If there’s one piece of fashion vocabulary that even your non-stylish mate knows these days, it’s “Essentials”. Nope, we’re not talking about wardrobe basics like plain tees or trusty trainers (though those are important too). We’re talking about Essentials — the brand and subculture that’s become synonymous with cool, effortless style. From celebrity sightings to Gen Z’s obsession with oversized fitting, Essentials clothing has earned its place in the fashion hall of fame.
Dive in with us as we unpack how Essentials is worn across different styles, why celebs adore it, how it speaks to Gen Z, and how you can rock it like a pro.
What Is Essentials Clothing Anyway?
Before we get carried away, let’s define our terms. Essentials is a fashion line by Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God label. It’s designed to be comfortable, minimal and versatile — simultaneously elevated and approachable. Think oversized hoodies, simple sweatpants, classic logos, and neutral tones. The magic lies in the way it blurs the line between luxury fashion and everyday comfort.
It’s a perfect example of how streetwear has evolved from subculture to mainstream — without losing its soul.
Celebrity Influences: Who’s Wearing It (and How)
Celebrities have been instrumental in catapulting Essentials from cool to coveted. You’ll spot everyone from A-listers to internet stars in oversized hoodies, tees, and tracksuits.
Rihanna
RiRi has worn Essentials pieces both casually and in public appearances, blending them with luxe accessories — think oversized hoodie with stiletto boots, or a tonal tracksuit with statement jewellery. Her ability to elevate comfort wear into high fashion is why she’s a style icon.
Hailey Bieber
Hailey is a master of the minimalist aesthetic. She pairs Essentials hoodies with tailored trousers or sleek blazers, proving that streetwear doesn’t have to look sloppy — it can look polished and effortless in equal measure.
Justin Bieber
Justin’s closet seems to be 90% Essentials at this point. Whether he’s off filming TikToks or heading to a studio sesh, his love of oversized silhouettes and neutral tones has helped normalise the look for young men everywhere.
Zendaya
Known for her fearless fashion choices, Zendaya uses Essentials as a canvas — pairing simple pieces with bold outerwear or statement accessories. It’s a reminder that simplicity doesn’t mean boring.
Celebrities aren’t just wearing Essentials — they’re styling it, and that’s a big part of why it’s become so influential.
How to Wear Essentials (Without Looking Like You Got Dressed in the Dark)
Essentials is comfort first, but that doesn’t mean sloppy. With a few styling tweaks, you can make every outfit look intentional, sleek and stylish.
1. Balance Oversized With Structure
The signature baggy hoodie or joggers can overwhelm your frame if worn head-to-toe. Pairing oversized tops with:
- Slim-fit jeans
- Tailored trousers
- Fitted skirts
…adds structure and prevents your silhouette from getting lost in fabric.
2. Go Monochrome
One of the easiest ways to look polished is to stick with a monochrome palette. Pair different shades of beige, cream, or black in an outfit — it looks cohesive and instantly fashion-forward.
3. Layer With Intention
Layering is key to that effortless street look. Try:
- Shirt under an oversized sweatshirt
- Longline tee under a jacket
- Denim or leather over an Essentials hoodie
Layering adds depth and personality.
4. Accessorise Boldly
Because the clothes themselves are minimal, accessories become your best friend. Think:
- Chunky gold chains
- Sleek beanies or caps
- Statement bags
- Sporty shades
These small additions lift your look from casual to editorial.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: Why Everyone’s Wearing Essentials
One of the biggest draws of Essentials is its gender-neutral vibe. In a world where fashion is increasingly rejecting rigid binaries, this line hits all the right notes.
Universal Fits
The oversized silhouettes are intentionally unisex. Hoodies, tees and joggers are cut to flatter — not define — any body type. This versatility means:
- Guys wear women’s cuts and vice versa
- Pieces can be shared between friends or partners
- Fashion becomes less about gender, more about expression
This isn’t just a trend — it’s a movement. Essentials resonates with people who want to dress authentically, not according to outdated fashion rules.
Gen Z and the Rise of “Comfort Meets Cool”
If Millennials brought athleisure to the mainstream, Gen Z perfected it. For a generation that values comfort, sustainability, and authenticity, Essentials hits the sweet spot.
Why Gen Z Loves Essentials:
- Authenticity over Flashiness: Loud logos and flashy designs aren’t as appealing as understated cool.
- Comfort Is Non-Negotiable: With remote studying and work, comfort became a priority — and fashion adapted.
- Sustainability Mindset: Simple, well-made pieces are favoured over fast fashion fads.
- Social Media Visibility: TikTok and Instagram have amplified trends at lightning speed — and Essentials is everywhere.
From TikTok styling challenges to #OOTD posts, Essentials has become a uniform of digital youth culture. It’s the wardrobe equivalent of a viral dance — effortlessly replicated, endlessly remixable.
Cultural Trends: From Streetwear to High Street
Once confined to streetwear culture, Essentials clothing has now infiltrated high street and even high fashion spaces. How? By being adaptable.
High Street Brands Follow Suit
Brands from Zara to H&M now lean into oversized silhouettes and neutral palettes — a testament to how influential Essentials has been on the industry as a whole.
Collaborations & Capsule Drops
Fear of God’s collaborations with major retailers brought Essentials to more accessible price points — further spreading its reach.
Celeb Endorsements and Social Proof
Celebrities are walking billboards. When they wear Essentials, fans take note. Before you know it, what was once a niche piece becomes mainstream cool.
Fashion Hacks: Make Essentials Look Expensive (Without Breaking the Bank)
Love the look but not sure how to elevate it? Here are some clever hacks to help you wear Essentials like a style editor:
1. Tailor Your Fits
Oversized doesn’t mean shapeless. A simple tuck, cuff, or roll of the sleeve can sharpen your silhouette instantly.
2. Mix Textures
Pair cotton hoodies with leather skirts or denim jackets. The contrast adds dimension and sophistication.
3. Add a Belt
A belt over an oversized hoodie can create shape and redefine proportions — especially helpful if you’re going for a more structured look.
4. Invest in Quality Trainers
Clean, stylish trainers can make or break an outfit. Pick a pair with a sleek design to complement your Essentials pieces.
5. Keep It Fresh
Essentials is all about minimalism — but dirty or worn-out pieces kill the vibe. Keep your clothes and footwear clean to maintain that elevated feel.
The Future of Essentials (Hint: It’s Bright)
Essentials has already made its mark, but the story doesn’t stop here. With fashion becoming more inclusive, sustainable, and expressive, Essentials is positioned to evolve with the times.
We’ll likely see:
- More daring colourways
- Unexpected collaborations
- Eco-friendly materials
- Even deeper integration into youth culture
One thing’s for sure: Essentials isn’t just a trend — it’s become a styling foundation for a generation that values comfort, creativity and freedom.
Wrap-Up: Why Essentials Works So Well
So why has Essentials become such a fashion phenomenon? Let’s recap:
- It blends comfort with style
- Celebrities wear it — and people emulate it
- It’s gender-neutral, appealing to all identities
- Gen Z loves its authentic, laid-back vibe
- It’s versatile — from streetwear to high fashion
- And with a few styling tricks, it can look seriously chic
Whether you’re rocking an oversized hoodie with tailored trousers or matching sweats with bold accessories, Essentials lets you express yourself while staying effortlessly cool.
In a world where fashion trends come and go, Essentials feels timeless — because it’s built on simplicity, versatility and a deep understanding of what people want to wear. And that’s the real essential.
Final Thoughts: Why Essentials Is More Than Just Clothing
In a world where trends flash and fade, Essentials stands steady. It’s not just a brand — it’s a cultural moment. With celebrity backing, Gen Z enthusiasm, gender-neutral designs, and universal comfort, it’s become part of how we define casual style in the 2020s.
Whether you’re dressing for a coffee run, a street shoot, or a cosy day in, Essentials makes it feel effortless. And in fashion, effortless often means ic.