Hood by Air (HBA) is not just a clothing brand—it’s a cultural revolution. Since its debut, Hood by Air has transcended traditional definitions of streetwear, challenging societal norms with audacious designs that blur the lines between gender and fashion. With roots deep in street culture and a vision that embraces inclusivity, HBA has risen to become a leader in the world of gender-fluid and avant-garde fashion.
But what makes Hood by Air so revolutionary? This blog unpacks the brand’s history, its intersection with streetwear and gender fluidity, iconic designs that have reshaped how we perceive clothing, and its lasting legacy in fashion.
A History in the Making
Hood by Air was founded in 2006 by Shayne Oliver and Raul Lopez, two designers who wanted to shake up the world of fashion. Steeped in the raw energy of New York City’s street culture, the brand quickly turned heads. Oliver’s vision combined elements of streetwear with high fashion, creating bold, boundary-breaking designs. Pieces like oversized hoodies, structured silhouettes, and graphic prints made a splash in an industry dominated by more traditional styles.
By 2010, HBA became a prominent name in fashion circles, hailed for its disruptive approach. Runway shows felt more like cultural performances, featuring androgynous models, loud music, and designs that screamed defiance. Celebrities like Rihanna, Kanye West, and A$AP Rocky became dedicated fans, and their endorsement cemented the brand’s cult status.
HBA’s commitment to experimentation and inclusivity made it more than just a clothing brand. It represented a cultural movement, empowering self-expression and redefining what streetwear could mean—bold, artistic, and fearless.
Where Streetwear Meets Gender Fluidity
Hood by Air is not your average streetwear brand. While many streetwear labels focus on oversized fits and graphic designs, HBA integrates gender inclusivity into its identity. At its core, the brand challenges the idea that clothing must be categorized as “for men” or “for women.”
Instead, HBA creates designs with gender fluidity in mind, celebrating individuality and self-expression. You won’t find traditional lines of “menswear” or “womenswear” here. Pieces are designed to be worn by anyone, no matter how they identify.
Shayne Oliver’s creative direction often draws on LGBTQ+ culture, club scenes, and the avant-garde. This unique mix results in collections that defy stereotypes and create space for people to express themselves authentically.
Why Does This Matter?
Hood by Air’s designs don’t just make headlines for their boldness—they send an important message. By rejecting gender norms, the brand stands as an icon of inclusivity, paving the way for other labels to adopt gender-neutral clothing lines. In an era where self-expression is increasingly celebrated, HBA’s unapologetic approach has helped shift the conversation about what fashion means—and who it’s for.
Iconic Hood by Air Pieces
Certain HBA clothing pieces have become modern-day relics, revered for their boldness and cultural impact. Here are a few highlights:
The “HBA” Graphic Hoodie
Bold and unmistakable, the HBA hoodie is one of the brand’s most iconic staples. Its oversized silhouette and striking typography have made it a must-have for those who live and breathe streetwear. Not just a hoodie—it’s a statement of identity for fans of the brand.
Deconstructed Tops
Hood by Air’s deconstructed tops are emblematic of the brand’s fusion of high fashion and streetwear. Featuring asymmetrical cuts, layering, and daring designs, these pieces represent a shift toward experimental and unorthodox beauty.
Androgynous Slip Dresses
Perhaps surprising for a streetwear label, HBA’s slip dresses blurred the line between masculinity and femininity. These pieces remind us that gender-neutral fashion doesn’t mean plain or minimal—it can be daring, vibrant, and expressive.
Each of these designs has solidified HBA’s image as a disruptor, proving that streetwear can be both bold and inclusive.
Mainstream Fashion Catches On
It’s not just fans who’ve noticed HBA’s groundbreaking approach—mainstream fashion has, too. HBA’s runway shows and collections have influenced some of the biggest fashion houses, with designers borrowing elements of gender-neutral and avant-garde streetwear for their own lines.
The rise of gender-neutral clothing in luxury brands and fast fashion alike can trace its roots, at least partially, to Hood by Air. Retailers now offer more unisex collections, proving that HBA’s inclusive vision resonated not just with niche audiences but with everyday fashion lovers, too.
Brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, and Vetements have tapped into the energy that HBA does so well—pushing boundaries and fostering conversations about identity, self-expression, and artistry.
Voices from the Community
To truly grasp Hood by Air’s impact, look no further than its fans and fashion experts.
Fashion influencer Alex Grant says, “Hood by Air taught me that clothing doesn’t have to fit into categories. Wearing their pieces made me feel seen and empowered.”
Stylist Lane Harper remarks, “The ripple effect of Hood by Air is everywhere. From high streets to luxury brands, that daring blend of streetwear with inclusivity is now mainstream.”
And Tyler from Brooklyn shares, “Hood by Air isn’t just a brand—it’s an attitude. They made space for people like me who don’t fit into the boxes traditional fashion offers.”
These voices highlight what sets HBA apart—not just as a brand, but as a cultural beacon.
Hood by Air’s Legacy and the Future
Hood by Air has proven that fashion isn’t just about clothes—it’s about challenging norms, empowering individuals, and embedding culture into every thread. Over a decade since its inception, the brand is still inspiring change and reshaping the industry.
Looking ahead, HBA’s influence on gender-inclusive fashion will only grow. Younger generations are now demanding the kind of self-expression and authenticity the brand champions.
Love HBA? Here’s How You Can Join the Movement
Explore Hood by Air’s latest collections and discover pieces that speak to you. Be part of their inclusive, game-changing vision by joining the conversation on social media or shopping collections that continue to set the standard for bold, inclusive streetwear.
Shop Hood by Air Collections
There’s no better time to express yourself—and no better brand to do it with.