UPDATE: A $180 hoodie emblazoned with “2008 Global Financial Crisis” has officially sold out online, capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The streetwear brand Praying, known for its provocative designs, reported that every size of the hoodie is now unavailable just hours after its launch.
The black hoodie, featuring extreme distressing that gives it a “hurt and mangled” look, marks significant dates in economic history, specifically December 2007 and June 2009, the start and end of the Great Recession. Praying’s founders, Alex Haddad and Skylar Newman, noted that their clothing often reflects dark humor and meme culture, resonating strongly with Gen Z shoppers.
This trend highlights a unique engagement with historical events, as many young adults use fashion to express their awareness of past financial crises. The hoodie has gained further visibility after being sported by NBA player Robert Dillingham, a point guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves who was only three years old when the crisis occurred.
Social media is buzzing with comments from fans eager to know where they can purchase the sold-out item. One user even shared a still from the film “The Big Short,” which depicts the financial crisis, showcasing the generational divide in the understanding of such events.
Praying, established in 2019, has quickly made a name for itself in the streetwear scene, with other items like a “dirty tee” and a jersey also selling out. The brand’s approach to clothing design draws parallels to meme culture, transforming phrases and historical events into wearable commentary.
As the popularity of the hoodie demonstrates, Gen Z is not shying away from using fashion to reflect on serious topics, a trend that continues to grow. The hoodie’s swift sell-out indicates an unexpected but powerful connection between economic history and modern streetwear trends.
With the brand’s rapid expansion and the rising interest in its designs, observers are left wondering what the next provocative piece from Praying will be. Stay tuned for updates on future releases that promise to challenge norms and provoke thought in the world of fashion.
