The Essentials Hoodie by Fear of God is one of the most sought-after pieces in modern streetwear. With its clean design, oversized silhouette, and premium construction, it’s more than just a hoodie—it’s a cultural icon. But before you hit “buy,” it’s important to know what you’re getting into.
Whether you’re new to the brand or a longtime fan, this guide will walk you through everything you should know before buying an Essentials hoodie, from sizing and authenticity to care and style tips.
1. Understand the Brand: Fear of God vs. Essentials
Before anything else, it’s important to understand that Essentials is a diffusion line under Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God brand.
- Fear of God is the main luxury label: high fashion, high prices, limited runs.
- Essentials is more accessible, focusing on everyday basics like hoodies, tees, and sweatpants—at a lower price point, but with the same design ethos.
Key takeaway: Essentials is not a knockoff—it’s the official Fear of God basics line created for broader accessibility.
2. Know the Price Range
Essentials hoodies typically retail between $90–$120, but due to limited drops and high demand, they often:
- Sell out quickly
- Resell for $150 or more
- Appear on secondary markets like StockX, GOAT, or Grailed
Pro Tip: If you’re buying from resellers, make sure the price is fair and the product is authentic.
3. Check the Fit: It’s Oversized on Purpose
Essentials hoodies are known for their intentionally oversized fit, featuring:
- Dropped shoulders
- A wide chest
- Longer sleeves and torso
If you prefer a regular or slim fit, consider sizing down. If you want that streetwear-heavy look, go true to size or even size up for dramatic volume.
Fit Tip: Always consult the official size chart or check YouTube try-on videos to get a sense of scale.
4. Be Smart About Where You Buy
The safest way to buy an Essentials hoodie is through official retailers, such as:
- Fear of God (essentials.fearofgod.com)
- SSENSE
- Mr Porter
- PacSun (a major drop partner for Essentials)
If you’re using resale platforms, always:
- Ask for real photos
- Request proof of purchase if possible
- Compare tags and labels to verified originals
5. Learn How to Spot Fakes
With so many replicas on the market, knowing the authenticity markers is key. Look for:
- High-quality stitching and heavyweight material
- Correct logo placement and font
- Rubberized label on the back of the neck
- Woven tags that say “Essentials” and “Fear of God”
- Clean packaging (often zip bags with branding)
Avoid anything with:
- Cheap plastic-feeling logos
- Spelling errors or inconsistent fonts
- Prices that are “too good to be true”
6. Expect Seasonal Drops, Not Year-Round Stock
Essentials hoodies are not available year-round. They release in seasonal collections, often announced via:
- Fear of God’s social media
- PacSun newsletters
- Streetwear forums and blogs
Once the collection drops, it sells out quickly. So be ready to act fast or turn to resellers.
7. Choose the Right Color for Your Wardrobe
Essentials releases a rotating selection of neutral colorways, including:
- Black
- Gray
- Taupe
- Buttercream
- Desert Sage
- Wood or Harvest tones
Each drop introduces slight variations in tone, so keep your existing wardrobe in mind before choosing.
Style Tip: If it’s your first hoodie, go for a neutral like black or taupe to maximize versatility.
8. Know How to Care for It Properly
To keep your hoodie looking fresh:
- Machine wash cold on gentle cycle
- Avoid bleach or fabric softeners
- Air dry or tumble dry low
- Turn inside out when washing to protect branding
With proper care, Essentials hoodies hold their shape and feel for years.
9. Think Beyond the Hype
While Essentials is definitely trendy, it’s also built for timeless style. If you’re just buying it for hype, you may be disappointed. But if you appreciate:
- Premium basics
- Elevated minimalism
- Functional streetwear
Then you’ll likely get a lot of wear out of it.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy an Essentials Hoodie?
Yes—if you’re looking for quality streetwear with a refined look and feel.
The Essentials hoodie is a smart investment in everyday fashion. It’s versatile enough for casual fits, stylish enough to dress up, and cozy enough to wear on repeat. But be mindful of sizing, resale pricing, and authenticity before you purchase.
Quick Checklist Before You Buy:
✅ Confirm sizing
✅ Choose a trusted retailer
✅ Pick a wearable color
✅ Check for signs of authenticity
✅ Know how to care for it
With the right knowledge, your Fear of God Essentials hoodie will quickly become one of the most worn—and most admired—pieces in your wardrobe.