When you think of a half-zip jumper, what image comes to your mind?
Perhaps it’s middle-aged dads keeping warm on the sidelines of a school sports day, or hikers and dog-walkers in functional outerwear.
These days, however, you’d be more likely to see them on Instagram – and high-end designers and high street stores alike are taking notice.
A few years back, half-zip sweaters were the preserve of the comfort-over-style crowd, typically coming in drab colours or sweat-wicking fabrics.
But alongside the rise of the ‘dadcore’ aesthetic – which saw chunky trainers, straight-cut jeans, and cargo shorts going from cringe to cool – the half-zip style is back in a big way.
There are two tricks for rocking one (without looking like you strolled off the moors or out of the bingo hall): introduce surprising cuts and colours into the mix, or go luxe with premium fabrics.
With offbeat fleecy and cashmere and merino options, there’s something for everyone. And given we’re well into the British cold season, you’ll get the added benefit of staying cosy while earning serious style points.
Here are our top picks:
Lorna Pink Alpaca Blend Zip Collar Sweater
Asos Design Half Zip Fleece with Wavy Print
The Felted Merino Half-Zip Sweater
Mango Patch Pocket Zip Neck Jumper
Faux fleece zip sweater
Buy for £18 (on sale) from Monki.
Zip-top rib-knit jumper
Recycled Alpaca Mix Jumper with High Neck
Buy for £31.20 (on sale) at La Redoute.
High Neck Stripe Detail Knitted Sweater
Yale Waffle Zip
Striped Knit Vest
UO Mountains Fleece Sweatshirt
Buy for £52 from Urban Outfitters.
Beige Zip Neck Cable Knit Jumper
Half Zip Knitted Jumper
Buy for £38 from River Island.
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