Here is the next and last instalment in our range of hoodies. Some might criticise me for a lack of originality, but talking about hoodies without mentioning BAPE is a bit like talking about hip-hop without mentioning Biggie! But stop right there! Let’s not get distracted, let’s get back to the question in hand.

Founded by Nigo in 1993 in Tokyo, it’s one of Pharrell’s favourite brands. Globally known and respected in hip-hop circles, each piece is deliberately made in limited numbers to keep them desirable and rare. They used to sell for high prices, and weren’t always worth the money, but fashion isn’t about being rational, is it?

BAPE positions itself as top-of-the-range and fun streetwear, their hoodies are unusual to the point of being a bit weird: bright colours and all-over bling are key (you either love it or hate it!). You can, however, find some more discreet styles, that concentrate a bit more on detail…

The production is detailed and the materials are chosen with care. You pay a premium for unusual styles, so don’t bother trying to find them for less than €300 in stores! The distribution is highly limited, and it is difficult to predict new arrivals, but it’s always worth checking Colette in Paris.

(There are many sites offering BAPE at really low prices, but I’ve not tried them out and can’t guarantee the authenticity of products… You’ve been warned! )

It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for: as promised, here’s the the latest installment in the hoodie special. And this week, all eyes are on Sixpack.

Created in 1998, it was one of the labels that were part of the street culture movment. Avant-garde and ambitious, this daring brand made waves. It launched unknown artists, constantly searching for new talent, a quest that eventually opened doors to the International stage. The label forged itself a name and an image, and the whole community welcomed it: from artists to DJs, graphic artists to writers, fans and newbies, everyone was interested.

And today its reputation is made, as you can see! The artwork is remarkable and so is the quality! Mainly known for its unusual t-shirts, the brand offers some styles as hoodies! And they’re rather good, worth a look…

They’re available from €115 from their online store, or from Lazy dog at the Citadium.

As spring has been slow to arrive, how do you fancy a hoodie? I will show you a selection of a few good brands so you don’t catch a cold during this rather temperamental end-of-season weather. The first in the series is from American Apparel.

They’re well known for their basics and their premium quality, and American Apparel offer a wide range of products, from t-shirts to jeans, ladies’ tights and mens’ underwear. They offer a wide choice of quality stuff. Another unique point, not to be scoffed at either, is that all their products are made and produced in Los Angeles. A little slice of American class! As recognition of this, each garment is labelled “Made in downtown Los Angeles”!

As for their hoodies, there’s nothing too unusual, they’re a little thin, they’re neither too bling or too cheap looking, with a good balance of the subtle and the simple, using block colours and well-finished styles. Now all you need to do is to choose the right colour…from €45! Available from their stores or online.

More coming in the next few days… Stay tuned!