The Comfy, Cozy Story Behind Canada's Ampersand Ave Hoodie Obsession

The Story Behind the Ampersand Ave Hoodie Craze

In the last few years, Ampersand Ave hoodies have become an iconic staple in many people's wardrobes. With their stylish designs and ultra-soft fabrics, it's easy to see why these hoodies have developed such a cult following. But where did the Ampersand Ave hoodie phenomenon begin?

The Origins of Ampersand Ave

Ampersand Ave is a Canadian clothing boutique that specializes in laidback, comfortable styles for men and women. The company was founded in 2010 in Edmonton, Alberta by husband and wife team Sam and Jen. As small business owners themselves, they were inspired to create clothes that blended fashion and function - stylish enough for a night out but comfy enough for everyday wear.

The Ampersand Ave hoodie was one of their first signature pieces. Sam and Jen designed it to be the ultimate cozy hoodie - made of soft cotton with a relaxed fit and kangaroo pocket. Little did they know this hoodie would soon become a must-have item across Canada and beyond!

Why Ampersand Ave Hoodies Blew Up

There are a few key reasons why Ampersand Ave hoodies have become so popular over the past decade:

• Quality materials - They use super soft, midweight cotton fleece that gets better with wear.
• Trendy designs - Ampersand offers the hoodie in on-trend colors and patterns each season.
• Comfortable fit - The hoodies have a roomy but flattering silhouette.
• Word-of-mouth hype - As more people tried them, rave reviews spread on social media.
• Canadian pride - Ampersand's local Alberta roots struck a chord with customers across Canada.

Within a few years, the Ampersand hoodie went from a small business success story to a staple in closets from Vancouver to Newfoundland. People loved repping this comfy, quality Canadian brand.

The #AmpersandHoodie Craze Goes Viral

In 2016, Ampersand Ave hoodies went from popular to viral sensation. That fall, the #ampersandhoodie hashtag started trending on Instagram and Twitter as people showed off their hoodies. Bloggers, influencers, and celebrities posted pics rocking Ampersand gear.

What sparked this hoodie hype? According to Jen, it was a combination of Canadians' growing love for homegrown fashion brands and the launch of Ampersand's custom embroidered hoodies that fall. Young consumers went crazy for the chance to personalize their hoodies with initials, phrases, and emojis.

Social media poured gas on the Ampersand fire. Instagram posts of personalized and limited edition hoodies flooded feeds, making Ampersand hoodies the "it" item to own. Wearing one became a status symbol signalling you were hip, comfortable, and supported local business.

Ampersand Ave Goes Mainstream

Within the span of six years, Ampersand Ave went from fledgling startup to internationally-known brand. Their hoodies could be spotted on the streets of Toronto, small towns in northern Quebec, and everywhere in between.

Ampersand Ave is now sold by major retailers like Nordstrom and Revolve. Yet even as it's gone mainstream, Ampersand remains committed to its roots. All Ampersand hoodies are still designed in Edmonton and crafted from all-Canadian materials.

The owners have expanded their clothing lines and accessories too, but the OG hoodie remains one of their top-selling items. Although other companies have tried to replicate their success, nothing quite compares to that buttery-soft Ampersand Ave fleece.

Why People Are Still Obsessed with Ampersand Ave Hoodies

Even though the initial hype has died down, Ampersand Ave hoodies remain a closet staple for many Canadians. Here are some reasons why people are still obsessed with these hoodies:

They're Ridiculously Soft

The number one reason people love Ampersand hoodies? The fleece fabric is insanely soft and comfortable. Made from midweight cotton with a brushed fleece interior, it's the perfect weight to keep you cozy yet not too warm. The fleece lining and loose fit makes you feel like you're wearing a portable hug.

Customization Options

Another huge perk of Ampersand hoodies is the customization. You can customize a plain hoodie with embroidered accents like initials, numbers, logos or phrases. They offer the hoodies in multiple colors so you can match your vibe. The personalization options make them a great gift too - add someone's name or monogram to make it extra special.

Flattering Fit

Hoodies aren't usually known for their figure-flattering fits, but Ampersand Ave has mastered it. Their hoodies have a roomy feel without looking sloppy. Reviewers love the slightly oversized fit that's still tailored. The cotton/spandex blend and kangaroo pocket gives them a casual drape that flatters all body types.

Quality Materials

Unlike fast fashion brands, Ampersand Ave hoodies are made to last. They hold up incredibly well through countless washes and wears without losing their shape or softness. Ampersand only uses pre-shrunk cotton so they don't shrink. Their quality shows why it's worth investing a little more for a hoodie that will last years.

On-Trend Designs

Another reason Ampersand still has fans hooked is their trendy new prints and colors each season. They release fresh hoodie designs every fall and winter in of-the-moment styles. Recent popular patterns include tie-dye, colorblock, floral, and camo prints. Their cool graphics keep customers coming back year after year.

Who's Wearing Ampersand Ave Hoodies?

Ampersand Ave hoodies have become popular among all types of people:

Students

High school and university students love rocking Ampersand hoodies to class for a comfortable, casual vibe. Many schools have made custom-embroidered Ampersand hoodies for their mascot or school name.

Yogis

For yogis, the Ampersand hoodie is the perfect coverup to throw on after working up a sweat in yoga or pilates class. The soft fleece interior is ideal for relaxing in post-savasana.

Young Professionals

Pair an Ampersand hoodie with jeans or trousers for a polished yet relaxed work look. They've become a popular casual Friday office staple.

Celebrities

Even A-listers have jumped on the Ampersand bandwagon. Stars like Ryan Reynolds, Carrie Underwood, and Seth Rogen have all rocked Ampersand Ave hoodies.

Soccer Moms

For on-the-go moms, an Ampersand hoodie makes a great errand-running or carpool outfit. The softness and ease of throw-on-and-go style is perfect for busy parents.

Tips for Styling Ampersand Ave Hoodies

Here are some style tips to look amazing while rocking your favorite Ampersand hoodie:

Pair it With Leggings or Skinny Jeans

Balance the slouchy hoodie with fitted pants like leggings or skinny jeans. Add some slip-on sneakers to complete the sporty weekend look.

Dress it Up With Heels

For an easy workwear outfit, wear your hoodie with dark denim and heels. Amp up accessories like earrings and an oversized tote.

Layer a Blazer or Leather Jacket Overtop

Add some structured layers like a tailored blazer or moto jacket over your hoodie. This creates dimension for a downtown chic vibe.

Cuff the Sleeves

For a more polished effect, cuff the sleeves once or twice to show off a peek of wrist. This gives your hoodie a more styled look.

Let it Make a Subtle Statement

If your hoodie has a cool graphic or embroidered phrase, let it take center stage. Keep the rest of your look simple to highlight the Ampersand statement details.

The Future for Ampersand Ave Hoodies

A decade after first hitting the scene, Ampersand Ave hoodies are still going strong. They've secured their place as a comfy Canadian fashion essential.

Moving forward, fans can expect exciting new hoodie drops from Ampersand each season. The fall/winter 2022 collection features lovely lilac and sage green tie-dyes, perfect for cozy style this year.

As longtime fans know, the magic of Ampersand Ave is their staying power. Their hoodies transcend temporary trends with their supreme softness, quality, and style. We can't wait to see what they come up with next - but we know we'll be rocking Ampersand hoodies for years to come!

FAQs

What makes Ampersand Ave hoodies so soft?

Ampersand Ave hoodies are made from a custom midweight cotton fleece that has a super soft brushed interior lining. This fleecy cotton provides insulating warmth while remaining lightweight and comfortable.

What colors and styles of hoodies does Ampersand Ave offer?

Ampersand Ave releases new hoodie colors and prints each season. Their hoodies come in classic shades like black, grey, and navy as well as trendy prints like camo, tie-dye, and colorblock. You can shop hoodies in crewneck, zip-up, and pullover styles.

How do you care for an Ampersand hoodie?

Ampersand Ave hoodies can be machine washed cold and tumble dried on low. Avoid washing with harsh detergents or bleach, and don't iron directly on any embroidered details. These hoodies are pre-shrunk so they won't shrink much with proper care.

Can you customize an Ampersand Ave hoodie?

Yes! One of the brand's most popular options is custom-embroidered hoodies. You can add initials, names, phrases, emojis, or monograms to make your hoodie one-of-a-kind.

Where are Ampersand Ave hoodies manufactured?

Even as the brand has grown, all Ampersand Ave apparel is designed and produced locally in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. They use local Canadian materials as much as possible.