The Sisterhood Hoodie Trend: Origins, Meaning, and Style Tips

The Rise of Sisterhood Hoodies

In recent years, a new fashion trend has emerged - the sisterhood hoodie. These oversized, cozy hoodies often feature phrases like "Sisters Before Misters" or "Girl Gang" on the front or back. Sisterhood hoodies are hugely popular among young women and have become symbolic of female empowerment and solidarity.

So where did the sisterhood hoodie trend come from and why has it blown up so quickly? Here's a closer look at the origins and meaning behind this viral fashion statement.

The History of Sisterhood Hoodies

Sisterhood hoodies first started appearing in the early 2010s, around the time of the rise of social media. Small independent brands realized there was a demand for clothes celebrating female friendships and began creating hoodies with cheeky "squad goals" type phrases.

The trend was quickly picked up by fast fashion retailers who mass-produced inexpensive sisterhood hoodies. Celebrities like the Kardashians began wearing matching sisterhood hoodies, which propelled the trend into the mainstream.

Sisterhood hoodies align perfectly with third wave feminism and girl power culture. They allow women to outwardly display their solidarity and shared identity. The oversized style also ties into the body positivity movement by embracing comfiness over skintight clothing.

Why Sisterhood Hoodies Have Become So Popular

There are several key factors that explain the explosive popularity of sisterhood hoodies:

• They are the perfect Instagrammable fashion item. Sisterhood hoodies photograph well and are ideal for coordinated group shots.
• Celebrities and influencers have fueled the trend by constantly wearing matching versions.
• They are affordable, widely available, and on-trend.
• The rise of online shopping has enabled the trend to spread globally.
• Hoodies are comfortable and practical for lounging and casual wear.
• The slogans appeal to teenage girls, college students, and nostalgic Millennial women.

Essentially, sisterhood hoodies combine fashion and function while delivering a message of empowerment. The relatable statements and inclusivity of the trend resonate with the target demographic.

Different Types of Sisterhood Hoodies

There are a few common phrase themes that appear on most sisterhood hoodies:

• Girl gang/squad - These focus on friendship between a tight-knit group of women.
• "Sisters before misters" - These prioritize female friendship over romantic relationships.
• Feminist phrases - Some feature mottos like "Girl Power" or "The Future is Female."
• Cheeky phrases - You'll see sayings like "Sleep Deprived But Well Dressed."
• Mommy hoodies - These have phrases about raising daughters or bonding with your girls.

Companies like Holy Hoodie have expanded into creating sisterhood hoodies for specific niches like yogis, nurses, teachers, and sorority sisters. The look is also popular for bachelorette parties, family trips, or birthday presents.

Where to Buy Sisterhood Hoodies

Almost every clothing retailer sells some version of sisterhood hoodies these days. Here are some of the most popular places to buy them:

• Etsy - For unique customized or vintage options.
• Amazon - For mass-produced designs with Prime shipping.
• Forever 21, H&M - Affordable fast fashion versions.
• Holy Hoodie, Wild Fable Co - Trendy indie brands.
• Shopbop, Revolve - For more expensive designer takes.
• Sorority shops - For Greek life sisterhood gear.

The best part about sisterhood hoodies is you can buy matching sets for your whole squad. Most brands offer the same designs in a choice of colors. Prices range from about $20 for a basic version up to $100 for a premium or customized hoodie.

How to Style Sisterhood Hoodies

While sisterhood hoodies are comfortable, you can elevate your look and avoid appearing sloppy. Here are some stylish ways to wear your sisterhood hoodie:

• Pair with jeans or leggings - go for a casual vibe.
• Add some layered necklaces or earrings - gives a touch of flair.
• Tie it around your waist - turns it into a statement piece.
• Wear it off one shoulder - looks chic and trendy.
• Crop it - cut a too-big hoodie to be crop top length.
• Dress it up with heels or boots - balances the casual hoodie.
• Cuff the sleeves - looks cool and put together.

The oversized style of most sisterhood hoodies makes them ideal for layering. Wear a collared shirt or sweater underneath, then add the hoodie on top. You can also throw on a stylish jacket like a bomber, denim, or leather jacket.

Criticisms of Sisterhood Hoodies

While sisterhood hoodies are beloved by many, some critics have argued:

• They promote excessive consumerism and waste, since people buy multiple versions.
• The designs are unoriginal and quickly become dated.
• They stereotype feminine friendships as superficial.
• The "sisters before misters" trope is overly simplistic.
• Some feel pressured to buy matching sets to fit in.

However, most fans of the trend don't take sisterhood hoodies overly seriously. The lighthearted slogans and coordinating aesthetic simply offer an easy way to visibly show belonging and connection.

The Future of Sisterhood Hoodies

While sisterhood hoodies may eventually fade from popularity, they have cemented their place in fashion history. The trend perfectly encapsulated 2010s style and zeitgeist. It also opened the door for messaging printed hoodies and athleisure wear as a form of personal expression.

For now, sisterhood hoodies show no signs of going out of style. With inclusive sizing, natural fabrics, and body positive slogans, they are likely here to stay. Sisterhood hoodie brands are also expanding into new designs that move beyond just phrases.

Sisterhood hoodies have also taken on broader meaning as symbols of female empowerment and resistance in the era of #MeToo. Their popularity reflects how Generation Z is prioritizing authentic self-expression, diversity, and social awareness.

At their core, sisterhood hoodies celebrate the enduring power of supportive female communities. Their nostalgic slogans and cozy style will continue inspiring girls and women for years to come.

FAQs

When did sisterhood hoodies become popular?

Sisterhood hoodies first emerged in the early 2010s and rapidly grew into a mainstream fashion trend by the mid 2010s thanks to social media and celebrity influence.

What makes sisterhood hoodies so popular?

Factors like their Instagrammable look, celebrity endorsement, affordability, inclusive messaging, and comfortable style have all contributed to the popularity of sisterhood hoodies.

Where can I buy a sisterhood hoodie?

You can find sisterhood hoodies at most clothing retailers like Etsy, Amazon, fast fashion shops, indie brands, sorority stores, and designer websites.

What are some stylish ways to wear a sisterhood hoodie?

Style your sisterhood hoodie with jeans, layer necklaces, tie it around your waist, wear off one shoulder, crop it, dress it up with heels, or cuff the sleeves.

What are common criticisms of the sisterhood hoodie trend?

Some argue sisterhood hoodies promote consumerism, have unoriginal designs, stereotype female friendships, or create pressure to buy matching sets.