The History and Style of Bloodline Hoodies in Hip Hop Fashion

The History of Bloodline Hoodies

Hoodies have become a staple fashion item, especially in streetwear and hip hop culture. One brand that has become synonymous with hoodies is Bloodline. Bloodline was founded in the early 1990s by Layzie Bone of the legendary rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Layzie wanted to create a clothing line that represented the group's music and style. The first Bloodline hoodies featured the BTNH logo and iconic crossbones graphic.

Soon other members of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, including Krayzie Bone, Wish Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, and Bizzy Bone were repping Bloodline hoodies on stage and in music videos. As the group gained popularity in the mid 90s, the Bloodline brand grew too. The unique style and designs made Bloodline hoodies popular among hip hop heads and fans of the group.

The Significance of Bloodline Hoodies

For Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Bloodline hoodies represented more than just clothes. The brand gave them a way to create their own identity and promote their music. The bold BTNH logos and graphics were key to their early streetwear image. Fans wore Bloodline hoodies to rep the quick-tongued Cleveland rappers.

Beyond just Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Bloodline hoodies also became staples in 90s hip hop fashion overall. They were a statement and helped define the streetwear aesthetic. The oversized hoodies were a touchstone of the baggy clothes trend. Bloodline also paved the way for other rap artists to launch their own successful clothing brands.

Bloodline Designs

Over the years, Bloodline has released many iconic hoodie designs. Some of the most popular Bloodline hoodies include:

• The original BTNH logo hoodie featuring the group name and crossbones graphic
• The Cleveland Bloodline hoodie repping their Ohio hometown
• Collaboration hoodies with artists like Tupac and Biggie Smalls
• Hoodies featuring album cover graphics like Art of War and E. 1999 Eternal
• Bandana print hoodies with paisley and graffiti designs
• Jersey-style hoodies featuring sports team logos and city names

Bloodline is known for using graphics, photos, and text inspired by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's music. For example hoodies with lyrics, song titles, or references to their album art. This gives each design a special connection to their songs.

Bloodline Today

Today Bloodline continues to be an active clothing brand run by Layzie Bone. They release new hoodie designs regularly, mostly online but also through select retail stores. While styles and trends have changed, that classic oversized Bloodline hoodie remains an iconic look.

Beyond the original group members, you'll now see collaborations with other artists representing the brand. Rappers like ASAP Ferg, Wiz Khalifa, and Logic have all released Bloodline hoodies over the years. The brand maintains strong ties to hip hop culture.

After starting out in the 90s golden era of rap, Bloodline hoodies are now appealing to younger crowds. With streetwear more popular than ever, the vintage Bloodline styles offer a unique way for new artists and fans to pay homage to the past. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's music lives on through the Bloodline brand they created.

Buying Authentic Bloodline Hoodies

Because Bloodline hoodies are associated with 90s nostalgia and hip hop culture, there is a market for both authentic and counterfeit versions. When shopping for real Bloodline hoodies, there are a few things to look out for.

Check Tags and Logos

Authentic Bloodline hoodies will have correct spelling, accurate logos, and high quality graphics screened or sewn on the fabric. Fakes may have misspelled or distorted logos. Check that the Bloodline and BTNH logos look crisp and professionally done.

Look for Official Labels

The hem, sleeve or side tag on an authentic Bloodline hoodie will have the official Bloodline label stitched on. This works like a proof of authenticity. Counterfeits will often have no label, a fake label, or the label in the wrong location.

Examine the Materials

Real Bloodline hoodies are made with thick, quality materials like cotton, polyester and fleece. They should have nice weight and durability. Cheap knockoffs tend to be made with thin, flimsy fabrics that pill or fade after washing. Check the stitching to make sure it is tight and even.

Buy From Trusted Sellers

Buying directly from the Bloodline website or authorized retailers ensures authenticity. Well-reviewed resale sites like Grailed and eBay are safer bets too. But random websites or sellers with no reviews may be selling counterfeits.

By checking the labels, logos, materials and seller reviews, you can avoid fake Bloodline hoodies. This ensures you get the real, high quality iconic streetwear designs.

Wearing Bloodline Hoodies

Once you've got an authentic Bloodline hoodie, you'll want to wear it in classic streetwear style. Here are some tips for rocking Bloodline hoodies:

Go Oversized

That signature slouchy, baggy fit is key to the Bloodline hoodie look. Size up at least one, or even two sizes for an extra oversized shape.

Layer with Tees

Pair your Bloodline hoodie with a graphic tee or beater underneath. This creates the iconic streetwear layering effect.

Cuff the Sleeves

For a fresh style, cuff the ends of the sleeves 1-2 times. This "shortens" the long oversized sleeves for a neater look.

Rock with Baggy Jeans

Oversized denim like relaxed bootcuts or baggy jeans complement the loose Bloodline hoodie fit. Distressed jeans add extra street flair.

Add Statement Accessories

Put the finishing touch on your outfit with chain necklaces, nameplate pendants, basketball shorts and crew socks, clean sneakers like Air Force 1s or Retro Jordans.

Bloodline hoodies are staples in hip hop fashion because their bold style perfectly complements the culture. Now you can rock (and spot!) authentic Bloodline hoodies like the legends who made them famous. Keep repping BTNH!

FAQs

Who started the Bloodline clothing brand?

Bloodline was founded in the early 1990s by Layzie Bone of the rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. He wanted to create a clothing line to represent the group's music and personal style.

Where can I buy authentic Bloodline hoodies?

Your best bet is to buy directly from the official Bloodline website or authorized retailers. Well-reviewed resale sites like Grailed and eBay also typically have authentic hoodies for sale.

How can I spot a fake Bloodline hoodie?

Check for things like inaccurate logos, poor stitching, thin fabrics, and misspelled tags. Authentic Bloodline hoodies have crisp, high quality graphics and text.

How should I style a Bloodline hoodie?

Go for an oversized, baggy fit paired with graphic tees and relaxed jeans. Cuffing the sleeves and adding chains or pendants amps up the streetwear vibe.

Why are Bloodline hoodies so popular?

The unique designs and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony affiliation made Bloodline hoodies hugely popular in 90s hip hop fashion. Today they remain sought-after for their iconic streetwear style.