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You most probably have one of these hanging on a coat rack, slung over the back of your office chair or stashed in your 'comfy' drawer. Perhaps you're snuggled up in one as you read this.
Borg, teddy, half-zip or buttoned, it's the cosy, warm staple we can't get enough of. I'm talking about the humble fluffy fleece, of course.
But if you think yours is reserved for slouching, then think again. The fleece has gone fancy and has been deemed fit for wear beyond working from home, windy park walkways, gym visits - and the sofa.
Just ask the street-style set, who've been wearing theirs to brave the front row - and the snow - at the recent Copenhagen Fashion Week, and as they head Stateside this week for shows in New York, where temperatures can hit freezing.
But these It-girls are not pairing them with the usual leggings and tracksuit pants. Instead, they're wearing theirs with pencil skirts, straight leg jeans, tailored trousers or black hot pants and tights, with sleek loafers, heeled boots and ballet pumps.
Having road-tested ample fleeces at Fashion Week myself, I've learnt that the trick to amping up this casual jacket is to lean into the outdoor-core aesthetic, or to offset the texture with polished pieces.
Read on for the top tips on how to wear yours now - and where to buy our top best six!
- Free People Mountain High half-zip fleece, £88
As the name suggests, this one is brilliant for outdoor pursuits. Run-fluencers and popular TikToking hikers caused this half-zip to sell out when it first launched. And with good reason. It's ultra-soft, especially against bare arms and it's wonderfully warm.
Available in 11 different colourways and five sizes, from XS-XL, you're bound to find one that tickles your fancy. I love the colour-pop seams which instantly lift the most paired back of outfits. - Varley Mumford half-zip fleece, £114
If you've ever bought anything from Varley before, you'll know that all of its designs are super soft and comfy—and the ivory Mumford fleece is no exception.
The dropped shoulders and V-neckline are really flattering on larger busts, and I like to leave a roll-neck or the top of a white T-shirt just visible to achieve that laid-back, effortlessly cool look.
Zip-fastening side splits at the hem will also help you to play with the shape of this fleece. And the thick ribbed trims along with the gold hardware make it look even more luxe. - Joules 2-in-1 zip-up borg fleece jacket, £99
The beauty of this innovative borg number is that you can unzip the arms to make it sleeveless.
Technically, you're buying a fleece and a gilet in one, which is excellent for layering and prolonging its wear into spring.
The tonal look to this jacket is right on the mark when it comes to the minimal dressing trend.
I also rate the funnel neck and the handy toggles on the hem, which can be tightened to give you a cropped bomber silhouette. When the sun finally returns, ditch the sleeves and throw it on over a crisp white shirt. - V by Very tie-waist borg jacket, £28
Thanks to its fabulous details—see the front patch pockets and flattering drawstring waist—you would never know this jacket costs less than £50.
I love that you can cinch it in at the waist, as some fleeces can really swamp your frame and make you look frumpy rather than fabulous. It also happens to be the perfect shade of teddy beige.
The curved hemline is flattering for those of us on the shorter side. The contrast piping will pair wonderfully with a brown wool coat, or a chocolate hue polo-neck underneath. - Hush Alina borg jacket, £95
The clever Alina jacket has a roomy fit so you can add layers underneath on chilly days. I also use this as a liner for extra warmth under coats like my trench.
The buttons make it feel less sporty and more sophisticated. And this gorgeous off-white stone shade means it easy to coordinate with the rest of my wardrobe.
The monochrome contrast paneling on the back makes this under £100 wonder look far more expensive than it is. Throw it on with cargo trousers and a pair of pumps. Add a similarly textural bag to elevate this everyday staple. - Oysho adjustable waist faux-shearling jacket, £59.99
This breathable, high-strength faux-shearling jacket is seriously heavy duty and is guaranteed to withstand temperatures from +10ºC (low activity) to -10ºC (moderate activity) - perfect for your next ski holiday.
With a longer fit and a funnel neck that comes up to your jawline, it will look gorgeous with black leggings, jeans or even over your salopettes. I'll be wearing mine while sipping Aperol spritz at après.
The styling mistakes to avoid!
When it comes to denim, avoid pairing your oversized fluffy fleece with equally oversized jeans. Voluminous barrel-legs, parachute styles and baggy boyfriend cuts will do nothing for your figure. Opt for straight or tapered leg designs instead.
And when it comes to layering these jackets under coats, avoid wearing yours with an Arsène Wenger inspired, black, knee-length puffer coat. It's only going to make you look bulky and casual, rather than chic.
If you do want to wear a down coat over the top, stick to thinly quilted iterations to avoid looking like the Michelin Man.
Unless you're walking the dog, whatever you do, don't wear yours with wellies or trainers. Elevated smart footwear will give your cosy fleece the edge it rightly deserves.
Similarly, adding chunky statement jewellery will offset the laid-back element of this Sherpa layer and will add new depth to your look.