10 Ways to Wear a Turtleneck: Stay Warm and Look Cool

A turtleneck is one of those wardrobe staples that’s a true workhorse. It can be ultra fashionable, but it’s super comfy and cozy too. It’s really the best of both worlds! It’s versatile for layering and pairs with almost anything in your wardrobe. Also known as a polo or roll-neck, this look has been around for centuries. 

A black turtleneck is especially iconic, being worn by everyone from radical philosophers and artists in the 1960s to Audrey Hepburn, even Steve Jobs was a fan! Since a turtleneck is really just defined by the neckline (that signature high collar) there are tons of different types to fit any style. 

If you need some inspiration for how to wear turtleneck shirts, look no further! We’ve got 10 great ideas that are sure to help you rock this look, no matter what your taste. 

                                                  

1. Rib Turtleneck Sweater

A lightweight, soft turtleneck sweater is the perfect transition piece for in between seasons. Look for one made from natural fiber as these give you the most insulation with breathability. A rib knit will be stretchy and hug your figure without being tight or constricting. A sweater like this looks great with an a-line skirt for spring, but also layers well under a heavier jacket for fall. We love soft, speckled heather grey as a neutral color option, but this piece would also be great in a pastel shade.   

2. The Fancy Turtleneck

Legendary designers like Halston helped the elevate the turtleneck into a formal wear staple, proving that style isn’t the enemy of comfort. While the blazer turtleneck combo is definitely a bit retro with a 60s/70s vibe, the look is totally making a comeback into cutting edge fashion. Keep it fresh with bright colors, prints, or sheer fabrics.  You can also swap the blazer for a long cardigan, kimono, or belted shawl. This is a smart look for evening events, like cocktail hour or a gallery opening.

3. Slouchy Turtleneck Sweater

Oversized is always a great look for when it’s cold and you just want to bundle up! You can layer up underneath without things getting too bulky. We like a sweater that’s long enough to wear over leggings. Paired with some cozy boots and a beanie, this is a perfect no fuss look for cold days. This look would be so cute with a super fuzzy sweater or one in a jewel toned retro southwestern print. 

4. Cutout Turtleneck

Just because the neckline is high, doesn’t mean you can’t show off a little skin! A turtleneck with shoulder cutouts is a cute and trendy look, perfect for casual dates or weekend hangs with friends. You can also look for cutouts around the collar, in the front or back. There are lots of variations on this style and they’re all great when you want something a little more exciting than your standard turtleneck. 

5. Sleeveless Turtleneck Crop

This is a great basic for the spring and summer, but also works well as a layering piece for fall and winter. The sleeveless turtleneck is a simplistic chic look that can go from casual to dressy with ease. Try it with a pencil skirt or high waist trousers for a business casual look, or with a mini skirt or sparkly shorts for a night out. 

6. Turtleneck Dress

A bodycon mini dress is one of the dressiest options when you are not sure how to wear turtleneck. They’re sexy, but the high neckline balances things out so you’re not too exposed. A striped long sleeve version with a beret and boots will make you look like you’re heading to a party at Andy Warhol’s factory. A neutral colored sleeveless version will give you that highly sought after Instagram it-girl influencer style.

7. Layered Turtleneck

When you’ve gotta keep warm at all costs, layer up with a turtleneck. Find one in a technical fabric that provides maximum insulation without being too bulky. You can get these at sports and outdoor shops, or other retailers that have functional clothing. Turtlenecks are super versatile layering options as they look great under crew neck sweaters, button up shirts, blazers, cardigans, dresses, jumpsuits, etc. They’re also great because the collar keeps your neck warm without being bulky or getting in your way like a scarf might. 

8. Striped Turtleneck

This look gives off retro European sailor vibes in all the right ways. Try simple black and white stripes to go minimalist chic, or go all out with vibrant rainbow stripes. A striped turtleneck looks great with jeans for an outfit that’s casual but still playful. Striped turtlenecks have a vintage flair that will make you look like an artist strolling down the streets of a cool New York neighborhood in its heyday. 

9. Turtlenecks and One Pieces

Try a fitted turtleneck, maybe a cropped sleeveless one as mentioned above, with overalls, dresses, and bodysuits. As the weather gets colder, you can get more mileage out of your strapless/low cut/sleeveless dresses and bodysuits by throwing on a turtleneck underneath. 

10. Black Turtleneck

Last, but certainly not least, we have the iconic black turtleneck. As we mentioned before, this is a look favored by the famous elite. Apple founder Steve Jobs wore one daily to simplify his life and give him more time to make important decisions. Timeless style heroine Audrey Hepburn made the all black turtleneck look iconic in the film Funny Face. In the 1960s, artists, philosophers, and other radicals like Michel Foucault made the black turtleneck a uniform. By adopting this look yourself, you can be certain you’re in good company. It’s the ultimate in utilitarian cool. 

No matter how you choose to wear it, a turtleneck is a great wardrobe staple that is sure to provide you with years of versatile use. If you are looking to get some for your boutique, there is a variety of styles wholesale clothing that pair perfectly with turtlenecks, and will make your clients happy this winter.