What Size Essentials Hoodie Should You Actually Get?

The Essentials hoodie by Fear of God has become one of the most recognizable staples in modern streetwear. With its clean lines, neutral colors, and oversized silhouette, it’s easy to see why it's a go-to item for so many people. But while the design may be simple, figuring out the right size is anything but.

Essentials hoodies are intentionally oversized, which means choosing the right fit depends more on your personal style than just standard measurements. If you're unsure whether to size up, down, or stay true to size, this guide will help you understand how the hoodie fits, how to choose your size, and what to expect once it’s on your body.

Understanding the Fit: Oversized by Design

Fear of God’s Essentials line is built on the concept of minimal, elevated basics that feel both luxurious and wearable. One of the key elements of the Essentials hoodie is its oversized cut. This isn't a mistake or a manufacturing flaw—it’s entirely intentional.

The hoodie features a wide, boxy fit, dropped shoulders, and slightly longer sleeves and body. It’s meant to look relaxed, slouchy, and effortless. This aesthetic reflects a larger trend in streetwear where clothes aren’t designed to hug the body but to drape over it.

Because of this oversized construction, your usual size won’t give you a snug fit. In fact, going with your true size will likely result in a loose, relaxed silhouette that feels more casual and street-ready.

True to Size: The Standard Streetwear Look

If you want to wear your Essentials hoodie the way it was designed to be worn, go true to size. This will give you a boxy, oversized fit without overwhelming your frame. The hoodie will hang naturally off your shoulders and give you that laid-back, off-duty look that has become so popular in recent years.

Wearing your normal size is ideal for those who appreciate streetwear in its purest form. It’s roomy enough to layer over tees and under jackets, which adds versatility to your styling options. It also gives the hoodie a strong silhouette that looks intentional rather than ill-fitting.

Many Essentials fans who are used to contemporary streetwear brands tend to stick with their regular sizing for that iconic fit.

Sizing Down: A More Tailored Look

For some people, the oversized fit might feel too extreme. Maybe you’re shorter, more petite, or simply prefer clothing that’s closer to your frame. In this case, sizing down one full size is often the best move.

When you size down, the hoodie becomes more fitted around the body and sleeves, but still retains its relaxed vibe. It’s a great option if you want to wear the hoodie with slimmer pants, skirts, or under more structured outerwear.

People who are newer to streetwear or come from a background of more fitted fashion often feel more comfortable sizing down, as it gives a cleaner look without completely losing the brand’s intended feel.

Sizing Up: Extra Volume, Extra Comfort

If you want that ultra-oversized look, sizing up is the way to go. This is especially popular among fans who like to wear their Essentials hoodie with baggy cargos, wide-leg denim, or layered outfits that emphasize volume.

Sizing up gives you more length, more room, and more fabric to work with. It can turn the hoodie into a statement piece that feels almost like outerwear. It's ideal for colder months when you want to layer thermals or tees underneath.

Just keep in mind that going too big might cause the hoodie to look baggy in areas like the arms and hem, which isn’t for everyone. But for those who embrace oversized fits, it's a comfortable and stylish choice.

How It Fits Across Different Body Types

The Essentials hoodie is designed to be unisex, which makes it a flexible option for a wide range of body types. However, how it looks on you will depend on your height, build, and proportions.

For shorter individuals, the hoodie may feel longer than expected. The sleeves might come down past the wrists, and the body may extend closer to mid-thigh. In these cases, sizing down can help create a more balanced look.

For taller or broader people, the oversized fit usually works well straight out of the box. The proportions remain flattering, and the hoodie drapes naturally without looking too large or too tight.

If you’re in between sizes or have a specific style in mind, it’s helpful to look at how others with similar body types are wearing it. Social media platforms like TikTok and Reddit are filled with real-world examples that can guide your decision.

Materials and Shrinkage: What to Expect

The Essentials hoodie is made from a cotton-polyester blend that’s thick, soft, and structured. This fabric helps the hoodie hold its shape over time, even after multiple wears and washes.

Because of this material blend, shrinkage is minimal to none—especially if you follow proper care instructions. Always wash your hoodie in cold water and tumble dry on low or air dry when possible. Don’t expect the hoodie to shrink into a smaller size after washing.

This is important to remember when choosing your size. You should base your decision on how it fits out of the package, not how you think it will fit after laundering.

How Fans Style Their Fit

How you want your hoodie to look is just as important as how it fits. Essentials hoodies are extremely versatile, and fans around the world style them in a variety of ways depending on their size choice.

Those who go true to size often wear theirs with loose pants, sneakers, and layered chains for a full streetwear vibe. They embrace the oversized nature and let the hoodie be the focal point.

Fans who size down typically opt for a cleaner silhouette. They might pair it with slim trousers, tucked-in shirts underneath, or even skirts for a more elevated casual look. This approach turns the hoodie into more of a fashion item than a cozy staple.

Those who size up tend to go all-in on the oversized aesthetic. These outfits often feature chunky shoes, wide cargos, oversized essentials shirt beanies, and layered shirts peeking from underneath. The hoodie becomes part of a larger, structured look that plays with volume and proportion.

Where to Try or Buy

If possible, try on the hoodie before buying. Retailers like SSENSE, PacSun, and some designer boutiques stock Essentials pieces seasonally. When in-store options aren’t available, always refer to the brand’s sizing chart online and look at customer reviews.

If you're ordering from an online platform or resale site, double-check whether the hoodie is from the latest drop or a past collection, as sizing may vary slightly between seasons.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Fit That Feels Right

There’s no single “correct” size for the Essentials hoodie. The real answer depends on your personal style, how you like your clothes to fit, and how you plan to wear the piece. The oversized design gives you freedom—freedom to style it your way, wear it your way, and size it your way.

If you want a hoodie that delivers classic streetwear vibes, go with your true size. If you’re looking for something more refined, sizing down can give you a sharper look. And if you want to make a statement or prioritize comfort, sizing up might be exactly what you need.

Whichever you choose, one thing’s for sure: once you wear an Essentials hoodie, it’ll become a core piece in your wardrobe. Because when it fits right—not just in size, but in feel—it doesn’t just elevate your outfit. It defines your style.