5 Of The Best Hooded Tops

The best clothes have an element of the unexpected about them, and hooded tops have been subverted by designers from Stella McCartney?to Baja East?this season. The trend has filtered down to the high street, too, presenting us with a plethora of fabulous hoodies that you’ll want to wear for cocktails as much as for kicks. Here are five of my favourites, both designer and high street.

I love this sleeveless hoodie with graphic print. The mesh detailing at the side makes it sexy enough for evening wear. Forget wearing it with ripped jeans, this piece can easily be elevated if paired with wide-leg trousers and heels.

The last item you’d expect to find with cold-shoulder detailing is a utilitarian hoodie, but Christopher Kane has given this hooded sweater a completely fresh look. I like that he stayed with the traditional cotton-jersey fabric, but glammed it up with a single cut-out shoulder trimmed with feathers.

This velvet hoodie from Zara reminds me a little of a Victorian-style cloak. It would look really chic over a simple black midi dress, maybe one with sheer panels so that the textures play against each other.

This backless hoodie is a great way of injecting a touch of athleisure into your evening wear. It?would pair really well with black metallic trousers and heels. A sheer top will give you a little coverage at the back without lessening the effect of the backless detail.

I love this elegant hooded jumper. The drape of the hood and bell sleeves add a luxurious touch to what could be an ordinary sweater. Top of my wish list.