorial and slang usage, tells a story of cultural adaptation and change. In this article, we explore the etymology, invention, and popularization of hoodies, detailing how they have become an integral part of contemporary culture.

Etymology and Historical Background

The word 'hoodie' traces its roots to the Old English word 'hod,' which meant a hooded covering for the head. It is also used as slang to refer to lower socioeconomic groups. The word can be traced back to 'Old English hod, ' cf. Old Saxon hod, Old Frisian hod. Hooded garments have been a documented part of mens and womens wear for centuries, with the term 'hood' deriving from the Anglo-Saxon word 'hōd,' ultimately of the same root as 'hat.'

The garments' style and form can be traced back to Medieval Europe when the normal clothing for monks included a hood called a cowl attached to a tunic or robes. A chaperon or hooded cape was very commonly worn by any outdoors worker. Its appearance was known in England at least as early as the 12th century, possibly an import with the Norman conquest of England as the capa was.

Invention and Early Uses

The invention of hoodies is often linked to the cold conditions faced by workers in the 1930s in New York warehouses. These cold environments necessitated the creation of garments that offered insulation and protection against the elements. The modern clothing style was first produced by Champion in the 1930s and marketed to laborers working in freezing temperatures in upstate New York. The hoodie served as a utilitarian garment that provided warmth and comfort in harsh working conditions.

During this era, hoodies were primarily used by workers and were not widely recognized or popularized. It wasn't until the 1990s that the term 'hoodie' entered popular usage. The hoodie gained significant attention in 1996 when it became a symbol in the cultural dialogue surrounding race and social issues, particularly following the death of Trayvon Martin. Martin was wearing a hoodie when he was tragically killed, leading to a surge in the garment's cultural significance, marked by its association with African American youth and protest movements.

Cultural Adoption and Popularization

In the 1970s, hoodies began to emerge as a trendy choice in fashion, driven by several factors. Hip hop culture, which developed in New York City around this time, embraced the hoodie as part of its style. High fashion also played a role, as designers like Norma Kamali and others began to incorporate and glamorize the new clothing. A key moment in the hoodie's cultural evolution was its appearance in the blockbuster film Rocky, which showcased the garment's capacity to be both practical and fashionable.

Simultaneously, hoodies began to make an impression in geek culture, particularly with Mark LoGiurato's introduction of them at companies such as the Software Bottling Company. The rise of hoodies with university logos also occurred in the 1970s, indicating a shift towards academic and social branding. The use of hoodies as a way to express individuality and join communities became increasingly common among diverse groups, from urban youth to professionals and academic communities.

The hoodie's versatility and adaptability have solidified its place in contemporary fashion and culture. It continues to evolve, taking on new meanings and uses. Today, hoodies are not only functional garments but also powerful symbols of cultural identity, fashion, and social movements.

sources:

The Oxford English Dictionary Donald E. Philips, New York City in the 1930s Norma Kamali biography Mark LoGiurato’s introduction of hoodies at the Software Bottling Company Wikipedia - Hoodie