The days of the fleece jacket serving the sole purpose of hiking, camping, or other outdoorsy activities are over. This warm, cozy, blanket-like piece of outerwear has entered the fashion space by way of the “ugly” dad trend, and brands across the spectrum have stepped up their game in quality, creativity, and design. Whether it’s via a designer label like Isabel Marant or an O.G. fleece from Patagonia, you’re getting them from high-fashion houses all the way through to your favorite adventure and activewear brands. It’s clearly a hot-ticket item that brings just as much gorpcore fashion as it does function.
Like any good fashion girl, you need to be fully prepared (in style) for whatever weather is thrown at you. That’s where the fashion fleece comes into play. It’s as an easy, seasonal topper and the most comfortable winter closet staple for anything from New York’s polar vortex bodega runs to L.A.’s somewhat chilly “winter” nights and every other scenario in between. Ahead, we’re sharing 28 of this season’s best fleece jackets broken down by micro-trend so you can find one that is true to your fashion personality.
Let’s all take a moment to thank Sandy Liang for officially making the fleece jacket a fashion statement. She brought the jacket to a new level of cool by infusing details like patchwork, animal print, and even camo into the mix. She’s not the only one giving the cozy jacket an edgy update. Below, shop versions with the same vibe from brands like Alo Yoga, & Other Stories, and more.
Ah, the most fitting personality for what this piece actually is: a windbreaker of sorts, but in a cozy material that makes you want to bundle up. We’re loving the retro nod with asymmetrical stripes and neon piping. Some of the pieces below are made for active outdoorsy adventures, while the others are more geared toward achieving an outdoorsy look without actually venturing into the wilderness.
My favorite grouping of the fleece jacket is a bit crunchy, granola, mountain-girl chic, if you will. From Free People to Patagonia and even Isabel Marant, you’ll find a free-spirited style that just might suddenly inspire a trip to Colorado.
For those who love neutrals, basics, and clean lines, the minimalistic grouping of fleece jackets are for you. Consider this a part of your winter wardrobe regulars. Some of these are even unisex (or they make a men’s version) so please, I’m begging you, share this with any guy who might want to get in on the trend, too.
From fun colors to sweeter pastels, floral prints and glitter details, these fleece jackets will make a statement in even the greyest winter days.
Next, the best leggings and bike shorts to sleep in.