I Normally Hate Hoodies, But These 13 Outfits Have My Full Attention

Please don't hate me for what I'm about to confess. I have never been the biggest fan of hoodies. Don't get me wrong. I understand why sweatshirts are a beloved staple. Intellectually, I know that hoodies are one of the few basics that happen to be both comfortable and cool. I can get the allure of a cashmere hoodie when it's colder—it's basically the fashion equivalent of feeling like you're bundled up in bed, even if you're not. If I'm being honest, though, sweatshirts have never matched my fashion preferences. I'll always be the girl dressed up at the bodega, even when it's below freezing outside. That's my prerogative. I know that not everyone shares my feelings about sweatshirts, so I've had to shift my perspective on how this staple can be styled outside of a gym.

While I don't think I'll ever consider myself a hoodie lover, I've learned through time that hoodies can be pretty chic when creative styling is involved. In an effort to affirm those findings (primarily to myself), I've decided to create an extensive guide on how to style hoodies in every season. Ahead, I've curated examples of hoodie outfits with styling tips and shopping recommendations that prove this piece can be polished or, at the very least, pretty cool. Whether you're not the sweatshirt type like me or live for sweatshirt season, these 13 outfit ideas will ensure you don't look like you belong in bed but are still just as cozy.

WEAR: Hoodie + Denim Maxi Skirt + Knee-High Boots + Crossbody Bag

Style Notes: One of the most straightforward ways to style a hoodie is with sweats and sneakers, but if the outfit has been feeling stale lately, try making small swaps. Rather than sweatpants, opt for a denim skirt, and swap out your sneakers for a pair of heeled knee-high boots. It's simple, but it significantly affects your look overall.

WEAR: Hoodie + Full Skirt + Mini Bag + Pointed Pumps

Style Notes: If you want to make this sportswear staple feel more sophisticated, consider styling it with unexpected items such as a full skirt, pointed pumps, and a mini bag. The contrast between the pieces will make your hoodie look far chicer.

WEAR: Sunglasses + Hoodie + Pleated Miniskirt + Socks + Loafers + Shoulder Bag

Style Notes: Another way to make this piece feel more polished is to pair it with preppy items, such as a pleated miniskirt and classic loafers. It will make you feel like you belong on an Ivy League campus.

WEAR: Sunglasses + Hoodie + Leather Vest + Midi Skirt + Socks + Loafers

Style Notes: While styling your sweatshirt with formal separates can make it feel fresh, it's not the only way. For a fall-coded 'fit that's a bit less formal, go for an all-black outfit with a hoodie, a leather vest, a midi skirt, and loafers. It's a fail-proof way to make this classic staple feel cooler this fall.

WEAR: Hoodie + Sequin Shoulder Bag + Miniskirt + Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: Make your graphic hoodie stand out this season by leaning into specific fashion aesthetics when styling it. Personally, I love the idea of giving the item a Y2K spin by pairing it with a miniskirt, knee-high boots, and a sequin shoulder bag. There are so many ways to wear this staple, so don't be afraid to experiment.

WEAR: Hoodie + T-Shirt + Printed Scarf + Cargo Skirt + Combat Boots

Style Notes: If you're not a fan of the aughts, you can draw inspiration from the '90s by going for a grunge-inspired look. Pair your hoodie with a cargo skirt, a plaid scarf, and cargo boots for an edgier take on this everyday item.

WEAR: Hoops + Hoodie + Leather Coat + Track Pants + Sneakers + Clutch Bag

Style Notes: Not into channeling specific fashion eras? Frankly, I get it. If you're looking for a way to make this staple feel signature to your style, consider giving it your spin. Try styling sportswear items with unexpected separates and accessories. A hoodie and track pants feel balanced out when paired with ballet flats, a leather trench, and a clutch bag.

WEAR: Blazer + Layered Hoodies + Sweatpants + Loafers

Style Notes: Wearing your hooded sweatshirt with unexpected separates is a surefire way to make it stand out, but if you can't be bothered to spend a ton of time styling your hoodie, there's an even simpler way to do so: Embrace layers. Even if you're wearing a sweatsuit, when you add a boxy blazer and a pair of luxe loafers, you've got an outfit that's super stylish sans effort.

WEAR: Sunglasses + Hoodie + Leather Trench Coat + Wide-Leg Jeans + Pointed Pumps

Style Notes: Another way to play with layering this fall is to style your hooded sweatshirt with the season's biggest outerwear trends—like a leather trench coat. Even a basic red hoodie can be couture coded when styled with a long leather coat, wide-leg jeans, and pointed pumps.

WEAR: Sunglasses + Hoodie + Bomber Jacket + Leather Pants + Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Leather outerwear isn't the only thing that looks good with an oversize sweatshirt. Frankly, there's no better thing to style with everyday basics than other staples, so consider pairing your hoodie with leather trousers, a bomber jacket, and ankle boots for a look that will stun.

WEAR: Hoodie + Baseball Cap + Faux-Fur Coat + Jeans + Sneakers + Slouchy Bag

Style Notes: When it's cold outside, coaxing yourself out of bed can be challenging. Thankfully, this cute outfit can do the trick! For those of us who live for dressing up, throwing a faux-fur coat over a hoodie, jeans, and sneakers strikes the perfect balance between being chic and cozy.

WEAR: Hooded Shirt + Oversize Sweater + Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: If it's not cold enough to add a heavier coat, consider pairing a hooded shirt with an oversize sweater and knee-high boots. This outfit formula can work for any climate.

WEAR: Blazer + Hoodie + Trousers + Slingback Heels

Style Notes: By now, I've hopefully provided you with ample inspiration on how to wear a hoodie in different ways year-round. Let me leave you with some parting wisdom: Get creative. Yes, hoodies will always look good with sweatpants, but why not pair yours with a suit? Ultimately, you won't regret styling this staple with unexpected separates. If anything, you'll convince the anti-sweatshirt crowd to join the cause.