My Chicest Friends Are Wearing Quarter-Zip Knits Instead of V-Necks—15 Affordable Styles I Love
The ultimate in low-key cool, quarter-zip knits currently have the fashion world in a chokehold. Shop the 15 best high-street quarter-zip knits below.
Let it be known, quarter-zip knits officially have the fashion world in a chokehold for 2026. If there was ever any doubt, Matthieu Blazy settled it at Chanel’s latest Métiers d’Art show, when he sent the first look—a beige quarter-zip jumper with a crisp white T-shirt underneath and perfectly loose jeans—down that NYC subway platform. So simple, yet so utterly cool.
For years, knitwear has revolved around roll necks, crew necks and even V-necks. The quarter zip is like their fresher younger sibling. So, it’s no surprise this silhouette is already on track to become one of the most coveted knitwear pieces of the season, across both high end and high street collections.
What makes the quarter zip so compelling is its balance of opposites that gives a laid-back yet polished vibe. The zip itself feels sporty, practical and relaxed, but a fine or cable-knit fabrication and some smart styling can instantly elevate it. Recently I've seen so many of my fashion friends sporting the look, paired with maybe a wool coat and tailored trousers for the office, or jeans at the weekend. It's such a subtle but effective way to update last year's layers.
Considering we all want to be dressing comfort-first at the tail end of winter, while still feeling like we're one step ahead for the new year, a quarter-zip knit couldn't be a more perfect January investment. Especially with so many chic styles available on the more affordable end of the scale right now, giving that premium designer look for less. It'll also hold up come spring when we can ditch the coats and just this light layer will do.
Keep scrolling to see 15 of the best quarter-zip knits on the high street right now.
Shop the Best-High-Street Quarter-Zip Knits:
This is a standout. Sporty yet elevated and chic.
I love the tucked-in styling here.
Don't sleep on the men's department when looking for quarter-zip knits.
New-in and sure to sell out soon.
A black sweatshirt version feels more relaxed.
Another men's style that will give a lovely oversized slouch.
This comes in three chic colours. We love the burgundy for now, but the cream will hit the spot nearer to spring.
Chocolate brown everything, please.
This looks cosy too.
Such good value.
We always lean on Uniqlo for quality.
A cool two-tone version.
This is a great affordable alternative for the Chanel jumper!
This under a big black coat.
The cable knit adds a cosier vibe for colder days.
