Shorten Your Belt, 1937 - Design Story
This hoodie features a striking design derived from the vintage print advertisement "Shorten Your Belt" from 1937. The artwork is a direct adaptation of the original, a piece of commercial art created, most notably, for the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company during the Depression era.
Visual Elements & Representation
The design’s central focus is the compelling visual metaphor suggested by the title. "Shorten Your Belt" symbolizes frugality, financial responsibility, and living within one's means. The imagery, though variable depending on the specific rendering (such as the Herbert Bohnert illustration), likely portrays this theme visually. This could involve illustrations depicting a belt being tightened or, potentially, a person looking thrifty.
Symbolism and Meaning
The design encapsulates the spirit of the 1930s, a period marked by economic hardship. The use of “Shorten Your Belt” was a powerful means of encouraging individuals to embrace thrift and plan for the future. The visual emphasis of the design serves as a reminder of the values of financial security and prudence. The advertisement would have encouraged people to take control of their finances and secure their futures.
Unisex Heavy-Blend Hoodie
A soft, cozy hooded sweatshirt built for comfort-first living. This heavy-blend hoodie pairs plush insulation with a clean, unfussy silhouette — roomy enough to curl up in, tidy enough to wear out.
Product Highlights
Made from a thick cotton/polyester blend, this hoodie feels plush the moment you put it on. The fabric traps warmth without feeling bulky, and the soft brushed interior keeps it gentle against the skin — perfect for chilly mornings, late-night walks, or working from the couch.
Practical details matter: the spacious kangaroo pocket gives your hands a place to warm up and keeps small essentials close, while a matching drawstring adds a refined touch that won't clash with print or embroidery. Built with reinforced seams and a balanced weight, it wears like your favorite sweatshirt from week one.
- Thick cotton/polyester blend for softness and thermal comfort
- Brushed interior for a cozy hand-feel
- Large kangaroo pocket for warmth and storage
- Matching drawstring for a clean, coordinated look
- Durable construction designed to hold shape and color
Fit & Style Notes
This hoodie has a relaxed, unisex cut—comfortable as a standalone layer or roomy enough to go over a tee. Prefer a contemporary, oversized look? Consider sizing up one. Want a neater fit for layering under jackets? Stick with your usual size.
Style it with tapered joggers and minimalist sneakers for an elevated casual set, or add a denim jacket and boots for an easy street-ready outfit. It's a versatile base for prints, patches, or embroidered logos.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a hoodie you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 20.08 | 27.17 | 33.50 |
| M | 22.05 | 27.95 | 34.50 |
| L | 24.02 | 29.13 | 35.50 |
| XL | 25.98 | 29.92 | 36.50 |
| 2XL | 27.99 | 31.10 | 37.50 |
| 3XL | 29.92 | 31.89 | 38.50 |
| 4XL | 31.89 | 33.07 | 39.50 |
| 5XL | 33.86 | 33.86 | 40.50 |
Tip: For a roomy, contemporary hoodie, go one size up. For a trim, layered fit, pick your usual size.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on medium heat
- If needed, iron or steam on low heat
