The ever-practical sweatshirt known as the hoody long ago broke with its music-geek origins only to become a fashionable staple that has stood the test of time. (Or at least the test of the last decade...)

Originally made from flocked cotton with a simple drawstring hood, modern designers have taken the basic idea of the zip-up and converted it into a luxury idea that comes in a wide array of fabrics, ranging from cashmere to velour.

And what is it about the hoody that keeps us infatuated? Some would says it's the hood, but I'm inclined to say it's the zipper. As Jonathon recently pointed out in a post, zippers are by far the most compelling of the notions (buttons, clasps, etc).

From greasy-haired Elliott Smith wannabes to Sid Vicious tributants and celebrities emulator star-struck with Paris Hilton, the easy-on, easy-off handling of the hoody makes it a natural choice for an infinite number of occasions.

Are you feeling sporty? Try a Juicy Couture hoody (but not the pants, mind you. What do you think this is -- 2002?).
Are you feeling bohemian? Throw on a cashmere hoody with a cute dress that almost passed its season.
Are you feeling casual? Hoodies and jeans couldn't find better companions.

This fall, as you transition from the long, warm days of summer to the brisk air of autumn, keep yourself feeling rakish and toasty with a hoody in hand.