An In-Depth Look at the Fashion Phenomenon
If you’re at all plugged into the world of high fashion, you’ve likely heard the name Vetements. This edgy, Paris-based label has made waves over the past few years with their bold, oversized aesthetic and frequent designer collaborations. And their signature hoodies are some of the most coveted pieces in their entire collection.
As someone who lives and breathes fashion, I was dying to get my hands on an authentic Vetements hoodie. But I quickly realized that researching these hype-worthy garments would be no easy task. Information was scattered, details were vague, and knockoffs were rampant.
So I’m here to set the record straight on Vetements hoodies – their unique features, fits, prices, and more. Consider this your one-stop guide to understanding the art of the Vetements hoodie.
Signature Features of Vetements Hoodies
There are a few key features that make Vetements hoodies instantly recognizable in the fashion world.
First is the oversized fit. Vetements takes hoodie silhouettes to the extreme, with extended shoulders, dropped sleeves, and exaggerated body lengths. This gives them a slouched, effortless vibe.
Second are the unique cut lines and seams. Vetements often tweaks the construction of classic hoodie styles. This includes extended or cropped hems, uneven sleeve lengths, and asymmetric zippers.
Bold branding is also a Vetements signature. Their hoodies feature large embroidered or screen-printed logos placed conspicuously on the front or back. The bold VETEMENTS label has become a status symbol among hypebeasts.
Other notable features include unconventional hood shapes, cozy fabrics like cotton terry or fleece, and vibrant colors that stray from basic black.
Overall, Vetements takes a traditional staple – the hoodie – and turns it on its head with an avant-garde, high-fashion twist. The little details add up to create their signature look.
How Vetements Hoodies Fit
One of the most common questions about Vetements hoodies is how they fit. Given their oversized, baggy look, sizing can be confusing.
In general, Vetements hoodies fit several sizes larger than typical hoodies from other brands. For example, someone who usually wears a size medium could easily fit into a Vetements XXXS or XXS hoodie.
The oversized fit is intentional. For a slouchy, fashion-forward look, most customers recommend sizing down 1-3 sizes. However, some people prefer to stick with their normal size for an even more exaggerated shape.
Since the fit is so oversized overall, lengths run very long. Hoodies will reach the thigh or past the hip on most builds. Sleeves extend well past the wrist.
Shoulders are also extended for a dropped shoulder effect, while the body has an ample, boxy shape. So there is a lot of room for layering underneath.
For women, the oversized unisex fit makes Vetements hoodies a versatile top layer. But petite frames can easily be swallowed up by the baggy shapes.
Trying on Vetements hoodies in person is ideal. But since that’s not always possible, examining the measurements of each specific hoodie is important for finding your perfect oversized fit.
Where to Buy 100% Authentic Vetements Hoodies
Once I decided to invest in a Vetements hoodie, finding an authentic source became paramount. These luxury pieces come with luxury price tags, so knockoffs abound.
Vetements official web store is the best place to buy direct from the brand. Stock there includes both new collections and rare archived pieces. Their products ship worldwide from France.
Select physical Vetements boutiques also carry the full collection. These are located in fashion capitals like Paris, Seoul, and Hong Kong.
For a personal touch, shop the selection at upscale multi-designer boutiques that stock Vetements. Their expert staff can walk you through sizing and styling.
If you want access to retired or sold-out Vetements gear, reputable consignment shops and resale sites offer coveted archival pieces. Just be vigilant about authentication.
And for scoring deals, flash sale sites will often mark down select Vetements stock. Sign up for alerts so you can snag hoodies as soon as sales hit.
Whenever buying from a third party, thoroughly vet the retailer and product listings. Make sure customer feedback confirms they sell 100% authentic Vetements. Getting “scammed” by cheap counterfeits is heartbreaking.
The Price Range for Vetements Hoodies
So how much will this high fashion hoodie habit set you back? MSRPs for Vetements hoodies fall in the $800 to $3,200 range.
Yes, several thousand dollars for a humble hoodie.
But Vetements is truly more luxury than basics brand. Their fabrics, fits, and detailing justify the staggering price tags. Plus, exclusivity sends demand (and resale value) through the roof.
Within their collection, limited edition collaborations with brands like Champion or Canada Goose fetch the highest retail prices.
Simple oversized hoodies with less embellishment start around the $800 mark. More complex designs with unique cuts, prints, or fabric treatments increase in price.
On the secondary market, coveted sold-out colorways or collabs can double or triple in resale value. So someday that $1,200 hoodie could net over $3,000!
Occasional end-of-season sales bring prices down slightly. And secondhand finds might start under $500. But broadly, expect to invest at least a grand for Vetements hoodie greatness.
Just approach it as acquiring wearable art…and try not to dwell on how many Target hoodies that money could buy!
Spotting Fakes – How to Identify a Real Vetements Hoodie
Since Vetements carries such a luxury price tag, the market is flooded with counterfeit hoodies trying to cash in. Spotting a fake takes some product knowledge and a keen eye.
Always scrutinize labels and branding. Vetements uses specific label prints and high-quality embroidery. Fakes often have misspelled logos, cheap screen printing, or “VETEMENT” printed where “VETEMENTS” should be.
Examine every construction detail. Things like zipper hardware, stitching, and fabric quality should be pristine. Lower grade details are a red flag.
Compare the suspect hoodie to Vetements product shots to catch inaccurate shapes, colors, prints or graphics. Replicas often mimick designs loosely.
Shopping resale? Ask for multiple tagged photos to verify details front and back. Legit hoodies have clean interior branding tags with consistent fonts and codes.
And trust your instincts. If a seller seems sketchy or if prices seem unrealistic, walk away. Authentic Vetements doesn’t get hocked at 90% off on shady Instagram pages.
Owning counterfeit Vetements is illegally and unethical. Do your due diligence to ensure your flex is 100% authentic and legitimate.
Most Popular Vetements Hoodie Designs
Vetements has released dozens of hoodie iterations since their founding in 2014. Some styles stick around, while others disappear fast. Here are a few of the most coveted and iconic.
The Oversized Logo Hoodie first put Vetements on the map. This features their signature vertical VETEMENTS logo running down the sleeve in bright contrast colors.
For preppier vibes, the Stadium Hoodie has varsity-style appliquéd letters across the chest. These often spell out provocative phrases.
Collaborative hoodies are also white-hot sellers. The Vetements x Champion reversibles, Vetements x Canada Goose puffers, and Vetements x Alpha Industries ma-1 bomber silhouettes are grails for many collectors.
Cult favorite graphic tees get transformed into hoodies with the same iconic print on the back. These include designs like the Titanic Hoodie, Brass Knuckles Hoodie, and Coca-Cola Hoodie.
Vetements also does cut-up and deconstructed variations of standard hoodies. Distressing, asymmetry, and unconventional seaming keep their take fresh.
And they’ve branched into luxe fabrics like velour, silk, and shearling for statement hoodies beyond basic cotton fleece.
Vetements keeps their classics stocked while continuing to push boundaries. The possibilities are endless when you’re willing to reinvent the hoodie entirely!
Caring for Your Vetements Hoodie
Once you score that coveted Vetements hoodie, you’ll want it to last. Follow these tips to keep your statement piece looking fresh.
Always reference the care instructions inside the hoodie. Most are machine washable but dry cleaning may be recommended. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to be safe.
Air dry is ideal to prevent shrinking or distortion. Lay flat and reshape the hoodie while damp. If machine drying, use the lowest heat setting.
Use a delicate laundry bag if washing with other clothes. Avoid abrasive zips, snaps, or jeans. And don’t use bleach or fabric softener.
Spot clean stains immediately using a gentle soap and damp sponge or cloth. Don’t scrub aggressively on delicate or embellished areas.
For storage, fold hoodies flat or hang on wide, padded hangers. Avoid wire hangers which can warp shoulder seams.
And know when to give your hoodie a break. Letting it rest between wears preserves the structure and prevents staining.
With some reasonable care, your Vetements investment piece can pay dividends for many seasons to come.
Vetements Hoodie Materials – What are They Made From?
You might assume all hoodies are created equal. But Vetements uses exclusive, luxury-level fabrics you won’t find on basic brands.
Their signature cotton fleece is custom developed in Germany. It’s buttery soft yet substantial, with zero pilling. Fit, drape and handfeel are unparalleled.
Organic cotton, modal, and tencel blends make ultra-soft, ethical hoodies. Artisanal wool and alpaca blends add warmth for winter.
For weatherproof designs, they partner with elite outerwear brands. This includes Gore-Tex, Polartec, Canada Goose down, and more.
Some hoodies incorporate technical nylons, silks, cashmeres, and even hand-distressed leathers. They’re literally ready for the runway.
Their focus on material innovation and fabric quality justifies the indulgent pricing. Once you feel a Vetements hoodie’s buttery fleece or slinky velour, you’ll get it.
Mixing luxe fabrics with streetwear silhouettes is part of their high-low appeal. It redefines what a hoodie can be.
Unisex Appeal – Are Vetements Hoodies for Everyone?
A fun fact about Vetements – despite the edgy aesthetic, their collections are designed to be unisex.
The oversized fits and neutral color palettes make their hoodies extremely versatile. Men and women can both style them in creative ways.
Some details do nod towards menswear, like flat drawstrings or straight hems. But fitted “womenswear” touches are absent.
This androgynous approach helps the brand resist trends. Their hoodies transcend gender or seasonal fads.
The roomy shapes make Vetements especially ideal for women seeking borrowed-from-the-boys style. The hoodies layer perfectly over feminine pieces.
Meanwhile, guys can choose between slim or slouched fits. More robust builds can really embrace the oversize proportions.
Vetements founder Demna Gvasalia has a progressive vision of fashion free of gender constraints. The unisex angle matches his philosophy.
So don’t worry about men’s versus women’s sections when shopping Vetements. Just get the size and style that speaks to you!
Famous Fans – Celebrities Rocking Vetements Hoodies
Given their cult status in the fashion industry, it’s no surprise that tons of celebs covet Vetements as a wardrobe flex.
Kanye West helped ignite hype around the brand by wearing rare pieces early on. The Jenners (Kendall and Kylie) also sported Vetements hoodies during peak mania.
Rihanna loves an oversized hoodie moment – she’s been spotted in Vetements more than once. Other musical stars like ASAP Rocky, Justin Bieber, and Keith Richards have given the co-sign too.
For actresses, Zendaya, Cara Delevigne, and Selena Gomez have all incorporated Vetements hoodies into their off-duty looks.
Even niche internet celebs like beauty guru Jeffree Star have snapped up these impossible-to-find grails, showing their influence across fashion circles big and small.
Of course, luxury prices mean the most coveted Vetements hoodies are out of reach for many celebrities. But exclusivity is part of the allure – making sightings even more exciting for devotees.
Collaborations and Crossovers
No discussion of Vetements hoodies is complete without mentioning their epic brand collaborations.
Demna Gvasalia leads the industry in thinking outside the box when it comes to partnerships. He’ll mash up a bourgeois luxury house with a mundane basics brand, or vice versa, for ironic high/low appeal.
Some of their most astounding hoodie collaborations include:
- Vetements x Champion: Varsity-vibe hoodies and reversible two-in-ones
- Vetements x Canada Goose: Oversized goose down puffer hoodies
- Vetements x Alpha Industries: Signature ma-1 bomber hoodies
- Vetements x Dr. Scholl’s: Printed insoles blown up as graphic hoodie prints
- Vetements x Carhartt: Workwear-inspired hoodies with Carhartt’s signature duck canvas
- Vetements x Juicy Couture: Glittery millennial pink hoodies meshing grunge and girly
- Vetements x Levi’s: Denim jacket and hoodie combos
- Vetements x Mackintosh: Oversized raincoat hoodies
- Vetements x Manolo Blahnik: Sculptural heels made into prints
- Vetements x Comme Des Garcons: All-black “Vetements Comme Des Garcons” hoodies
Each collaboration has a cheeky, tongue-in-cheek spirit that amplifies both brands. And they inevitably become instant grails for diehard followers of both labels.
Sustainable or Fast Fashion?
As buyers become more conscious about garment production, sustainability has also come into question. So how “green” can we consider Vetements hoodies?
Unfortunately fast-fashion critiques do arise. Some argue that their limited production runs and manufactured scarcity encourage overconsumption.
Others applaud small production batches as reducing waste. And the luxury-level quality makes pieces less disposable.
Virtually all Vetements hoodies are made in Europe. This hints at ethical labor standards and reduced emissions from transport. Cotton fabrics are often certified organic.
But they offer limited transparency about materials sourcing or supply chain ethics. And demand creates a robust resale market, extending the lifecycle.
Ultimately, Vetements hoodies land somewhere in the middle sustainability-wise. They demonstrate some eco-conscious practices, but have room for improvement. The focus stays on innovative design vs. ethics.
For now, staying aware as a consumer, caring for pieces carefully, and participating in resale are small helpful steps. But the luxury sector remains far from truly sustainable.
Sizing Information – What’s Available?
Given the oversized aesthetic, Vetements’ size range caters towards slim builds.
Women’s sizing includes:
- XXXS (equivalent to an XXS or size 0)
- XXS (size 2)
- XS (size 4)
- S (size 6-8)
- M (size 10)
- L (size 12)
Men’s sizing includes:
- XXS (equivalent to a size XS)
- XS
- S
- M
- L
- XL
Their sizing is not necessarily aligned with traditional size charts. Going several sizes down is common for the intended baggy fit.
For plus size shoppers, even the largest sizes can fit very slim. But custom or made-to-order may be possible on request.
With each unique hoodie silhouette, examining exact garment measurements is the best move. Sizing varies more than typical brands. Be sure yours will fit the oversize aesthetic you want.
How Vetements Hoodies Compare With Other Luxe Brands
Dior. Gucci. Balenciaga. Fashion houses known for luxury ready-to-wear. So how do their sweatshirts and hoodies stack up against Vetements?
In terms of bold branding, Vetements has noticeably bigger and bolder logos. Their hoodies embrace streetwear more overtly.
Silhouettes tend to be roomier and longer than traditional luxe brands. Vetements literally oversizes.
Fabrics and production quality are on par with other luxury names. But most don’t engineer fabrics from scratch like Vetements.
Prices can compete with top fashion houses. But Vetements positions itself as more exclusively hype versus broadly luxury.
Trend-wise, Vetements eclipses staid high fashion. Their constant innovation and drops make them the true trendsetters.
So while legacy houses offer one version of luxury, Vetements captures exclusivity through constant reinvention and their cult-like following. It’s luxury fashion – made cool again.
Can You Return or Exchange? Vetements Policies
Given the premium pricing, buyers want assurance. So what are Vetements’ policies if you need to return or exchange an online order?
Per their website, shoppers have 14 days after receiving an order to process a return or exchange.
Items must be in original condition with all tags attached to qualify. So try them on carefully!
Return shipping costs are deducted from the refund amount. Exchanges are processed by returning the original hoodie before the new one ships.
For in-store purchases, return policies vary by retailer. Some high-end boutiques offer in-house tailoring instead of returns.
Online purchases ship from the Vetements warehouse in France. Allow 2 weeks from receiving your return for refund processing.
Exchanges are only available for hoodies that are currently in stock on their site. So exchanges for sold-out or seasonal items likely won’t be possible.
For resale or consignment buys, you must comply with each seller’s unique policies. These are often more stringent.
While returns are allowed in theory, think carefully when buying Vetements. Quality and sizing inconsistencies are very rare. So buy only what you’re sure you’ll love and wear.
Rare Grails – Limited Edition and Exclusive Hoodies
Part of the mania around Vetements involves their constant introduction of new designs combined with tiny production batches. This makes each hoodie limited-run by default.
But they take exclusivity up another level by occasionally producing capsule collections with 50 pieces or less worldwide. Recently, this included satin bomber jackets and hand-distressed denim.
These hyper-limited hoodies sell out in literal seconds, even at $3,000+ price points. Resale for “exclusive” pieces can exceed $10,000 to $20,000.
To score these rare grails, buyers have to be online the moment new collections drop. Following the brand’s Inner Circle also helps secure first access.
Occasionally, Vetements releases region-exclusive hoodies only available at certain boutiques. For example, a Seoul flagship may get special Korea-only merch.
Scoring these exclusive Vetements drops earns serious fashion cred. Big spenders and hypebeasts approach it like a competitive sport trying to acquire the rarest of the rare.
For the rest of us, admiring from afar may be the only option! But dreaming about slipping on an exclusive Vetements hoodie sure is nice.
Release Schedule – How Often Do New Designs Drop?
Here’s a tip for hunting new Vetements arrivals: unlike traditional fashion brands, they don’t adhere to the standard industry calendar.
Instead of seasonal collections, Vetements operates on a random, sporadic schedule. They release new pieces and collaborations whenever inspiration strikes.
Between these surprise launches, they’ll periodically replenish sold-out classics. But there’s no forecasting what’s coming next or when.
Your best bet is to check their online shop and follow their social media for first looks at fresh drops. Sign up for newsletters and alerts too.
When new merch does arrive, it tends to sell out fast. So jumping on it quickly is key, or else you’ll pay inflated resell prices later.
The constant element of surprise and FOMO marketing approach feeds the hype machine. You never know what coveted hoodie might drop out of the blue!
Caring for Your Hoodie – Washing and Maintenance
Keep your prized Vetements hoodie looking fresh by following proper care guidelines:
- Read the label – Follow material-specific instructions
- Machine wash cold with gentle detergent
- Hang dry is safest; machine dry on delicate if needed
- Spot clean stains immediately
- Avoid abrasion – Zip up when washing; don’t let hoodies pill against other fabrics
- Store flat – Refold along original creases
- Give it a rest – Rotate between wears; don’t overwash
With high-end fabrics and finishes like silk or leather, take to a specialty cleaner.
General tips:
- Wash inside-out
- Use a garment bag
- Skip the dryer if uncertain
- Let air dry fully before storing
- Steam or iron on low when needed
By treating your Vetements hoodie with care, it will deliver comfort and style for many years to come!
Reviews – What Are People Saying?
As a final testament to their quality and appeal, Vetements hoodies are consistently reviewed as top-notch. Here’s a sample of the praise.
“This hoodie was worth every penny. The fabric is amazing – so soft and cozy but still feels luxe. I wore it to death and it still looks new.”
“I sized down and the oversized fit is so stylish. I always get compliments when I wear this hoodie out.”
“The unique details like the extended shoulders and sleeves make this hoodie feel like couture streetwear. Game-changing!”
“I scored this piece on sale and feel like I have a work of art. The drape, the hand-feel…pure luxury.”
“As a Vetements collector, I can say the quality and fits are phenomenal across all their hoodies. And they truly hold value over time.”
“Yes, the prices hurt. But I have yet to find any brand that executes elevated basics at this level. Vetements hoodies are investments.”
Clearly, those who appreciate luxury fashion and avant garde design can’t get enough of Vetements’ iconic hoodies. The details and craftmanship justify the price for devoted followers.
Oversized, slouchy, edgy, and effortlessly cool. I can’t wait to style my next Vetements hoodie into the perfect high fashion street look!
