Honest Review: Is the 1977 Essentials Hoodie Worth the Hype?

The 1977 Essentials Hoodie from Fear of God’s Essentials line has made serious waves in the streetwear world. With its bold year print, muted colorways, and oversized fit, it’s become a go-to for fashion lovers who want luxury loungewear without the full designer price tag. But with all the social media buzz and fast sell-outs, one question remains: Is the 1977 Essentials Hoodie really worth the hype?

Here’s an honest breakdown of what you’re getting — the good, the average, and the overrated — so you can decide if this cult-favorite hoodie deserves a place in your wardrobe.


1. Design: Minimalism with a Statement

The standout feature of the 1977 Essentials Hoodie is the bold “1977” logo across the chest — a nod to designer Jerry Lorenzo’s birth year. It’s clean, intentional, and instantly recognizable.

  • Pros: Eye-catching but not loud; fits seamlessly with modern streetwear.
  • Cons: The design hasn’t changed much between drops, so if you’re looking for variety, it may feel repetitive.

Verdict: Stylish and wearable, especially for those who like a refined streetwear aesthetic.


2. Fit and Sizing: Oversized by Nature

This hoodie features:

  • Dropped shoulders
  • Boxy torso
  • Long sleeves
  • Roomy hood

It’s designed to be worn oversized, so going true-to-size will give you that classic streetwear look. If you want a more fitted shape, sizing down is an option — but it will still retain that roomy feel.

Verdict: Great for layering and comfort, but may overwhelm smaller frames unless styled intentionally.


3. Material Quality: Hefty but Comfortable

The 1977 Essentials Hoodie uses a cotton/polyester heavyweight fleece, offering a warm, structured feel with a soft interior.

  • Pros: Feels premium; maintains shape well; excellent for cooler weather.
  • Cons: May feel too thick for summer wear; can shrink slightly if washed improperly.

Verdict: Solid construction and comfort — one of the strongest selling points.


4. Branding and Details: Subtle Yet Elevated

Besides the “1977” chest print, you’ll find:

  • A rubberized “ESSENTIALS” patch on the hood
  • Clean, tonal stitching
  • Hidden seam construction for a modern finish

These small details elevate the hoodie without relying on flashy logos.

Verdict: Understated branding with designer-level attention to detail.


5. Price Point: Fair or Inflated?

Retail price typically ranges between $90–$110 USD, but due to high demand, resale prices can jump to $150–$250+ depending on colorway and condition.

  • For retail: Good value considering the quality and design.
  • For resale: Starts to feel overpriced unless you’re chasing a rare color drop.

Verdict: Worth it at retail — resale hype drives the price beyond what’s reasonable for some buyers.


6. Durability and Longevity

If you care for it properly (cold wash, hang dry), this hoodie will:

  • Hold its color well
  • Avoid major pilling
  • Retain its shape for years

The fabric blend is built for long-term wear, unlike some fast-fashion alternatives.

Verdict: A hoodie that lasts, not just a seasonal trend piece.


7. Versatility and Styling

Thanks to its neutral tones and minimal design, the 1977 hoodie is easy to style with:

  • Cargo pants
  • Joggers
  • Denim
  • Longline coats or puffer jackets

Whether you’re going for a laid-back or elevated casual look, it blends in effortlessly.

Verdict: A surprisingly flexible piece that works in most wardrobes.


Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype?

Buy It If:

  • You want a high-quality, heavyweight hoodie with designer flair.
  • You’re into oversized streetwear looks and neutral color palettes.
  • You can score it at or near retail price.

Skip It If:

  • You prefer slim or standard-fit hoodies.
  • You don’t care about branding or trends.
  • You’re not comfortable paying above retail for hyped drops.

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

The 1977 Essentials Hoodie delivers on comfort, quality, and aesthetics. It’s not just hype — but it’s not essential for everyone. If you love clean streetwear and oversized layers, this hoodie is a strong addition to your rotation. Just be mindful of how much you’re paying and where you buy it.