When a teenage American, Travyon Martin, was shot dead by George Zimmerman and it sparked off a huge controversy which later saw Zimmerman freed, the hoodie (hooded sweatshirt) as an outfit, gained popularity. It became a symbol of support against racism and injustice. It fast earned popularity as a symbol for justice seekers, taking attention from what it was previously associated with; gangsters. Its tag as a hooligan’s garment had taken over from its earlier purpose as a sports wear. Despite its new found fame, the hoodie hasn’t ceased to serve it previous purpose as a fashionable and comfortable ideal outfit for cold weather. Though previously popular amongst men, ladies too have picked it up probably due to its advantages that range from a hood to cover the head to its ease in pairing it with other outfits.It is strictly a casual wear, though some people get away with it in formal pants. It can be worn over jeans or any other casual pants with or without drawing the hood over the head. Hoodies come in varieties that provide wearers’ with choices for varying weather. The light ones are mostly meant for sports or when it is not very chilly. The heavier ones meant for extreme weather have an insulating layer that makes them serve the purpose.Hoodies can be employed as a garment of self-expression or as a display of the affiliation of the wearer by the prints on the logo.Lately, African print designers have started designing hoodies from Kitenge, displaying its artistic side. When purchasing a hoodie, consider the fabric used as it determines how heavy or light the outfit will be. Eugene Kayonga, a second hand clothes seller at Nyabugogo open market, says that amongst the things buyers should look out for is how it hugs the wearer’s body. “Contrary to most people’s thoughts about hoodies, it should not be very large or baggy as it gets bulky after a few washes. When it is new, it may not feel bulky but after a while it could easily feel so. The best way to avoid this is by choosing one that fits the body well,” Kayonga says.The best quality at a fair price can be found at second hand stores in Kigali ranging from Rwf 9,000 to Rwf 17,000.
