Anyone who delves into the world of streetwear will sooner or later come across the name Fear of God. Designed by Jerry Lorenzo, the brand has grown into one of the most influential names in modern fashion. Yet many people get confused by the two lines: Fear of God Mainline and Essentials Fear of God.
Although both collections share the same minimalist DNA, they focus on completely different goals and target audiences. In this blog, Snrkickz explains the difference between the two, so you know exactly which line fits your style.
The Origin of Fear of God Mainline
The first line by Jerry Lorenzo, simply called Fear of God, was launched in 2013. The brand immediately made its mark with luxury streetwear where religious symbolism, American culture, and high fashion come together.
Each collection consists of carefully crafted pieces produced in limited editions. Think oversized coats, suede hoodies, leather pants, and handmade sneakers. Production takes place in Italy and the United States, enhancing exclusivity and quality.
Fear of God Mainline is known for its bold silhouettes, refined materials, and minimalist luxury. Prices are in the higher range—a hoodie quickly costs over a thousand euros—but this matches the level of craftsmanship and couture-like approach with which Lorenzo presents his designs.
Essentials Fear of God is the more streetwear line
In 2018, Jerry Lorenzo introduced Essentials Fear of God as a response to the growing demand for affordable, everyday wearable items with the same look as the Mainline. Essentials is therefore not a copy, but an accessible extension of the brand.
The focus here is on comfort, simplicity, and recognizability. Think oversized hoodies, sweatpants, and T-shirts with subtle branding. Discover the best-selling colors in our Essentials collection.
Where Fear of God Mainline is about exclusive fashion statements, Essentials focuses on the basics of every wardrobe—clothing you can wear every day. It is minimalist, clean, and exudes the same calm as the high-end line, but at a much friendlier price.
Difference in material, production, and fit
The difference between the two lines starts with the choice of materials. Fear of God Mainline uses high-quality Italian wool, cashmere, suede, and premium leather. Everything is hand-finished and designed for the runway and the elite streetwear scene.
Essentials Fear of God, on the other hand, works with heavy cotton blends, fleece, and high-quality jersey, but with a more industrial production. This makes the line more practical, affordable, and widely available.
The fit is another distinguishing point. Both lines are known for oversized silhouettes, but Essentials has a more streamlined, casual fit that better suits everyday use. Mainline is more expressive—broader shoulders, longer sleeves, extreme proportions—intended to make a statement.
Price and exclusivity
The price difference between the two lines is significant. Essentials items typically range between 100 and 250 euros, while Fear of God Mainline often starts around 600 euros and can go well above 2000 euros.
Mainline collections are also not mass-produced. They appear only a few times a year in selected boutiques and high-end retailers. Essentials, on the other hand, is sold worldwide through platforms like SSENSE, PacSun, and of course Snrkickz, where the focus is on the most popular colors and fits.
The difference in clothing
What binds both lines is the minimalist character. Jerry Lorenzo uses earthy tones, clean lines, and a subtle religious undertone in both Fear of God and Essentials.
Yet the emphasis is different:
You could say that Mainline is about identity, while Essentials is about consistency. Where the first distinguishes you, the second gives your style stability.
Which line suits you?
Are you looking for refined, luxurious pieces with a distinctive design? Then Fear of God Mainline is your choice. Each item tells a story and almost feels like a collectible.
If, on the other hand, you want minimalist streetwear that is comfortable, stylish, and accessible, then the Essentials Fear of God Winter collection offers exactly what you are looking for. The collection shows that simplicity can be powerful—a philosophy Jerry Lorenzo has remained true to from the beginning.
Size advice and fit of Essentials Fear of God
The fit of Essentials Fear of God is one of the brand’s key features. Each item is designed with Jerry Lorenzo’s signature oversized silhouette but fits comfortably and naturally on the body. Sweaters and hoodies have a slightly boxy fit with dropped shoulders, making them look relaxed without losing shape. The sweatpants and shorts fit loose on the hips, with a tapered leg that provides a modern balance between streetwear and comfort.
If you normally fall between two sizes, you can often take one size smaller with Essentials.