The Glitzy Evolution of Rhinestone Full Zip Up Hoodies in Fashion

The Origin and Evolution of Rhinestone Full Zip Up Hoodies

In recent years, rhinestone full zip up hoodies have emerged as a popular fashion trend, particularly among Gen Z consumers and influencers. But where did this eye-catching look originate from and how did it evolve into a stylish must-have item?

The Rise of Rhinestones in Fashion

Rhinestones first became popular in clothing during the Roaring Twenties. The sparkling artificial gems offered an affordable alternative to diamonds that allowed everyday women to add some glitz to their wardrobes. Rhinestones adorned flapper dresses, shoes, and jewelry during the Jazz Age.

Rhinestones faded from popularity during the Great Depression and WWII eras. But they came back in a major way during the opulent 1980s. Rhinestones studded denim jackets, t-shirts, accessories and more. Pop stars like Madonna often dripped in rhinestones during live performances and music videos, influencing followers to embrace the flashy embellishments.

Hoodies Become Mainstream

Hoodies emerged as popular sportswear in the 1930s, originally worn by workers and athletes to keep warm. Champion helped popularize the hoodie in the mass market. Hip hop culture propelled hoodies into a mainstream fashion staple in the 1990s. Offering both comfort and streetwise edge, hoodies became a generational touchstone among Gen X and Millennials.

The Rise of Athleisure Fashion

As casual athletic clothing continued gaining wider social acceptance into the 2000s, the athleisure fashion movement was born. High demand for comfortable, fitness-inspired sportswear for everyday wear spurred this market's growth. The hoodie fit perfectly into athleisure wardrobes as a cozy top with a laidback vibe.

The Rhinestone Hoodie Trend Emerges

In recent years, Gen Z creators and influencers have embraced mixing glam elements like rhinestones with casual staples like hoodies. This trend likely arose organically as young trendsetters sought new ways to put a special touch on comfortable closet favorites. The juxtaposition between elegant rhinestones and casual hoodies creates an intriguing visual clash.

Startups and independent designers helped fuel the rhinestone hoodie craze through their own takes on the look. Mainstream brands and retailers eventually joined the action. Now rhinestone hoodies are widely available at stores like Forever21, ASOS, and online at sites like Etsy.

Reasons for the Rhinestone Hoodie Craze

So what exactly is driving the mass appeal of rhinestone embellished hoodies?

• They make an ordinary hoodie feel more special and unique.
• The sparkle effect brings a fun, playful vibe.
• Rhinestones create an eye-catching statement piece.
• They display a mix of feminine and sporty vibes.
• Rhinestones elevate a casual hoodie for a night out.
• The look pairs well with other current trends like Y2K and kidcore fashion.
• Influencers and celebs sporting rhinestone hoodies inspire fans.
• The combination of comfort and glam provides versatile styling potential.

How to Style Rhinestone Hoodies

One reason rhinestone hoodies have become so trendy is their versatility. Here are some top ways to sport the sparkling hoodie style:

• For an ultra casual look, pair it with leggings or bike shorts and sneakers.
• Balance the hoodie glitter with distressed jeans and combat boots.
• Create an evening-ready outfit by layering it over a slip dress.
• Contrast the sporty hoodie with a mini skirt or leather pants.
• Mix with other youthful pieces like a plaid skirt and knee socks.
• Add some edge by topping it with a leather jacket.
• Wear it over a plain white tee and jeans for a simple daytime look.
• Sparkle up an LBD by throwing the hoodie over your shoulders.

Where to Buy Rhinestone Hoodies

Major retailers carrying rhinestone hoodies include:

• Forever21
• ASOS
• Nasty Gal
• Revolve
• Nordstrom
• Urban Outfitters
• Missguided
• PrettyLittleThing

For unique finds, check out sites like:

• Etsy - Tons of handmade options
• Depop - Cool one-of-a-kind vintage finds
• Dolls Kill - Edgy artistic styles

You can also find rhinestone hoodies from numerous independent designers on sites like Shopify and Big Cartel.

DIY Rhinestone Hoodie Ideas

Adding rhinestones to a basic hoodie yourself can be a fun DIY project. Here are some ideas:

• Use a glue gun to attach rhinestones in fun patterns.
• Create rhinestone lettering with your name or a word/phrase.
• Glue on rhinestones randomly for a sparkly effect.
• Add larger statement rhinestones to the sleeves or hood.
• Stick rhinestone ribbons along the seams or sides.
• Glue rhinestones around existing logo designs.
• Outline pockets with dazzling rhinestones.

The great thing about DIY rhinestone hoodies is you can customize it however you like. Have fun with colors, shapes, and arrangements.

The Future of Rhinestones in Fashion

If current trends are any indication, rhinestones will continue making frequent appearances in fashion. Gen Z and Millennials are driving the appetite for nostalgic Y2K and 80s inspired styles mixed with modern elements. The combo of comfort and glam provided by rhinestone hoodies aligns perfectly with these generational preferences.

As hoodies remain wardrobe staples and Gen Z consumers gain more buying power, expect to see rhinestone hoodies everywhere for years to come. Fashion is cyclical, so rhinestones will likely fade from the spotlight eventually only to remerge again down the road. But for now, rhinestones continue to shine bright in the comfy casual fashion space.

FAQs

How did rhinestone hoodies become popular?

Rhinestone hoodies emerged from the convergence of several fashion trends - the rise of athleisure, the resurgence of Y2K styles, and Gen Z's appetite for sparkly, glam details on casual clothing. As hoodies gained mass appeal, adding rhinestones became a way to dress up this wardrobe basic.

Who wears rhinestone hoodies?

Rhinestone hoodies are especially popular among Gen Zers and young Millennials drawn to Y2K inspired fashion. The look is frequently seen on social media influencers. Celebrities like Addison Rae, Bella Hadid and Megan Fox have also rocked rhinestone hoodies.

What do you wear with a rhinestone hoodie?

One of the best things about rhinestone hoodies is their versatility! You can wear them with leggings and sneakers for daytime or style them up for night by pairing with leather pants and heels. Rhinestone hoodies also look great layered over dresses.

Are rhinestone hoodies only for women?

While the rhinestone hoodie trend may be dominated by women, anyone can totally rock this sparkly look. Rhinestones add flair to men's hoodies too. Harry Styles and Lil Nas X have shown guys can pull them off in chic modern ways.

How can I make my own rhinestone hoodie?

It's easy to DIY a rhinestone hoodie at home. Buy a plain hoodie then use hot glue to affix rhinestones in fun patterns or designs. You can create your own custom look by spelling out words or names in rhinestones.