Why Quarter-Zips Are Trending in 2025
A Meme = Fashion Cross-Over
Quarter-zips didn’t just return through fashion – they came back through memes also. Highsnobiety highlighted how the “6–7 slop,” old-money humour, finance-bro jokes, and matcha-holding TikTok characters pushed the quarter-zip into the spotlight. It became both an ironic symbol and a real style choice.
Shift Toward Clean, Preppy Fits
After years of techwear, oversized streetwear, and loud logos, people are gravitating toward cleaner, more minimal silhouettes again. The quarter-zip fits perfectly into the 2024-2025 shift toward quiet, simple outfits.
Seasonally Perfect Layering
It’s warm, easy to layer, works with almost any outfit, and fits the winter aesthetic. As soon as temperatures dropped, quarter-zips naturally resurfaced.
Brands Bringing Them Back
From high street to premium labels, brands have reintroduced quarter-zips in new cuts and fabrics – pushing the trend back into the mainstream.
Nostalgic Y2K & College-Core Influence
That early-2000s sporty-preppy energy is back. Quarter-zips were a staple of uni campuses, Ivy League style, and dad-core outfits – all of which are trending again.
What Are People’s Opinions of the Quarter-Zip Trend?
The Internet Is Split (As Always)
Some people genuinely love the look – others think it’s hilarious. That’s part of the charm. The quarter-zip has become one of those rare pieces that’s both a fashion staple and a meme.
Meme Culture Loves It
The “old-money 6–7 slop” jokes, matcha memes, and corporate-core humour made quarter-zips part of the timeline. For many, wearing one is half-style, half-irony.
Fashion People Respect the Simplicity
On the menswear side, quarter-zips are seen as clean, minimal, versatile, and perfect for winter layering. Highsnobiety even pointed out that the fashion crowd has embraced it without the irony.
Some Still See It as ‘Finance Bro Uniform’
There’s definitely still a portion of people who associate quarter-zips with tech bros, sales reps, or corporate life. But that association works both ways, it’s why the trend became ironic and stylish at the same time.
Our View? Trends Are for Everyone
Who cares if people love it, hate it, or meme it? If it’s trending and you want to try it, you shouldn’t have to pay premium prices. That’s what we’re here for.
Best Affordable Quarter-Zip Picks
Whether you’re easing into the trend or want to fully embrace the quarter-zip comeback, there are plenty of options at every price point; from high street staples to designer labels and streetwear favourites.
High Street Brands
If you’re after a stylish quarter-zip without spending big, these high street options are perfect and affordable (all options linked):
- Zara: Clean and minimal, Zara’s basic quarter-zips are affordable, versatile, and perfect for layering. (£35+)
- H&M: Lightweight and budget-friendly, H&M’s regular fit zip-tops are great for everyday wear. (£38+)
- Mango: Their cotton-blend quarter-zips give a sporty twist on a classic style. (£49+)
- Marks & Spencer: Classic, durable options with good quality fabrics, perfect for winter layering. (£38+)
- Abercrombie: Branded options with a simple, heritage vibe. (£65+)
- Massimo Dutti: Fine-knit zip-necks offer a more refined, understated look. (£69+)
These options are widely available and make it easy to try the trend without a big investment.
High Street Brands
For those who want a more recognizable name or slightly higher quality, but don’t want to be paying full price these picks strike a balance between trend and investment and always have a sale ongoing somewhere (all prices as per LoveTheSales (no products linked)):
- Ralph Lauren (Quarter-zip essential): From mesh-knit to waffle-knit quarter-zips, these are wardrobe essentials. (£95+)
- Lacoste: Zip fleeces with the iconic crocodile logo give classic, preppy style. (£95+)
- Tommy Hilfiger: Essentials and mock-neck designs offer smart, clean silhouettes. (£72)
- Fred Perry: Timeless half-zips bring a sporty, retro vibe. (£80)
- Signet: Known for simple, stylish takes on the classic quarter-zip. (£90)
If you’re a price conscious shopper, always looking out for sales, outlet deals, or past-season discounts, you can often get these designer pieces at reasonable prices.
Streetstyle / Workwear Brands
If you prefer rugged, streetwear-inspired styles, check out (all prices as per LoveTheSales (no products linked)):
- Carhartt: Midweight quarter-zips built to last, perfect for a practical yet stylish layer. (£76)
- Dickies: Affordable, durable options like the Oakport quarter-zip fit effortlessly into a streetwear wardrobe. (£40)
- Other streetwear brands: Consider brands like Nike, Champion, or Patagonia for functional, trend-conscious quarter-zips.
These pieces work especially well if you like the “core” aesthetic or want something durable for winter layering.
Bottom line: Whether you’re looking for high street accessibility, designer recognition, or streetwear durability, there’s a quarter-zip out there for every budget – and every style. Now you can join the Winter 2025 trend without overspending.
Final Thoughts
Quarter-zips might be having a meme moment (if we consider Highsnobiety’s take), but the truth is simple: trend or not, they’re practical, comfortable, and easy to style – and that’s exactly why they’re back in rotation for Winter 2025.
Whether you lean towards high street basics, smarter designer options, or rugged streetwear staples, there’s no reason to overspend. The trend works at every budget, and the best part? You can wear it your way – ironic or not.
If you like finding the best designer-inspired pieces without the high price tag, explore the rest of our Affordable Fashion Edit – updated weekly with new alternatives, finds and streetwear essentials.
