It’s the wardrobe staple you can rely on.
The way we dress can imbue us with particular attitudes.
Is there any piece that illustrates this more clearly than the humble hoodie?
Being encompassed within heavyweight textiles, with extra material to pull over your head, can impart a sense of security and relaxation.
If you wear one to wander through the world, it’s likely you use it to feel comfort. Certain stylings can boost this too – really good jeans, sneakers and a baseball cap encourage assured streetside stomping, while relaxed-cut trousers and closed-toe sandals evoke a slower pace.
Locally, emerging designers have used smaller, sporadic drops of the wardrobe staple to make their mark. Sleeping Profit made a range branded with butterfly wings. Nineteen 99’s distinctive screenprinting has seen a range of impactful images. Jing He also showcases exciting experimentation with the form.
Coined the “Foundation” hoodie, this Longform jumper does what it says on the tin. It’s spun from merino jersey, making it both cosy and breathable – layer underneath your favourite workwear jackets.
This hoodie embraces casual dress codes, with a dropped shoulder and oversized fit. The fading throughout the textile and around the seams makes it feel lived in.
Each hoodie produced by Ah Tua has individual characteristics, so this is just a sample.
You’ll find reliable basics among AS Colour’s offerings – this is one of the more heavyweight options. The cotton is 400 GSM.
Local designer Emma Muir has released a few new basics for her label Rhoda Nunn. There’s this cropped hoodie, a baby tee that reads “Show Pony” and some very sweet rosette earrings.
This shaggy and soft hoodie is super lightweight, designed for traipsing the great outdoors.
Neat buttons put a twist on the form of a hoodie. There’s something wonderfully cartoon-ish about the colour combination and bold stripes.
If you’re involved in community, consider a hoodie that signals your allegiance. This one, available on pre-order until April 20 from Moana Fresh, highlights the artistic interest of this Avondale spot.
Though hoodies often have casual connotations, the light, sheer textile of the Lost & Led Astray piece means it’s amenable to all sorts of layering.
This black, zip-up hoodie is a staple you can really live in – and it will only look better with time (think fading and softening to suit your movements).
“No regrets” reads this navy blue hoodie, which will feel plush and relaxed all day long. It’s also made in Wellington.
This 100% cotton jumper will pair pleasantly with jeans or your favourite pyjama pants.
Squint, and you’ll see the white contrast panel that runs down the side of this black hoodie.
Local designer Josh Bognar has been developing maximalist pieces that patchwork all sorts of labels together. On his website, you’ll find these enveloping hoodies, alongside bags, jeans and shirts.
Drink your morning espresso in a hoodie that matches. Entire Studios also has a few other neutral colourways to consider.
This jumper, made in New Zealand, has hidden pockets and an especially encompassing hood.
A shock of yellow will be an uplifting addition to grey days. This Porter James jumper also features slick cropping and a heavyweight cotton.
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