Transitional weather is here, and I’m already considering vacuum-packing my puffer coats and stuffing them into the back of my closet. However, as much as I want to welcome spring, I still need at least one extra layer over my tank tops. Lately, I’ve been reaching for my half-zip sweaters. Falling somewhere between a hoodie and a cardigan, the half-zip is a garment you can wear to the gym but also to the office — depending on the material.
When Chanel took over the subway in December for its Métiers d’Art pre-fall 2026 presentation, Bhavitha Mandava opened the show wearing a half-zip, and ever since I’ve wanted to re-create that look wherever I go. So I have rounded up my favorites, and I’ve also asked our team which they recommend.
So, you want to buy a half-zip?
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Our top picks
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Sizes: XS-4X | Colors: 12 | Materials: Polyester, rayon, spandex
Lined with fleece, this pullover is still pretty lightweight. It’s slightly heavier than a T-shirt and crops right at the waist, so it feels comfortable but doesn’t look too oversize. It’s a light layer, so I’ve been wearing it the most to lounge around the house.
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Sizes: XXS-XXXL | Colors: 2 | Material: Organic cotton
My go-to gym uniform usually consists of flared leggings and an oversize sweatshirt. But now this is my new favorite layer from Adanola. It’s just as easy to slide on and off, but when I’m down with my workout, it looks more put-together than your average sweatshirt.
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Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 2 | Material: Wool
Behold, the hoodie that’s a great dupe for the Chanel one. Made of soft merino wool, this sweater is a favorite of senior shopping editor Bianca Nieves. She loves how it goes well with all her outfits.
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More tried-and-true favorites
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Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 2 | Material: Merino wool
Deputy culture editor Brooke Marine wants to have at least three of these half-zips from Amundsen. The Norwegian lifestyle brand’s version is made of wool knitted into a fine lace pattern, making it a thin but warm layer you can wear on its own or under your winter gear.
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Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Cotton, polyester, spandex
Aerie has some reliably soft and comfortable half-zip options that stay soft and never pill, no matter how much you wash them.
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Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Material: Wool
Consider a chunkier knit option from our go-to brand, Everlane. It’s a solid everyday sweater that reviewers love because of how soft, oversize, and slouchy it is.
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Sizes: XXS-2XL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Cotton, polyester
Alo’s half-zip is loose enough to be comfortable but not look like you’re drowning in it. I throw mine on to run errands.
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Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane
This option from the Gap has a hood, so it’s the best of both worlds.
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Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 6 | Material: Cotton
Boden’s cotton knit comes in several color options, from stripes to a simple but stylish color-blocked number. It’s the one you wouldn’t want to wear to the gym.
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Sizes: 35-50 | Colors: 1 | Material: Cashmere
Sure, it’s a splurge, but I love the shape of Miu Miu’s cashmere half-zip. It cinches just at the waist and has enough volume on top for a layer underneath.
