The Best Fleece Vests Won't Make You Look Like a Banker Bro

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If you've ever worn a zip-up vest over your every day clothes, I'm certain that you've never gone back to a vest-less lifestyle. And if that vest was fleece, well, you kind of already hit the jackpot. A fleece vest is the key to non-bulky winter layering: It gets you through the cold temperatures, and you don't even have to sacrifice a sleek silhouette or cool outfit to do it.

Unlike it's neighbor, the puffer vest, the fleece vest is a perfect transitional piece. You can keep it on all day indoors, and you can wear it under a coat or jacket when you're outside. You can dress it up with a button-down and chinos, or keep it casual with, say, a thermal long-sleeve T-shirt and some jeans. It's a spiffy piece, one that elevates your look, and a functional one, too. What's not to love?

Okay, I know what's not to love, and let me rid you of that fear once and for all. Yes, vests are a known essential for banker bros and finance cronies alike. Nobody knows why. But for some reason, vests are a hallmark staple of those guys (if you're a banker and you're reading this, you've come to the right place, but also, sorry). But! Those guys are really onto something...I mean, a fleece vest does look pretty damn business casual, effortlessly elevated, and put-together. So maybe we should all be wearing them?

These days, there are tons of fleece vests on the market. They're all super-soft, warm, and easy to style and layer. Canada Goose, Todd Snyder, and The North Face have chic styles built for the outdoors, no matter the temperature. Lululemon and Polo Ralph Lauren offer chic styles that imbue your winter fit with some fresh flair. And J.Crew and Rhone have fleece vests that you'll put in your daily rotation this season, 'cause they're just so damn cool. The options are all out there, and right here, 16 of the very best ones.

Canyonlands Vest

When it comes to cold-weather apparel, TNF is virtually unmatched. Take this fleece vest, for instance: it's got a full front zip, three zip pockets, a high collar for warmth, and a comfy, sleek fleece fabric tying it all together.

Full-Zip Polar Fleece Vest

You don't have to spend a lot to get a fleece vest you'll wear all season long. Amazon Essentials has a basic, affordable pick for under 20 bucks.

Recycled Fleece Sweater Vest

In addition to an adjustable waist, three pockets, and a full front zip, this vest is made from recycled fabrics, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you're doing good while looking good.

Polar Fleece Vest

Wear it open, wear it zipped. Wear it over a long-sleeve tee or a sweater or a button-down; it's ready for anything.

Steens Mountain Vest

With a collared neck and thick, cozy fleece, this top-layer is made for chilly days and windy nights.

Radiator Sweater Fleece Vest 2.0

Eddie Bauer's fleece vest is all about keeping things cool and cozy. With super-fine fleece and a flexibility that moves with you, this is one of the softest choices on the market.

Fleece + Ripstop Running Vest

From Lululemon Lab comes a standout option, with warm fleece on the front and performance ripstop on the back. That means it's warn AF, but if you start to break a sweat, you have breathable mesh to keep things breezy.

Better Sweater Fleece Vest

Your timeless, basic option that'll last you many winters to come.

Nordic Sherpa Fleece Vest

For some extra fluff and extra flair, J.Crew's two-tone sherpa vest is the move. It's classy, yet cool—not to mention, comfy as hell.

Mersey Vest Kind Fleece

With recycled and organic materials, Canada Goose's take on the fleece vest is one to keep your eye on.

Fleece Vest

A minimalist, no-nonsense option that pairs beautifully with an Oxford.

Brushed Fleece Full-Zip Vest

If you're looking for a fleece vest that elevates your look, PRL is the choice for you. With an elegant design and that iconic horse embroidered at the chest, this pick is perfect for the office.

Italian Recycled Fleece Vest

Made from lightweight, quick-drying sherpa fleece, this contrast vest is so cool, you'll hate having to wear a coat or jacket over it.

Crown Sweater Fleece Vest

Recycled performance fleece makes this easy-to-style vest a great, soft, lightweight option to keep in your rotation.

Fleece Vest

Double-sided micro-fleece makes this vest cool, but the utilitarian, gorp-core silhouette makes it a real stunner.

Windsurf Fleece Vest

Like wearing your coziest blanket out and about in the world.

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