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Plus Size & Oversized Cozy Wear: Big Size Hoodies, Sweatshirts & Sweaters for Winter & Holiday Gifting

By: YouApparel Posted on: Nov 18, 2025
This plus size sweatshirts guide on YouApparel serves merch planners, retailers and corporate buyers who need inclusive winter layers in 3XL, 4XL and 5XL. It explains differences between unisex and women’s plus size hoodies, how oversized fits compare to classic cuts, and why heavyweight fleece matters for cold weather comfort. Readers see brand examples from Gildan, Hanes, Jerzees, Independent Trading Co and Bella+Canvas, including vintage crewnecks, cropped TikTok hoodies and lightweight terry options. The article also covers printability for screen printing, embroidery and DTF, tips for WFH outfits, streetwear looks and holiday gifting, and reasons to source plus size blanks from US warehouses with reliable wholesale pricing and fast shipping.
With winter around the corner, warmth and style are going to retake center stage. The challenge is in finding top-quality clothing that comes in inclusive fits. Plus-size hoodies and sweatshirts of such quality are not easy to come by. But it gets even more tiresome to find cozy layers that go well with them. It often comes to a point where you have to compromise a little on comfort. Not with YouApparel, though. Our wholesale sweatshirts and hoodies collection includes several styles from big-name brands that come in plus sizes. 
Find plus and big size sweatshirts and hoodies for stores that want to stock up on winter essentials, for holiday gifting, or simply for living in oversized comfort from our wholesale apparel collection at competitive per-unit prices. This season's lineup has you covered with unmatched prices on pullover hoodies and fleece you won’t find anywhere else.

Blank Crewneck Sweatshirts to Heavyweights: Sizes Up to 5X, Fast U.S. Shipping


In YouApparel, you’ll find hoodies, sweatshirts, and sweaters in extended sizes up to 5X. All orders ship fast from U.S. warehouses, with both single-piece and wholesale pricing meant to give you a pleasant surprise.
We have the right kind of styles that make cozy holiday gifts like heavyweight sweatshirts, ones that make high-value company swag in our performance sweatshirts selection, decoration-friendly blanks that earned a reputation in the market, and more. Explore plus-size hoodies, plus-size crewneck sweatshirts, or score deals on big-size sweatshirts.

To make it extra special for the holidays, we protect every order with even better return policies and secure checkout. You can check out with a free guest account and get quick help from our customer support team whenever needed. Decorations and fulfillment processes are streamlined for quicker delivery, with results of professional-grade quality at the best overall prices. 

Why Plus Size & Oversized Layers are In


Because it’s layering time! 
From December chill to spring’s last flurries, cozy wear hits different. This winter, shoppers are searching for plus-size hoodies, plus-size sweatshirts, and plus-size sweaters that actually fit and flatter. Demand is soaring for oversized silhouettes, cropped cuts, and ultra-soft fleece pieces - especially sizes 3X, 4X, and 5X.​

What’s Trending Now: Our Picks in Plus Size & Oversized Cozy Wear


Oversized, But With Structure: Baggy, unshaped layers still retain their popularity. But structured oversized sweatshirts with dropped shoulders and thicker fleece will likely dominate this holiday like last year. 

Vintage: Vintage sweatshirts & hoodies have an undeniable charm that has been keeping them in the spotlight for a few years now. They are having a serious moment in the U.S. Retail market currently, and would make great additions for the 2025 winter wardrobe.

Cropped: Plus-size cropped hoodies and zip-up cropped sweatshirts give you on-trend lengths that actually work for 3X and up. They’ve been raging in TikTok for a while now. Our Bella+Canvas collection features a few cropped sweatshirt styles you might be interested in.

Bold Graphics and Logos: Graphic plus-size hoodies and printed sweatshirts have always been trending for all genders. These make perfect gifts.​

Fleece: Fleece (classic or French terry), breathable cotton blends, and knits built for warmth with minimal bulk is what our customers prefer more. ​

Color Options: Neutrals- cream, black, deep brown - These colors were really popular last year. But we also recommend getting seasonal statement colors like olive, rust, or pastel gradients.​

Fit & Sizing Guide: Find Your Just-Right Layer


Shopping for plus-size and big-size hoodies shouldn’t require a lot of guesswork. Here’s how to dial in fit:
Unisex Vs. Women’s: Unisex plus size sweatshirts typically offer more room in the chest, longer sleeves, and a straighter cut ideal for big & tall shoppers. Women’s plus-size hoodies add shaping at the waist and more bust room.

Popular Sizes & Cut Details

Top-selling fits run from 2XL to 5XL. Zip-up and pullover hoodies are sought-after with crewnecks to keep it classic, v-necks to add length, and short sleeves/shrug styles to help with layering.
Always check detailed size charts for chest, sleeve, and length measurements before you buy. For a hassle-free fit, use a flexible tape around the fullest part of your chest and hips while wearing a tee.

Size XL 2XL 3XL 4XL 5XL
Body Length 30 31 32 33 34
Body Length Tolerance +/-1 +/-1 +/-1 +/-1 +/-1
Chest Tolerance +/-1 +/-1 +/-1 +/-1 +/-1
Chest Width (Laid Flat) 26 28 30 32 34
Sleeve Length (From Center Back) 36 1/2 37 1/2 38 1/2 39 1/2 40 1/2
Sleeve Tolerance +/-1 +/-1 +/-1 +/-1 +/-1


Product Types & Use Cases


Pullover & Crew: Great for lounging, errands, and layering. We have women's plus-size pullover hoodies in our collection that consistently get very positive reviews for comfort and versatility. Crewnecks like the Hanes P160 and the JERZEES 562MR are popular for cozy comfort and casual appeal. 
Female model wearing red Hanes P160 fleece sweatshirt and male model wearing navy JERZEES 562MR crewneck sweatshirt for wholesale apparel comparison
Zip-Ups & Layering: Zip-up sweatshirts are must-haves for easy on/off - perfect over tees and great for team events, or travel. We recommend the G186 full-zip from Gildan if you are looking for something basic and customization-friendly. For women, the PRM2500Z full-zip from Independent Trading Company is a fashionable and very comfortable choice.
Female model wearing sage Independent PRM2500Z zip hoodie and male model wearing purple Gildan 18600 full zip hoodie in wholesale apparel comparison
Lightweight Options: Go for plus-size lightweight hoodies for school, gym, or year-round layering. The SS1000 lightweight terry hoodie is a great choice for layering.
Male model wearing light blue Independent SS1000 lightweight pullover hoodie for wholesale buyers
Cropped & Streetwear: Plus-size cropped hoodies can offer a youthful energy to most streetwear outfit styles. The Bella+Canvas 7502 blank crop fleece hoodie for women is our top-selling style in this category, coming in up to 2XL sizes. 
Female model wearing Bella Canvas 7502 beige cropped hoodie for wholesale apparel
Graphics: As always, creative prints and logos are big this season, for both casual and gifting. Plus-sized hoodies are also picking up momentum in the gaming community, especially among streamers, with prints inspired by iconic video game titles.

Plus Size Sweaters


Staples: Knits, v-necks, and longline styles suit work or the weekend.

Seasonal: Midweight sweatshirts and hoodies for fall, heavyweight sweatshirts and hoodies for winter, and summer blends for all-year use. Check out our guide on heavyweight sweatshirts to make it easier for you to choose the right style for winter. We recommend styles from Independent Trading Company for their amazing comfort and feel.

Textures/Lengths: Ribbed or cable textures, oversized cardis, or long sweaters can add depth and variety.

Matching Sets: Sweater sets and cardigans are also trending for the put-together comfort crew.

Pullover

Warmth
High
Stretch
Medium
Layering Ease
Good
Dress-up Factor
Mid–High

Zip-Up

Warmth
High
Stretch
Medium
Layering Ease
Excellent
Dress-up Factor
Mid

Sweater

Warmth
Mid
Stretch
Low
Layering Ease
Good
Dress-up Factor
High


Brand Spotlight: Why Gildan Plus Size is the Top Preference for Many


Among our brands that offer blank big size and plus size sweatshirts and hoodies, Gildan stands out as a favorite of our customers. Because it’s just too easy to get Gildan. Despite criticisms of their t-shirts, Gildan sweatshirts and hoodies are consistently praised in the market for their budget-friendliness and their soft and durable fabrics. But we believe one of the best things about Gildan’s offerings is the color lineup, which extends up to 5XL for many styles, including the iconic Gildan 18500 (G185) hoodie and its crewneck counterpart, the G180. This makes them a go-to for both individuals and clubs needing blanks. Unisex cuts are generally how you can get a perfect layer. Shop Gildan plus-size sweatshirts or check out Gildan big-size hoodies at very low wholesale prices in YouApparel.​

Two male models wearing Gildan 18500 black hoodie and Gildan 18000 maroon crewneck sweatshirt side by side for wholesale fleece comparison

Tips to Style Big Size & Plus Size Sweatshirts


Work From Home/Loungewear: Crewnecks paired with joggers for that "stay-in" vibe.

Streetwear: Oversized plus-size hoodies, leggings/joggers, chunky sneakers.

Smart Casual: V-neck plus-size sweaters over collared shirts for workplaces.

Transitional: Lightweight hoodies under jackets for go-anywhere layering.

Color Capsules: We offer trendy styles to build looks with neutral anchors (cream/black/brown), which can then be layered in bolds.

For winter layering:

  • Base (cotton tee), mid (fleece crewneck), outer (parka, windbreaker).
  • Go for zip-up hoodies to vent indoors/outdoors easily during transitions.
  • Pair with accessories like gloves, beanies, and scarves for a full winter armor.

For holiday gifting: 

Gifts that fit are a win. Blank sweatshirts with a 100% cotton face to take some holiday artworks, cozy zip-up hoodies, and soft blankets top the gift list this year. Many brands now offer matching sets perfect for holiday photos in sizes up to 5X. Everything looks better personalized. Gildan plus-size sweatshirts are made for this. But we have options from other brands too, like Jerzees and Hanes. The Hanes P170 hoodie is eco-friendly, great for printing, offers many color options, and comes in 5XL. The JERZEES 996MR is a more budget-friendly alternative with an impressive range of colors & sizing options. 

Male model wearing turquoise JERZEES 996MR hoodie and male model wearing red Hanes P170 hoodie in wholesale fleece comparison

Ready to Shop? 

Use This Quick Hoodie & Sweater Checklist
  1. Size & Measurements: 3X, 4X, 5X available (always double-check the chart)
  2. Style: Pullover, zip-up, adjustable features
  3. Neckline/Sleeve: Crew, v-neck, short/long
  4. Fabric: Fleece, terry, cotton blends
  5. Care: Wash cold, inside-out, tumble dry low
For some of the finest ready-to-ship cozy sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts in plus sizes, explore our full collection. Get them customized for the holidays at the best costs with our professional-grade customization services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between plus size hoodies and oversized big-size hoodies?

Plus-size hoodies are designed for curvier, fuller figures, utilizing sizing and pattern alterations specifically tailored for women or unisex fits, with attention to shoulder breadth, hip width, and bust.​ Oversized big-size hoodies are intentionally roomy and generally feature extended measurements in shoulders, sleeves, torso, and overall length, often with a relaxed drop-shoulder. Oversized is suitable for all genders and those preferring an extra-loose silhouette.​ Oversized hoodies are ideal for streetwear looks and cozy layering, while plus-size hoodies prioritize proportionate scaling for curves.

Are unisex plus size sweatshirts better for broad shoulders?

Yes, unisex plus-size sweatshirts typically offer broader shoulders and increased chest space.​ They suit wearers with wider shoulders or ones who find women’s cuts too narrow in the shoulders.

Do plus size cropped hoodies work for 3X–4X body types?

Cropped plus-size hoodies for 2XL and above body types feature longer sleeves and carefully scaled body lengths so that the hem sits at a flattering spot.​

What are some styling tips for plus size cropped hoodies?

We suggest pairing with high-waisted jeans, joggers, or over bodycon tanks to balance proportions. You can add a longline tank or tee underneath for extra coverage.

Are Gildan plus size sweatshirts true to size in unisex fits?

Yes, Gildan’s unisex plus-size sweatshirts are known for true-to-size fits. The feedback from our customers also mostly mentions it. Our buyers rarely report major shrinkage.

Are plus size graphic hoodies printable/embroidery-friendly?

Most plus-size blank hoodies in YouApparel support both screen printing and embroidery. Check with our customer support for info on decoration possibilities.

Where to find plus size hoodies 4X in stock during holiday rush?

YouApparel stocks a wide range of 4X options, updated live on the site. Shop early, capitalize on our seasonal sales, and opt for dependable brands like Gildan or Independent Trading Company.

Which wholesale brands offer the best plus-size hoodies and sweatshirts (2XL–5XL)?

For wide, budget-friendly size runs (2XL–5XL), pick Gildan, JERZEES, or Hanes. For softer, retail-look blanks in 3XL–4XL with crisp DTG/DTF and clean embroidery, go Independent Trading Co. or Next Level Apparel. For performance and team colors up to 5XL, choose Core 365 or Team 365.