Origin hoodie steals spotlight in Maduro's New York arrival after arrest

Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro's capture by U.S. forces on January 3 sparked initial viral buzz over his gray Nike Tech Fleece tracksuit, which quickly sold out amid online memes.

The fashion frenzy shifted dramatically upon Maduro's arrival in New York, where photos captured him wearing a Patriot Blue hoodie from Origin, a Maine-based American apparel brand focused on domestic manufacturing.

Surrounded by DEA agents, Maduro gave two thumbs-up in the US$79-US$140 garment, thrusting the previously low-profile company into massive attention.

Origin CEO Peter Roberts addressed the unexpected exposure, suggesting a DEA agent likely provided the hoodie due to cold weather, and noted Maduro seemed to appreciate the fabric based on his gesture.

Roberts highlighted the irony, as the hoodie's "wave of freedom" design aligns with Origin's mission to revive U.S. manufacturing.

The brand welcomed Maduro to America on social media, announcing pre-orders for the spring-release hoodie amid surging traffic and sales.