Since early high school, I’ve had a Columbia fleece in heavy rotation nearly every fall and winter. I’ll admit it—fleece has a reputation. Some people see it as bulky, unfashionable, or too “outdoorsy.” But like most things in style, it’s all about balance. When worn right, fleece can be a practical and surprisingly stylish piece. Personally, I usually pair it with jeans and clean sneakers. That combo tones down the outdoorsy vibe and keeps the fleece as the only casual element, while the rest of the outfit feels intentional. If you avoid wild patterns or overly bright colors, a fleece jacket can simply look like a warm, textured top. Want to dress it up a little? Try wearing fleece with khakis or chinos and swapping sneakers for leather boots or casual loafers. Just make sure the shirt underneath complements the outfit—neutral colors (white, gray, navy, or earth tones) are your safest bet. Beyond style, fleece is practical. It’s lightweight, warm, and easy to layer over a T-shirt, henley, or even a button-down. Plus, it’s affordable. You can grab quality fleeces from discount stores like Ross, Marshalls, or TJ Maxx for under $30, or find brand-name options on Amazon without breaking the bank. Key tips for wearing fleece well: Stick to solid or neutral colors for versatility.

Keep the rest of your outfit clean and fitted to avoid looking sloppy.

Treat fleece as your “casual piece,” and balance it with smarter basics like jeans, chinos, or boots.

At the end of the day, fleece doesn’t have to be ugly or boring. Worn thoughtfully, it’s one of the most practical and versatile pieces you can add to your fall and winter rotation.