[Korean News] From Daily to Office Wear: Why the ‘Quarter Zip-up’ is Dominating 2026 Fashion

Samsung C&T Fashion Group has officially identified the “Quarter Zip-up” as the leading fashion trend for 2026.

This style, characterized by a zipper extending approximately one-fourth of the way down a knit or sweatshirt, has seen a dramatic rise in consumer interest.

According to data from the Samsung Fashion Research Institute and Naver Data Lab, search volumes for zip-up products began a sharp upward trajectory in late 2025, solidifying its position as a key fashion focal point.

The trend’s explosive growth is most evident on the online platform SSF Shop, where searches for “Quarter Zip-up” skyrocketed by 2,950% year-on-year this past December.

This movement is mirrored globally, with the style gaining significant traction through international luxury brand collections and celebrity short-form content. The item’s primary appeal lies in its exceptional versatility, as it transitions seamlessly from casual daily wear to professional office attire, meeting the needs of modern consumers looking for both comfort and style.

In response to this demand, Samsung C&T is positioning zip-up items as the center of its 2026 collections across major brands, including 8seconds, Beanpole, and GLXY. A company representative noted that the sustained interest in both domestic and international markets confirms the Quarter Zip-up’s status as a must-have item for differentiated styling.

As the year progresses, this trend is expected to remain a dominant force in the global fashion landscape.