The Story and History Behind the Iconic Have a Good Day Smiley Hoodie

The Story Behind the Have a Good Day Hoodie

The now iconic Have a Good Day hoodie featuring a smiley face was first designed in the 1970s by two brothers in Philadelphia, Bernard and Harold Spitzer. The Spitzer brothers owned a graphics design company and were looking to create a feel-good image that would resonate with the public during a turbulent time in America.

After going through multiple iterations, they finally settled on the smiling face design with the words "Have A Nice Day" underneath. Bernard came up with saying as an uplifting message to spread positivity. The image and phrase together aimed to encourage people to have hope during difficult circumstances.

Initially, the design was printed on posters and buttons and sold in gift shops. However, in 1972, the Spitzers began mass producing the image on t-shirts and sweatshirts after realizing the design's potential. The apparel took off in popularity almost immediately.

By the mid-1970s, Have a Nice Day merchandise was being sold internationally. Over 50 million t-shirts featuring the iconic smiley face had been sold worldwide. The Have a Good Day hoodie became one of the most sought-after items.

Cultural Significance and Backlash

The Have a Good Day hoodie and other merchandise quickly embedded itself in American pop culture in the 1970s and 1980s. The smiley face epitomized the hippie peace-and-love ethos of the era. It became a defining symbol of 70s fashion and culture.

However, not everyone appreciated the hoodie's mass commercialization. Some viewed it as a crass method of cashing in on wholesome values for profit. A backlash emerged against the perceived cheapening of the "have a nice day" message through rampant merchandising.

Nonetheless, the hoodie's popularity prevailed. Today, it remains an iconic symbol of 70s nostalgia and positivity.

The Hoodie in Modern Times

Even after almost 50 years, the Have a Good Day hoodie continues to be a staple fashion item. Its appeal crosses generations. For older generations, it's a nostalgic retro piece that harkens back to the 70s and 80s.

Younger generations appreciate the smiley face graphic for its kitschy vintage vibe. They may not be aware of the deeper cultural significance behind the design.

The Have a Good Day hoodie enjoys renewed spikes in popularity periodically. In the 90s, the hoodie became trendy once again when 70s retro style came back into fashion. Smiley merchandise also surged during the early 2000s.

Today, many celebrities have been spotted wearing Have a Good Day hoodies, from supermodels like Hailey Bieber to pop stars like Taylor Swift. This has sparked fresh interest in the smiley face hoodie among fans.

Besides the original "Have a Nice Day" wording, the smiley face graphic now appears on hoodies with all kinds of clever sayings, like "Have a Good Day" or "Make Today Ridiculously Amazing."

The Have a Good Day hoodie remains a testament to the power of simple, positive messages. In a world where cynicism often reigns, we still yearn for heart-warming sentiment. The Spitzer brothers tapped into that desire remarkably with their now ageless design.

Where to Buy the Have a Good Day Hoodie

Due to the Have a Good Day hoodie's enduring popularity, many retailers carry it. Here are some of the best places to buy the iconic smiley hoodie:

Urban Outfitters

This popular youth-oriented retailer has an assortment of vintage-looking Have a Good Day hoodies in various colors like pink, white, yellow, and classic black. Expect to pay $54-$64 for one.

Zumiez

Known for stocking youthful, trendy apparel, Zumiez sells several Have a Good Day hoodies with a distressed, retro style. Prices range from $39.95-$59.95.

MODCLOTH

MODCLOTH has a cute, pastel blue Have a Nice Day hoodie for women. It costs $49. You'll also find Have a Good Day t-shirts and other apparel.

Amazon

Amazon carries a massive range of Have a Good Day hoodies in different colors, styles, and prices. The Gildan brand hoodies are very affordable at around $18. Higher end hoodies go up to $50.

Redbubble

Independent artists upload their own Have a Good Day hoodie designs to Redbubble. There are many creative smiley face interpretations to choose from. Hoodies cost between $41-$60.

How to Style Your Have a Good Day Hoodie

The beauty of the Have a Good Day hoodie is its versatility. It can be styled in many ways - preppy, grunge, retro, or modern. Here are some style tips:

Preppy

Pair it with jeans or khakis, and lace-up sneakers for a casual preppy look. Add a collared shirt underneath for a more polished vibe.

Hippie Chic

Channel 70s vibes by wearing the hoodie over a floral maxi dress and platform shoes. Finish with retro sunglasses.

Streetwear

Crop the hoodie and wear it with high-waisted jeans. Add chunky dad sneakers to complete the streetstyle look.

Minimalist

For an understated look, wear the Have a Good Day hoodie with leggings and white sneakers. A low bun and small hoops pull it all together.

Retro Casual

Boyfriend jeans, white kicks, and retro glasses give off a 70s-90s vibe. Keep your hair and makeup natural.

However you choose to style it, the Have a Good Day hoodie is sure to add a smile-inducing boost to any outfit!

FAQs

Who originally designed the Have a Good Day hoodie?

The Have a Good Day hoodie featuring a smiley face was designed in the early 1970s by Bernard and Harold Spitzer, brothers who owned a graphics design company in Philadelphia.

What was the original phrase on the hoodie?

The original wording underneath the smiley face graphic was "Have A Nice Day." The phrase "Have a Good Day" emerged later as a variation.

How did the hoodie become so popular?

The Spitzers began mass producing the design on t-shirts and hoodies in 1972. The comfortable, feel-good apparel took off almost immediately, selling over 50 million t-shirts globally by the mid 70s.

Who wears the Have a Good Day hoodie today?

The hoodie remains popular across generations, from retro-loving adults to teenagers and celebrities wanting to channel a vintage vibe.

Where are some places you can buy the hoodie?

Major retailers like Urban Outfitters, Zumiez and Amazon carry Have a Good Day hoodies. You can also find unique designs from independent artists on sites like Redbubble.