When it comes to casual, all-American fashion, Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch are two names that often come up side by side—and for good reason. Both brands are owned by the same parent company, yet they cater to slightly different audiences in terms of age, aesthetic, and price. If you’re debating whether to go for a Hollister hoodie or invest a little more in Abercrombie, this guide will help you determine which brand offers better overall value for your wardrobe and lifestyle.
Brand Overview: Similar Roots, Distinct Directions
- Hollister Co.: Launched in 2000, Hollister is geared toward a younger, more budget-conscious demographic, offering California-inspired casual wear that emphasizes surf culture and teen/college life.
- Abercrombie & Fitch: The older sibling brand, Abercrombie has shifted in recent years to become a more refined, elevated brand that targets adults in their 20s and 30s with modern, minimalist styles and premium materials.
Price Comparison: Affordable vs Premium
| Feature | Hollister Hoodie | Abercrombie Hoodie |
|---|---|---|
| Average Retail Price | $40–$60 | $70–$100+ |
| Sale Price Range | $25–$40 | $45–$70 |
| Fabric Composition | Cotton/poly blend (midweight) | Cotton fleece or stretch blend (premium weight) |
Verdict:
Hollister clearly wins in affordability. If you’re shopping on a tighter budget or like to refresh your wardrobe frequently, the lower price point makes it more accessible. However, Abercrombie’s hoodies are often made with denser, higher-quality materials that may justify the extra cost over time.
Fit and Style: Youthful vs Elevated
- Hollister Hoodies:
- Offer a relaxed, laid-back fit.
- Include oversized, cropped, and classic styles.
- Often feature bold branding, logos, or playful graphics.
- Perfect for casual, trend-forward streetwear or loungewear looks.
- Abercrombie Hoodies:
- Prioritize tailored, clean silhouettes.
- Focus on muted colors, minimal branding, and refined details.
- Tend to lean more sophisticated and age-neutral.
- Great for layering with elevated casual outfits (e.g. over button-ups or under coats).
Verdict:
If you’re into a more timeless, polished aesthetic, Abercrombie wins. But if you prefer a fun, laid-back, and youthful vibe, Hollister has more variety in trend-led styles.
Comfort and Fabric Feel
Both brands use soft fleece interiors and cotton-blend fabrics, but there’s a difference in feel and weight:
- Hollister: Lightweight to midweight fleece; soft and cozy but less structured.
- Abercrombie: Midweight to heavyweight fleece; often pre-washed for a broken-in luxury feel.
Abercrombie also tends to use brushed fleece and stretch materials that feel thicker and more premium to the touch.
Verdict:
Abercrombie hoodies usually feel more luxurious and hold their shape longer. But for cozy everyday comfort, Hollister is still a solid and comfortable choice.
Durability and Longevity
- Hollister hoodies last well with proper care, but may show pilling or stretching after several months of heavy use.
- Abercrombie hoodies, thanks to premium stitching and denser fabric, generally hold their shape and softness longer, especially after repeated washes.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for long-term value, Abercrombie may be worth the investment. If you like to update your style seasonally, Hollister’s affordability makes that easier.
Sizing and Inclusivity
- Hollister:
- Runs slightly smaller, often aimed at teen/young adult body types.
- Offers an expanded range of sizes (including XXS–XXL in many styles).
- Abercrombie:
- Offers extended sizing for both men and women (including petite, tall, and curve options).
- More tailored fits for a wide variety of body types.
Verdict:
Abercrombie has made major strides in size inclusivity and fit customization, giving it an edge for those who need a more specific or flattering cut.
Design Variety and Trend Relevance
- Hollister drops more trend-forward styles, such as:
- Tie-dye
- Cropped fits
- Logo-centric graphics
- Bright seasonal colors
- Abercrombie sticks to timeless, capsule-ready pieces, such as:
- Neutral tones
- Minimalist designs
- Layering-friendly basics
Verdict:
For seasonal trends and fashion risks, go with Hollister. For longevity and minimalism, Abercrombie is your best bet.
Final Verdict: Which Offers Better Value?
💡 Choose Hollister If You Want:
- A fun, budget-friendly hoodie you can wear often
- More color and style variety
- A youthful, casual look
- Great sales and frequent new drops
💡 Choose Abercrombie If You Want:
- A more refined, durable hoodie with luxury feel
- Classic, elevated wardrobe staples
- Inclusive sizing and better long-term fit
- Premium details worth the higher price
Bottom Line:
Both Hollister and Abercrombie offer good value in their own ways. If you’re price-sensitive and want style flexibility, Hollister hoodies are a smart choice. But if you’re willing to invest a little more for elevated quality and lasting comfort, Abercrombie may give you the best return over time.