From Corporate Staple to Fashion Icon: The Quarter-Zip Revolution
Once dismissed as a joyless uniform for office drones, the quarter-zip sweater has undergone a remarkable transformation. No longer confined to the boardrooms of the City, this versatile garment is now celebrated as a key piece in contemporary menswear. The shift in perception is palpable, with fashion insiders and luxury brands alike embracing its potential for style and sophistication.
A Fashionable Rebirth
The journey of the quarter-zip from corporate trademark to fashion favourite has been gradual but undeniable. Influential labels such as Mfpen and Amiri introduced the style into their autumn/winter 2025 collections, setting the stage for luxury houses like Dior and Louis Vuitton to follow suit for spring/summer 2026. This endorsement from high fashion has propelled the quarter-zip into the spotlight, making it a coveted item among style-conscious individuals.
Celebrity sightings have further cemented its status. Jonathan Bailey, hailed as People magazine's sexiest man alive for 2025, has been spotted sporting the look, adding a touch of glamour to its appeal. The popularity of the quarter-zip is not just anecdotal; it's backed by data. According to the latest Lyst Index, Polo Ralph Lauren's cable-knit quarter-zip was named the top menswear buy, highlighting its global desirability.
Mastering the Art of Styling
The primary challenge with the quarter-zip is avoiding the corporate connotations that once defined it. The key is to steer clear of the finance bro aesthetic, often associated with shows like Industry or the public image of figures like Rishi Sunak. Here are some expert tips to ensure your quarter-zip ensemble exudes effortless cool rather than boardroom blandness.
Swap the Shirt for Something Casual
The most straightforward way to dodge corporate vibes is to replace the traditional shirt with a T-shirt or a polo. This simple switch disrupts the finance-type association and injects a relaxed feel into your outfit. If you do opt for a shirt, aim for a preppy rather than professional look. An Oxford shirt worn open at the collar can work wonders, while a tie should be chosen for its personality, not its formality.
Play with Layers and Textures
The zip feature offers creative styling opportunities. Use it to showcase a pop of colour, such as a vibrant red polo, or to add depth with a Breton stripe—a trend that's particularly strong this season. Experiment with different underpinnings at home to find combinations that feel fresh and individual.
Choose Relaxed Bottoms
Pair your quarter-zip with laid-back trousers to complete the look. Wide-leg tailored trousers, straight-leg jeans, work trousers, or even retro tracksuit bottoms can all work beautifully. The goal is to achieve an easy silhouette that feels intentional yet unforced, much like the style often seen on Jacob Elordi.
Selecting the Perfect Quarter-Zip
Beyond styling, the choice of quarter-zip itself can help you avoid corporate allegations. Opt for designs that lean relaxed rather than rigid. Look for details such as dropped shoulders, a relaxed fit, or contemporary textiles like scuba or ribbed knits. Even considering a sweatshirt version instead of a traditional jumper can make a difference. The ideal quarter-zip should appear as if you've thrown it on without a second thought—effortless and far from overworked.
Top Picks for Every Budget
Here are 14 standout quarter-zips that blend style with substance, catering to a range of preferences and price points.
- Polo Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Cotton Quarter-Zip – From £172, this classic piece offers refined collegiate finesse with a regular fit and versatile colours.
- M&S Cotton-Blend Ribbed Half-Zip Jumper – At £38, it's an affordable staple with premium-feeling ribbed construction and dropped shoulders.
- Fred Perry Half-Zip Sweatshirt – Priced at £95, it fuses athletic heritage with fashion subcultures in a casual, easy fit.
- Cos Boiled-Wool Zip-Up Polo Jumper – £95 for a minimal design with a fuzzy finish and relaxed cut.
- Weekday Loose Half-Zip Sweatshirt – From £21, this gen Z-friendly option features a slight crop ideal for layering.
- Double A by Wood Wood Wool Quarter-Zip – £145 for understated menswear with elevated details like lamb's wool textile.
- Arket Knitted Half-Zip Jumper – £65 for minimal Scandi style with a relaxed cut and soft cotton knit.
- Octobre Éditions Wesson Sweatshirt – £110 exuding Parisian cool-guy energy with a classic yet relaxed fit.
- Mango Sweatshirt with Soft-Touch Inner Zip Neck – £45.99 for a simple, relaxed-fit navy take from an underrated high-street brand.
- L'Estrange The 24 Merino Half-Zip – £159 for a versatile merino wool design from a London-based capsule wardrobe specialist.
- Zara Regular-Fit Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt – £49.99 offering quiet luxury with smooth loop-back cotton and a laid-back cut.
- A Day's March Drew Half-Zip Sweatshirt – £130 for timeless Swedish design with a pointed collar and boxy cut in chic chocolate brown.
- Charles Tyrwhitt Merino Quarter-Zip – £79.95 for a classic merino wool jumper that feels more expensive than its price tag.
- J Crew '83 Fleece Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt – £143 for a bold red statement piece perfect for embracing spring/summer 2026's colourful mood.
By following these tips and exploring these recommendations, you can confidently incorporate the quarter-zip into your wardrobe, ensuring you look fashion-forward without a hint of corporate cliché. Embrace this trend with creativity and flair, making it your own in the ever-evolving world of menswear.
