If you live in the UK, chances are you’ve spotted someone rocking an Essentials hoodie on your daily commute, at uni, or even in your local Tesco. It’s not just another sweatshirt – it’s the hoodie that’s taken over wardrobes from London to Manchester, Leeds to Birmingham. Effortlessly cool, gender-neutral, and totally Instagram-approved, the Essentials hoodie has become the fashion equivalent of a flat white: everyone wants one, and everyone has their own way of styling it.
So, why is the UK so obsessed? Let’s take a closer look at how this streetwear staple is being styled across Britain, the celebs fuelling the hype, and how you can pull it off like a pro.
London Calling: Streetwear Meets High Fashion
In London, the Essentials Hoodie has cemented itself as a wardrobe must-have, especially in East London hotspots like Shoreditch and Hackney. Pair it with oversized trench coats, chunky trainers, and wide-leg trousers, and you’ve got yourself the perfect mix of high-low fashion.
Londoners love clashing luxury with casual, so it’s not unusual to see an Essentials hoodie layered under a Burberry trench or styled with Prada loafers. It’s all about contrast – making something so simple feel elevated with just a few smart touches.
Style Hack: London fashionistas often size up in the hoodie for that boxy, relaxed look, then balance it out with tailored trousers. Effortless, chic, and very “front row at Fashion Week.”
Manchester: Sporty Vibes with Northern Attitude
Up north in Manchester, the look is more about practicality and attitude. Think oversized Essentials hoodie paired with joggers, puffer jackets, and fresh white Air Force 1s. It’s comfy, it’s urban, and it’s perfect for that unpredictable Mancunian weather.
Manchester’s thriving music and club scene also plays a role. Locals love the hoodie’s laid-back vibe – ideal for pre-drinks, gig nights, and lazy hangover Sundays. Plus, it’s no secret that the city’s love for football culture influences the fit. Hoodies are part of the match-day uniform, whether you’re heading to Old Trafford or the Etihad.
Style Hack: Pair your Essentials hoodie with cargos or straight-leg jeans for an easy match-day look. Throw on a cap, and you’ve nailed that casual Manc attitude.
Leeds: Vintage Meets Modern Streetwear
Leeds has its own thing going on, thanks to its thriving student culture and love of vintage. Here, the Essentials hoodie is often paired with thrifted denim, vintage trainers (hello, Adidas Gazelles), and oversized bombers. Students love the versatility – you can wear it to lectures, to brunch at Hyde Park, or even on a night out layered under a leather jacket.
Leeds fashion is less about looking polished and more about nailing that effortlessly thrown-together vibe. The Essentials hoodie is the ultimate base layer for experimenting with retro and modern trends.
Style Hack: Try layering your hoodie under a vintage blazer for that “I didn’t try, but actually I did” aesthetic. Bonus points if it’s a bit oversized and boxy.
Birmingham: Bold, Bright, and Branded
In Birmingham, the Essentials hoodie leans more into bold streetwear energy. Brummies aren’t afraid to go big on logos, colours, and head-to-toe branded looks. It’s all about making a statement – whether that’s pairing a grey Essentials hoodie with bold Jordans or mixing it with statement cargos.
This city loves an outfit that turns heads, so the hoodie isn’t just a basic – it’s the starting point for layering bright accessories, fresh kicks, and sharp cuts.
Style Hack: Go bold by pairing a neutral Essentials hoodie with colourful trainers or a standout bag. Birmingham fashion thrives on confidence, so don’t be afraid to push the boundaries.
Celeb Seal of Approval: Why the Essentials Hoodie Took Off
The hoodie’s rise in the UK isn’t just random – it’s been backed by some serious celebrity influence. From Justin Bieber and Kanye West to Hailey Bieber and Fear of God loyalists, the Essentials hoodie has been spotted on A-listers everywhere.
Closer to home, UK rappers, footballers, and influencers have given the hoodie cult status. Whether it’s Stormzy in an oversized fit or Love Island alumni styling it for airport looks, celebs have made the hoodie aspirational yet accessible.
And let’s be honest – if you’ve seen Bella Hadid or Rihanna pull it off on Instagram, you’ve probably thought, “I need one too.”
The Gen Z Factor: Why It’s a Wardrobe Essential
No trend takes off these days without the Gen Z stamp of approval. This generation loves comfort, sustainability, and versatility – and the Essentials hoodie ticks all three boxes.
It’s gender-neutral, which makes it universally wearable. It’s durable, meaning you can wear it season after season. And with its minimal branding, it taps into Gen Z’s love for understated luxury. Plus, the oversized fit makes it TikTok-perfect – ideal for transition videos, mirror selfies, and OOTD reels.
Style Hack: If you’re Gen Z, you’re probably already styling it with baggy cargos, mini skirts, or layered jewellery. Don’t forget the chunky trainers and tote bag for that Pinterest-ready finish.
Why the Essentials Hoodie Works for Everyone
What makes the Essentials Hoodie stand out is its gender-neutral, body-positive design. It’s not fitted, not flashy, not trying too hard – it simply works.
- For guys: It’s the perfect piece to wear with joggers, jeans, or layered under jackets.
- For girls: It doubles as a dress with knee-high boots or looks effortlessly cool with cycling shorts.
- For everyone: It’s the ultimate travel hoodie – warm, comfortable, and stylish enough to get through airport security looking like a celeb.
Fashion Hacks: How to Elevate Your Essentials Hoodie
So, how do you make this wardrobe staple feel fresh every time? Try these quick hacks:
- Layer Like a Pro – Throw it under a blazer, leather jacket, or trench for instant street-style points.
- Play with Proportions – Balance the oversized hoodie with skinny jeans or, flip the script, go full baggy with wide-leg trousers.
- Accessorise Smartly – Gold hoops, crossbody bags, chunky trainers, and caps all elevate the look.
- Monochrome Magic – Go for an all-black or all-grey look for a sleek, minimalist vibe.
- Go Cosy-Chic – Pair with knit beanies and UGGs for a London winter aesthetic.
Final Thoughts: The Hoodie That Defined a Generation
The Essentials hoodie isn’t just a piece of clothing – it’s a fashion movement. From London’s high-low styling to Manchester’s sporty roots, Leeds’ vintage edge, and Birmingham’s bold confidence, it’s managed to fit seamlessly into every UK city’s vibe.
It’s gender-neutral, celebrity-approved, and TikTok-viral – basically, the perfect formula for a modern classic. So, whether you’re lounging at home, hitting the high street, or heading to a gig, the Essentials hoodie is the one piece you’ll always reach for.