AND back, but not as we remembered. Forget the automatic reflex that links it to free time, to the sports wardrobe, to the weekend away: in 2026 the half-zip sweatshirt, once associated with campuses and tennis clubs, changes tone. More than a simple sports shirt, today it appears as an intelligent middle ground between hoodie and pullover, between practicality and style.
At a time when the business casual look is looking for new shapes, less rigid than the classic blazer or suit shirt, the quarter-zipin fleece or nylon, It stands out as a glamorous detail. Thanks to the stylists, who even brought it to the catwalk: just think of the opening look of Chanel’s Métiers d’Art 2026 collection by Matthieu Blazy, or the Saint Laurent technical jackets designed by Anthony Vaccarello for Spring Summer 2026. It doesn’t take much to transform the must-have: a pair of tailored trousers, a romantic skirt. The result is a simple but studied outfit, even sensual if played with the right contrasts. Here then 5 ideas to try now to bring the half-zip sweatshirt into 2026, with a decidedly more chic attitude than in the past.
With the romantic skirt
With ruffle hem, mini with jewel applications, even boho. The skirt characterized by feminine details finds its perfect counterpoint in the zipped sweatshirt. To be chosen in contrast to highlight the styling game or tone on tone to focus on effortless elegance.
Zipped sweatshirt and tailored trousers
Traditional suit trousers with pleats are transformed into the ideal substitute for joggers for those looking for a business casual outfit. Just pair them with a half-zip sweatshirt, to be worn as a main top or under a jacket.
The zip-up sweatshirt in the under-jacket version, with the office suit. (Getty Images)
On the shirt
The sweatshirt worn over the men’s shirt works perfectly if worn with the half zip open, to reveal the shirt underneath. Light blue or striped, with a masculine cut, it is enhanced by a gray or blue sweatshirt, also printed or with visible logos.
Sweatshirt with half zip and exposed shirt, for a business casual look. (Getty Images)
Pijama style
The new leisure uniform? Half-zip sweatshirt and striped pajama-style trousers during the daylingerie shorts or satin slip with lace edges in the evening. An irresistible and sensual sporty chic mix that trendsetters like, easy to replicate 24 hours a day.
Striped pijama style trousers and zip sweatshirt, the new free time outfit. (Getty Images)
On jeans
There quote from the Chanel opening look worn by Indian model Bhavitha Mandava: quarter-zip sweatshirt and jeans. Variations on the theme, a loose denim model and the addition of the Y2K belt; or again, the choice of a sweatshirt in a bright colour, to be worn next to the skin over light canvas trousers.
Jeans and quarter-zip: the viral outfit in 2026 from Chanel onwards, all to be copied. (GC Images)
The combinations are among the most varied, but the combination (almost) always works.
Just experiment with footwear to obtain a look that veers towards daily college or a relaxed aperitif-proof elegance. Relaxed, but never banal.
