You’re Still Not Wearing Fleece?

December 16, 2024

When it comes to winter fashion, what's the first thing that pops into your head? A stiff, cold-weather coat? Or maybe a puffy puffer jacket? Sure, they're both solid choices. But when it comes to versatility, fleece takes the cake. From early fall to those pesky late-spring chills, a fleece is the perfect layer. And in the dead of winter? It's a cozy base layer that'll keep you toasty.

 

ⓒvogue, glass-onion

 

Maybe you've hesitated to embrace fleece in the past. But hear us out. We're talking about the soft, fluffy fabric that's been a wardrobe staple for years. While the term "fleece" technically refers to the wool of sheep, goats, or yaks, in fashion, it's usually a synthetic fabric like polyester that mimics the feel of wool. If you haven't tried fleece yet, you're missing out on one of the most comfortable fabrics ever created. Once you slip into one, you'll never want to take it off.

 

Shia LaBeouf's undeniable passion for fleece

     

Fleece has gone all the way from the mountain to the runway. Luxury brands are now incorporating fleece into their collections, proving that this once-humble fabric is a true fashion force. It's like seeing your childhood best friend become a supermodel.
  
Sacai FW24

Dior FW23, Filippa K FW23
SANDY LIANG FW20, 3.1 Phillip Lim FW19

Coach SS19 ⓒfilippa-k.com, ⓒvogue.com, ⓒpinterest
     
Miu Miu: This Italian fashion house has nailed the balance between sporty and feminine with their fleece collection. You even get three options, choose from a classic sweatshirt, a trendy cropped version, or a functional fleece jacket.
      
ⓒThe New York Times

MIU MIU ⓒmiumiu.com

 

Known for its bohemian aesthetic, ISABEL MARANT's fleece pieces feature faded colors and unique patterns.

 

ISABEL MARANT FW24 ⓒvogue.com

     

Match your daily look

With its roots deeply planted in outdoor activities, fleece is guaranteed to be functional which is a major plus. Given the wide range of brands now producing fleece, you can find the perfect piece to suit your style and get great value for your money. Keep reading to see our top fleece picks.
Rier, helmed by designer Andreas Steiner who spent his childhood in the Alps, is relentlessly pursuing the perfect balance of quality and practicality in its products. With proven materials, eco-friendly production methods, and exceptional durability, it's a flawless item. Its diverse color palette and sophisticated zipper details further enhance its appeal.
       
ⓒrierofficial.com, the-broken-arm

Dior footwear designer Thibo Dennis wearing a Rier fleece ⓒInstagram @_thibo

 

Japanese outdoor brand and wander has been evolving its fleece offerings. From simple yet functional anoraks to cardigans perfect for layering under outerwear and even jackets with added hoods for increased warmth, the brand's approach truly lives up to its reputation as an outdoor specialist.

  

ⓒand wander

 

Aime Leon Dore's fleece pieces, from bomber jackets to pop-overs, have captured the hearts of young New Yorkers. These elevated designs showcase the brand's commitment to high-quality streetwear.

 

Aime Leon Dore ⓒaimeleondore.com
 New Balance collaboration piece - Deep Pile Fleece

 

Fleece is a streetwear staple, often paired with denim and cargo pants. Supreme's numerous fleece collaborations have become highly sought-after collectibles, with some items fetching over $2,000 on the resale market.

 

ⓒGrailed

 

The brand's latest FW24 collection features a standout fleece piece, aptly named the Kate Moss Fleece Jacket. Crafted from premium Japanese brushed fleece, it offers an exceptionally soft feel.
The standout feature of this jacket is the full-back Kate Moss print. While it's also available in red, the ivory color might be a better choice for resale on platforms like Grailed.
  
Supreme FW24 ⓒSupreme
   

Finally there's Patagonia, the ultimate outdoor brand. Surprisingly, Patagonia was the first brand to commercialize fleece. Though it may have not been easily accessible due to it’s price, as outdoor looks started to become part of everyday fashion, those interested in fashion began to recognize the value of this precious item and willingly invested in it. The limitless combination of pastel and neon colors is a major draw, and its functionality also goes without saying.

    

ⓒalwaysincolour

ⓒNhỏgirl, Director of Amsterdam select shop Nhỏgirl in a Patagonia fleece

ⓒalwaysincolour

        

In the dead of winter, there’s only one reason we fight to keep the warmth alive: survival.
In fall, it’s a lightweight yet sturdy windbreaker. In winter, it’s the secret weapon that fills the gaps your outerwear can’t cover. And in early spring, it’s the cozy guide that shields you from the lingering chill. There’s a reason fleece has earned its place as everyone’s favorite—because it just gets the job done.