Once viewed as purely practical, the humble fleece has undergone a quiet fashion revival. No longer reserved solely for off-duty errands or outdoor pursuits, it's become a wardrobe essential, offering warmth without sacrificing style. As we approach the transitional months, now is the moment to rethink your layering staples, and a well-chosen fleece can be worn through to summer.
- The trending fleece: M&S Borg Fleece Jacket, £36
- The sporty fleece: H&M Teddy Jacket, £37.99 / $49.99
- The editor-approved fleece: Arket Pile Jacket, £119
- The luxe fleece: VARLEY Lowell Fleece Jacket, £180 / $230
- The loungewear fleece: Skims Half Zip Pullover, £146 / $138
Luxury fashion has played its part in the shift. From runway styling at Miu Miu to the wider embrace of sportswear-inspired layers, the fleece has been reworked as something intentional rather than incidental. Today’s versions are cut cleaner, feel elevated and slot easily into a pared-back capsule wardrobe.
Layering is key during winter, and every fleece in this edit is ideal for throwing on over knitwear and underneath thicker longline coats.
How to style a fleece jacket
The beauty of a fleece jacket is its versatility. I usually wear them slightly oversized, and with everything from slouchy jeans or wide-leg trousers with UGGs, to leggings and trainers creating a contrasting, chic silhouette. You could even style them with leather trousers, or shorts as we move into spring.
© @iamcharlotteolivia
© GC ImagesHow I chose the best fleece jackets
- Comfort: When it comes to colder months, cosiness is key. All of the fleece jackets in this edit are perfect for wrapping up warm.
- Price: Whether you're shopping for a piece that's high street or more high end, there's something for every budget, starting from £36.
- Trusted brands: Everything included in this edit is from labels I would personally recommend. I have fleeces from several of these brands including Arket, H&M and Varley.
1/9
M&S Borg Fleece Jacket
Editor's Note:
Proof that fleece can look genuinely chic, this borg jacket from M&S has a streamlined silhouette and plush texture that will elevate your everyday outfits. Perfect for layering over everything from slouchy denim to tailored trousers, it’s a winter staple you’ll reach for on repeat.
2/9
H&M Teddy Jacket
Editor's Note:
A cosy take on sportswear, this teddy fleece from H&M layers effortlessly over leggings, tanks and tees. Plush, warming and with a relaxed stand-collar, it feels both functional and fashion-forward. Made from thermal fleece, it comes with hidden pockets and a sleek zip.
3/9
VARLEY Lowell Fleece Jacket
Editor's Note:
Style insiders love Varley for its luxurious activewear and loungewear. Made from cosy fleece and trimmed with the brand's signature DoubleSoft fabric, you can also cinch the hem using the internal drawstring to change up the silhouette.
4/9
Arket Pile Jacket
Editor's Note:
I have this Arket fleece and I live in it. It's so warm and cosy and easy to chuck on over anything when I'm quickly leaving the house. I usually wear it with athlesiure if I'm heading to a gym class or with wide-leg trousers to run errands. It's worth noting, it has quite an oversized fit.
5/9
ALO Sherpa Cropped Side Jacket
Editor's Note:
For a chic cropped style head to Alo. This is a bestseller for the celebrity-loved brand and could be worn everywhere from your gym class to apres ski. It features a high collar, dual zipper and faux leather details.
6/9
Skims Half Zip Pullover
Editor's Note:
A pullover that doubles as your winter dopamine. Plush fleece meets a half-zip silhouette for that effortlessly undone vibe, while the Cherry Blossom hue adds some fun to your loungewear. Perfect to wear for coffee runs or curling up with a book.
7/9
Free People Fleece Jacket
Editor's Note:
A playful twist on classic fleece, this striped jacket brings vintage ski energy to everyday winter outfits. The boxy cut and warm fabric make it the perfect layering staple that can be worn with high‑waisted jeans and chunky boots when you want to feel cosy and put together.
8/9
Boden Westminster Borg Jacket
Editor's Note:
Boden's best selling fleece is now on sale, and it's one you'll wear for years. It's cosy without looking bulky, has a classic navy hue, and also comes with practical zipped pockets.
9/9
Abercrombie & Fitch Teddy Fleece
Editor's Note:
Chocolate brown has been trending this winter and it's going nowhere fast. Oversized but structured, Abercrombie's quarter‑zip teddy turns errand-running into a style moment. I'd syle it with leggings or wide-leg denim.
