Streetwear is one of the most defining fashion trends of our time, combining self-expression, comfort and community. Although we can now see hoodies and sneakers on the catwalks of luxury brands, the roots of the style go back to the Middle Ages. The path from tailcoat to hoodie is long and varied: from workwear to rebellious subcultures to global fashion icon status.
The hundreds of years of history of the hood
The origins of the hood date back to the Middle Ages, when it was worn by monks and peasants, primarily as protection against the cold and rain. These cloaks and capes were functional, worn by all social classes, regardless of status.
The history of the modern hoodie began in 1930s America, when the Champion brand designed it as workwear to keep outdoor workers warm during the winter months.
The birth of streetwear in the '70s and '80s
Streetwear , as we know it today, grew out of the countercultures of the 1970s and '80s.
- Hip-hop communities in New York and Los Angeles used hoodies, sneakers , and baseball caps to express their own style.
- Surf culture in California brought a comfortable, outdoorsy feel to fashion with loose T-shirts, shorts, and hoodies.
- The skateboarding community loved the hoodie for its functionality: it gave freedom of movement and protected from the weather.
During this period, the hoodie was no longer just a piece of clothing, but a symbol of rebellion, freedom, and individuality.
The '90s – when the logo became the message
In the 90s, streetwear entered a new era. Branding and logos became more than just decorative elements, they became a form of self-expression.
- Pieces from Supreme , Stüssy , FUBU or Tommy Hilfiger have become status symbols.
- For young people, wearing a logo was tantamount to expressing belonging – your t-shirt and hoodie showed which community or style you stood for.
- Hip-hop and pop culture stars have made this trend popular globally.
This is when streetwear began to transcend subcultures and become part of mainstream fashion.
If you want to learn more about the history of Supreme , read our previous article!
From the 2000s to the present day – streetwear meets luxury
After the turn of the millennium, streetwear was no longer just “street wear” but became a dominant force in the fashion industry.
- High-fashion designers like Virgil Abloh (Off-White, Louis Vuitton) or Demna Gvasalia (Balenciaga) have integrated hoodies and sneakers on the runway.
- The “drop” culture and limited editions have made streetwear even more exclusive.
- "Invisible luxury" has appeared in modern trends - clean, logo-free hoodies and basic pieces made of premium materials.
The journey from tailcoat to hoodie is one of the most exciting evolutions in fashion. From medieval practical clothing to workwear, the countercultures of the 70s and 80s shaped streetwear, in the 90s the logo became a message, and since the 2000s the intersection of luxury and the street has defined style.
The hoodie is no longer just a comfortable top, but a global language – a symbol of self-expression, social identity and style.
If you want to be part of the streetwear culture, take a look at OnSize's offerings!
Image source: strikemagazines.com , bonnegueule.fr ,
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