The best ways to tell these garments apart (plus how to choose the right one for every occasion)

Hoodies and sweatshirts. Both cozy. Both comfortable. They’re pretty much the same thing! Well, not exactly. Hoodies and sweatshirts do have a lot in common, but they also have their differences. In this article, we’ll teach you how to tell them apart and style them for practically any occasion.

Things You Should Know

  • Hoodies and sweatshirts are basically both variations of a pullover, where one has a hood (and potentially a zipper) while the other doesn't.
  • Sweatshirts come in a range of materials and styles and are most commonly worn to the gym or with jeans.
  • Hoodies are the more loungeable garment that’s also perfect for layering in frigid temperatures.
Section 4 of 4:

Styling Hoodies & Sweatshirts

  1. 1
    Bundle up with a hoodie in the winter. Layer long sleeve shirts under a hoodie, tuck a scarf around the collar, and pull up the hood to keep yourself warm in frigid temperatures. Finish the look with a cozy pair of sweatpants or jeans and winter boots.
    • Try layering a sweatshirt underneath your hoodie for even more warmth.
    • Opt for a zip-up hoodie if you know you’ll be heading back indoors soon.
    • Stick a pair of gloves in your hoodie’s pocket(s) just in case you need them.
  2. 2
    Wear a jean jacket over a hoodie. This is an excellent way to up your style game for a casual night out on the town. Not only is this look sleek and relaxed, but it’s also super simple. Put on your favorite hoodie and layer an open-faced jacket on top—just make sure to pull the hood out.[3]
    • Stick with neutral tones or opt for a bright-colored hoodie for a pop of color.
    • Try this look with a khaki jacket, leather jacket, or even trench coat—use whatever you feel the coolest in.[4]
  3. 3
    Throw a sweatshirt over a tee in chilly weather. If there’s a cool breeze in the air, layer up with a sweatshirt and a shirt. This is a great way to add extra warmth without bundling up too much. Pair your tops with jeans, leggings, or sweatpants—whichever’s the most comfortable and appropriate.
    • Look for sweatshirts with embroidery or graphics on the front for an extra fashionable edge.
    • Try to pick a tee that matches your sweatshirt, as the collar may poke out at the top.
  4. 4
    Put on a hoodie while running errands. Heading out the door in a rush and don’t know if it’s chilly out there? Grab a hoodie on your way out to throw on, just in case. Think of a hoodie as an extra cozy and casual jacket—perfect for tossing on whenever you need a warm hug.
    • Opt for a neutral-colored hoodie (like white, gray, or black), so it’ll match whatever you’re wearing.
    • Consider keeping a hoodie in the backseat of your car for emergencies.
  5. 5
    Wear a sweatshirt to the gym. Sweatshirts are great to wear during a warm-up or until you’re hot enough to strip down to your workout top or sports bra. Simply toss one on that matches your gym gear and head out the door. Plus, you can always throw it back on after you’ve cooled down to run errands.
    • Pick a sweatshirt that matches the weather. For instance, opt for cotton if it’s chilly or stick with breathable nylon in the summer.
  6. 6
    Pair a sweatshirt with a collared shirt and jeans for business casual events. A solid-colored sweatshirt can be dressed up with a nice button down shirt for more formal events. Tuck in the shirt, roll the sleeves over the sweatshirt, and pull the collar out for a smart yet casual look.[5]
    • Wear dark, slim fitting jeans or a pleated skirt to finish the look.[6]
    • Opt for a darker-toned hoodie rather than a bright one, as these give a more professional and sophisticated look.
    • Dress up your sweatshirt with bold makeup or jewelry to look more put together.
  7. 7
    Get cozy in a hoodie for a movie date night. Tousled hair, fuzzy socks, and a bucket full of popcorn? What could be better? Pair an oversized hoodie with sweatpants or leggings when you’re snuggling on the couch with your beau.[7]
    • Don’t have a beau? No worries! You can style a hoodie this way whenever you’re feeling cozy, lazy, or both.
    • This cozy look can also be achieved with a sweatshirt—just use whatever you have in your closet.
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About This Article

Cassandra Sethi
Co-authored by:
Personal Stylist & Image Consultant
This article was co-authored by Cassandra Sethi and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano. Cassandra Sethi is a Personal Stylist, Image Consultant, and the Founder of Next Level Wardrobe, a luxury personal styling service for busy professionals. With over 20 years of fashion industry experience, Cassandra helps people transform their confidence by creating a work wardrobe they love to wear. Cassandra holds a BA in Fashion Merchandising from California State University, Long Beach, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Fashion Buying and Merchandising from the London College of Fashion. She created Soulcycle's retail business and was the Senior Buyer for 90+ Equinox gyms. Cassandra has been featured on New York’s PIX11 in an interview about how to achieve great work-from-home style as well as in Men's Health, Business of Fashion, and NYMag. This article has been viewed 2,023 times.
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Co-authors: 3
Updated: January 13, 2023
Views: 2,023
Categories: Outerwear | Clothing
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