Shirts, trousers and basics
How to wear a hoodie past 25
By sneakersInn team · Updated
To wear a hoodie well past your mid-twenties, choose a plain one in solid cotton with a clean fit (no big graphics, no stretched cuffs), and pair it with good trousers, clean sneakers and, when you want to look sharper, a structured layer like a denim jacket, overshirt or overcoat. The contrast between a casual hoodie and smarter pieces is what makes it look grown up.
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Plain grey, navy, black, olive, cream | Big slogans and graphics |
| Heavy cotton that holds its shape | Thin, stretched fleece |
| Shoulder seam on your shoulder | Huge, shapeless fits |
| Ends at your belt | Hanging to mid-thigh |
| Clean sneakers | Worn-out slides |
Five grown-up hoodie outfits
- Grey hoodie, navy chinos, white leather sneakers.
- Black hoodie under a denim jacket, black jeans, black sneakers.
- Navy hoodie under an olive overshirt, stone chinos.
- Cream hoodie, olive cargos, retro runners.
- Grey hoodie under a navy overcoat, dark jeans (travel in cold places).
See the 5 jackets every man should have and overshirts.
Pullover or zip?
A pullover is cleaner under jackets; a zip hoodie is easier to adjust in Accra's mix of heat and air conditioning.
Is a hoodie too warm for Accra?
For midday, usually. Choose lighter cotton or loopback jersey for evenings, flights and air-conditioned spaces.
Where can I wear a hoodie?
Weekends, travel, the gym, casual hangouts and creative offices. Not to church, weddings, interviews or business casual workplaces. See the 5 dress codes every man should understand.
How do I keep it looking new?
Wash inside out in cool water, don't tumble dry, and fold rather than hang so the shoulders don't stretch. See clothing care 101.
Questions
Can I wear a hoodie under a blazer?
It's a fashion look that works with a relaxed, unstructured blazer and a plain hoodie. Keep the rest simple.
Which sneakers go with hoodies?
Almost any clean pair. See the 5 sneakers every man needs in his rotation.