Turtleneck Sweater Guide

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Turtleneck sweaters project a sense of calm, sleek elegance, and suave refinement, associated with kings of classic cool from the past and the present. Hollywood stars and well-dressed gents have worn them for decades, and they have become a staple piece in many wardrobes. But do you know how to style and employ this versatile garment properly?

In this guide, you will learn about the history of turtleneck sweaters, how they should fit, how you can style them, and what to look out for when you buy them. We suspect this remarkable garment has far more applications in Classic Style than you realized!

Interested in sweaters more generally?

Defining a Turtleneck and Similar Garments

Turtleneck (noun): a type of full-length sweater with a high collar made from the garment’s tubular neck that is folded over itself to create a double layer at the wearer’s neck. Traditionally, a turtleneck sweater has a slim fit to the body and is constructed so that the folded neck portion is finished in a ribbed knit in contrast to the body’s solid knit.

Raphael wears a mid grey roll neck sweater with a navy blazer
Raphael wears a mid-grey roll-neck sweater with a navy blazer.
The turtleneck sweater is aptly named as it resembles the neck of a turtle

What does this have to do with a

Turtle’s Neck?

The term “turtleneck” to describe a garment that fits tightly around the neck was first employed in North America in the 1890s. The name is derived from the visual similarity to the folds of skin that appear on the neck of an actual turtle. This type of collar is known by other names in other localities.

Sweaters Similar to the Turtleneck

Several common sweater types visually resemble the turtleneck, but certain key details reveal that they are, in fact, unique garments.

George Lazenby as James Bond wears a bold orange mock neck sweater

The Mock Neck

Like the turtleneck, a mock neck is a full-length sweater with a high tubular neck. However, the neck on a mock neck is about half the length of a turtleneck’s. As a result, a mock neck is not designed to be folded over like a turtleneck.

A tall V neck look is achieved with this cable knit zip neck sweater

The Zip Neck

A zip neck is a zippered garment with a neck of a similar height to that of a mock neck, but, obviously, with a zip at the throat. This detail means that a zip neck is not considered part of the turtleneck family, despite its visual similarity once zipped up.

Other Names for Turtlenecks and Similar Garments

While commonly employed in North America, the term “turtleneck” is not globally recognized. Instead, other words are employed for this and similar garments.

1
Clark Gable wears a polo neck sweater while riding horseback

Polo Neck

A polo neck is the English name for a sweater with a high, tubular neck. Therefore, either a turtleneck or a mock neck could be considered a polo neck in this definition.

2
A deep blue cable knit roll neck from Pini Parma

Roll Neck

A roll neck is another term for a turtleneck, which describes the style of the folded over neck portion of the sweater quite literally.

3
An Australian Skivvy in navy cotton

Skivvy

“Skivvy” is one other name for a turtleneck typically used in Australia and New Zealand. The skivvy may have a slightly looser neck, and be made from lighter weight fibers such as cotton.

Turtleneck History

Proto-Turtleneck Garments

Illustration of a man in an arming doublet
In this 1562 portrait, a man wears a high-necked arming doublet with a ruffed collar under a gorget. [Image Credit: The Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology]

In some respects, the origins of the turtleneck in the Western Hemisphere can be traced back to the 15th century. As armor became more expansive during the Middle Ages, plate and chainmail on the neck could be highly uncomfortable for knights and soldiers as it pressed against the soft flesh of their necks. Garments worn under the armor for comfort were, therefore, cut longer in the neck to take off some of this pressure.

In illustrations showing knights with their helmets removed, you can often glimpse this garment peeking out at the neck and throat under armor types like a gorget. Nobles and royals, to emphasize their connection to chivalric valor, began to adopt similar garments that sat on and around the throat.

A bearded knight wearing a ruff collar with his armour

An Aristocratic Look

Whilst not technically a true turtleneck by today’s standards, having a garment that covered your neck and framed your face, such as the ruff collar, was highly desirable to demonstrate wealth and fame.

The Modern Turtleneck Develops

In the late 18th century, as improving industrial methods made knit garments more accessible, a sweater resembling the modern turtleneck took shape, featuring an elongated neck that could be folded around the neck both as a style choice and to keep the wearer warm. This unique garment was popular with all classes.

However, things changed dramatically in the 19th century when high-necked garments were replaced with much taller shirt collars and elaborate neckwear. Around the 1840s, this style was worn most famously by the dandy, often touted as “the father of modern style,” Beau Brummell. With this shift in attitude toward formal dress with tailored, not knitted garments, the turtleneck returned to its utilitarian roots.

At this point, the turtleneck was primarily a garment for the working class. In particular, sailors were extremely fond of turtleneck sweaters due to the simplicity of the garment, the ease of maintaining it, and the warmth they provided when out in cold and wet conditions.

The Submariner sweater is a mainstay in the realm of turtlenecks

The Submariner Sweater

Because of its prevalence among workers at sea, turtleneck sweaters can also be seen as part of the uniform for naval officers. Due to this military connection, heavyweight ivory or off-white turtlenecks may also be referred to as a “Submariner” Sweater.

The Turtleneck in the Early 20th Century

The turtleneck maintained its connection with casual wear until the playwright Noel Coward wore it in the 1920s, at which point it became increasingly associated with celebrities.

A photograph of Noel Coward

“[I wore turtlenecks] more for comfort than effect”

Noel Coward

It was subsequently adopted by the preppy style movement that was also happening at this time because people wanted something that was more casual. Men found that a turtleneck could be worn instead of a shirt and a tie, but due to the high neck on the garment, their face was still framed in an attractive style.

The Turtleneck in the 60s and 70s

Since their popularization in the early 20th century, turtlenecks have been going in and out of fashion. They had flashes of popularity in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. In particular, the youth of the 60s and 70s enjoyed wearing turtlenecks as part of the counterculture movement. They wanted to pair bold colors with extravagant suits, and a slim turtleneck allowed them to do this.

The Turtleneck in the 80s

The 80s were pretty extravagant in their own ways regarding menswear, as is reflected in the businesswear shown in 1987’s Wall Street. While there was a lot of casualization happening in the 80s, the decade also took a lot of inspiration from the 1930s in terms of classic menswear. This means that turtleneck sweaters were popular for men’s casual wear during this time, although they were mostly oversized turtlenecks in line with the trends of the decade.

A 1902 illustration of a University of Illinois football player wearing a turtleneck

Timeless Style

What’s interesting is that the overall design of the turtleneck has hardly changed throughout history, mainly due to the fact that it does its job of keeping the wearer warm and protected as well as being uniquely stylish.

The Decline of the Turtleneck in the 90s and Early 2000s

Starting in the 1990s, the turtleneck has suffered something of a fall from grace; in 2015, the New York Times even opined, “Can Turtlenecks Ever Be Cool Again?”

This fall from grace can be attributed to evolving fashion trends, the turtleneck’s association with past eras, perceived lack of versatility, comfort concerns, and shifts in public perception influenced by celebrities.

However, despite these factors, turtlenecks still hold a place in many wardrobes for their classic look and the sophisticated silhouette they provide. Their current status in men’s fashion is not a definitive judgment of their ‘coolness’ but a reflection of changing tastes and trends. Ultimately, the appeal of turtlenecks, like all fashion choices, depends on personal style and preference.

The Turtleneck Today

Photo of a man wearing a turtleneck on the street
When worn correctly, the turtleneck remains an effortlessly cool and elegant garment.

Within Classic Style, however, turtlenecks have remained a fixture, favored by figures as diverse as Gianni Agnelli and Kelsey Grammer on Frasier. As we will illustrate, not only have turtlenecks been favored by countless Gentlemen of Style, but they also certainly have a place in your wardrobe.

In recent years, there has been a surge in popularity for not only the turtleneck but for the mock neck as well as zip necks. It’s possible to see many elegant men incorporating this type of high-neck knitwear into their closets for both smart and casual combinations.

Famous Faces in Turtleneck Sweaters

Throughout the years, many celebrities have taken to the turtleneck as an element of their style, whether as a personal style statement or as part of a fictional character’s garb.

Celebrities

Clark Gable cuts a dash by wearing a suede jacket and thin turtleneck

Clark Gable

One of Hollywood’s most enduring legends of the silver screen, Clark Gable was a well-documented fan of the turtleneck. Throughout his life, he could be spotted in high-neck knitwear, bringing his own personal touch to the garment. A particularly unique look was when he wore a thin turtleneck under a suede jacket. Instead of neatly folding the neck back on itself, Gable allowed the formation of soft ripples, adding a touch of sprezzatura to his look.

Steve McQueen wearing iconic menswear pieces including a turtleneck

Steve McQueen

Undoubtedly living up to his moniker of “the King of Cool,” Steve McQueen famously enjoyed adopting casual clothing into his looks. The turtleneck made an iconic appearance in the 1968 film; ‘Bullitt.’ Pairing a dark turtleneck with soft tailoring elements, McQueen’s no-nonsense cop commanded an air of authority without ever needing a tie.

Roger Moore as James Bond in a black turtleneck

Roger Moore

While almost every iteration of James Bond has worn turtleneck sweaters, the look is most associated with the most prolific Bond, Roger Moore, both because of the era in which the films were made and Moore’s persoal affinity for the garment. Moore’s most iconic turtleneck appears in Live and Let Die. In the film, he sports a look similar to McQueen’s Bullitt, consisting of dark trousers and a turtleneck with a gun holster for that edge of danger we’ve come to expect from super spies. This look was replicated by Daniel Graig in the poster for 2015’s Spectre.

The Beatles

The Beatles are some of the most famous people to wear turtleneck sweaters
The Beatles are some of the most famous people to wear turtleneck sweaters. (Image credit: Pinterest)

Perhaps contributing to the turtleneck’s surge in popularity in the 1960s, The Beatles were often seen wearing turtlenecks as part of their performance and private wardrobes. By pairing matching turtleneck sweaters, two-piece suits, and Cuban-heeled Chelsea boots, the band created an unforgettable outfit for their earlier band years.

Steve Jobs made the black turtleneck iconic

Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs is perhaps one of the most well-known turtleneck aficionados in the 21st Century. What’s particularly interesting about Jobs is the fact that he chose to pair either a black mock neck or turtleneck sweater with a pair of blue jeans and sneakers. This was a conscious choice that came about as Jobs wanted an easy-to-wear uniform that meant he didn’t have to put much thought into the act of getting dressed. Regardless of whether you like the outfit, there’s no denying the black turtleneck reached a similar level of fame as Jobs himself.

See how celebrity fashions have changed over the years!

Characters

Jim Carrey sports a grey turtleneck in The Truman Show

Truman Burbank

Attempting to escape his televised life, Jim Carrey’s Truman Burbank in The Truman Show dons a chunky cable knit turtleneck as part of his ensemble. The charcoal sweater fits nicely with the rest of his traditionally inspired seaman’s outfit, so it’s easy to see that this particular turtleneck was inspired by the thicker submariner sweaters worn at sea.

The fictional Ron Burgundy can often be seen in outfits including turtleneck sweaters

Ron Burgundy

Known for his deep commitment to a part, comedian Will Ferrell portrays the often controversial news anchor Ron Burgundy. Meant to be a satirical take on the news reports of the 1970s that Ferrell would have grown up watching, turtleneck sweaters play a big part in the character’s wardrobe. While we may not be fans of the loud 1970s styles that Ron Burgundy enjoys, we can certainly appreciate his love of the turtleneck.

Howard Wolowitz is often mistaken for wearing a turtleneck sweater

Howard Wolowitz

An unfortunate moment in fashion history, the Dickey is only the neck, shoulders, and upper chest portion of a turtleneck sweater. It came about as people wanted to layer clothing without overheating, and the Dickey allowed them to achieve this. Portrayed by Simon Helberg, The Big Bang Theory’s Howard Wolowitz is almost always dressed in a style mimicking the 1960’s layered look with a Dickey at the center of his ensemble.

Turtleneck Sweater FAQs

What is the origin of the turtleneck sweater?

A: The turtleneck sweater dates back to the 15th century. It became a staple for sailors and naval officers due to its warmth and protection from the elements. In the 20th century, it gained popularity as a part of the “no-collar” look among intellectuals, academics, and artists.

How should a turtleneck sweater fit?

A: A turtleneck sweater should fit snugly around the neck without being too tight or restrictive. The body of the sweater should follow your natural body shape without being overly loose. The sleeves should end at the wrist, and the hem should sit at the waistband or just below.

What are the best materials for turtleneck sweaters?

A: Turtlenecks are commonly made from wool, cashmere, cotton, or synthetic blends. Wool offers warmth and durability, cashmere provides luxury and softness, cotton ensures breathability and comfort, while synthetics can add stretch and resistance to wrinkles.

Q: How do you style a turtleneck sweater for casual wear?

A: For a casual look, pair a chunkier knit turtleneck with jeans or chinos. Layer it under a denim jacket or leather bomber for added texture and interest.

Q: How do you take care of turtleneck sweaters?

A: Care instructions vary depending on the material. Generally, it’s best to hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle with cold water and lay flat to dry. Always check the label for specific guidelines.

Q: Can all body types wear turtleneck sweaters?

A: Yes, anyone can wear a turtleneck sweater. It’s about finding the right fit and style that complements your body type and personal aesthetics.

Q: When is the best time to wear a turtleneck sweater?

A: Turtleneck sweaters are ideal for fall and winter when you need extra warmth. Lighter materials like cotton can also be worn during cooler evenings in spring or summer.

Are turtlenecks attractive?

A turtleneck can be an extremely attractive garment, as it’s designed to sit under your shin and frame your face well. Like with any clothing, how attractive a turtleneck looks all comes down to how you style it.

Is a turtleneck formal?

Typically speaking, a turtleneck is not considered a formal garment, but it can look dressy depending on what you pair it with. For example, a turtleneck paired with a sport coat or blazer will lend a relaxed elegance to your look.

Can I wear a turtleneck for business casual?

Turtleneck sweaters may very well be an acceptable item of clothing for a business casual look, but it all depends on the formality level in your office. If your colleagues wear a shirt and tie more often than not, then skip the turtleneck. If, however, you work in an office where more casual clothing is acceptable, then a classic turtleneck can be a fine addition to your workday attire.

Who is famous for wearing turtlenecks?

Many notable figures have worn turtlenecks throughout history, although they have become increasingly popular since the 1920s. You can find all sorts of famous faces in turtlenecks including Noel Coward, Clark Gable, and Ernest Hemmingway. Fictional characters that enjoy wearing turtlenecks include Truman Burbank, James Bond, and Ron Burgundy.

What is a Dickey?

Effectively just the neck and shoulder portion of a turtleneck, the Dickey (or “Dickie”) is somewhat of a fad that was popular in the 1960s and 70s. It calls for a multi-layered look without having the bulk or excess warmth of an actual turtleneck sweater under your clothes. The look is very dated, which is played on in the clothes worn by the character Howard Wolowitz from the television show ‘The Big Bang Theory’.

Can I wear a turtleneck as part of the black tie dress code?

Although black tie rules seem to be relaxing, a turtleneck isn’t appropriate for traditional black tie ensembles. This is because black tie requires that you wear a bow tie, which a turtleneck doesn’t allow for. It may be possible to wear a finely knitted dark turtleneck in either the “black tie optional” or “creative black tie” dress codes, where it looks best with a separate dinner jacket and pants.

Should I tuck in a turtleneck?

Whether you tuck a turtleneck sweater into your pants is subject to a few considerations: how fine the knit is, how formal your outfit is, and your own preferences. If you have a thin, lightweight turtleneck, it will likely benefit from being tucked in to create a neat look. If you want to appear in a more casual light, then a chunkier turtleneck can be left untucked for a relaxed edge.

How to Wear a Turtleneck Sweater

How A Turtleneck Sweater Should Fit

Turtleneck Weight

Like most knitted sweaters, turtlenecks come in a range of different weights. Some are extremely thin, which makes a great relaxed yet elegant substitute for a regular dress shirt under a jacket. Whether you choose to wear an undershirt with this type of turtleneck is up to you, but bear in mind that although slim and very thin turtlenecks can be great to layer, wearing them on their own will really show every imperfection of your body.

Raphael checks the length of his turtleneck sweater

Getting The Right Length

If you go for a thinner turtleneck as a substitute for a dress shirt, then you’ll want to ensure that it has a good length. It will need to reach past your waist so that you’re able to tuck the sweater into your trouser waistband, as the thinner style of turtleneck looks inelegant if it’s left to bunch up around your middle.

On the other end of the scale, you’ll find much thicker turtleneck sweaters meant to keep you warm enough against the elements, and you typically wouldn’t be able to wear them under a regular suit or sports jacket. 

Raphael checks that he is happy with the fit of his turtleneck sweater
Raphael checks that he is happy with the fit of his turtleneck sweater

A good turtleneck sweater should be neither too big nor too small in its fit. So you’ll want to look for a close fit through the body and arms of your turtleneck without it constricting your ability to move freely. 

Turning the cuff back on your knitwear can be very elegant indeed

Off The Cuff

Like the majority of other long-sleeved knitwear, a turtleneck’s cuffs will likely feature a ribbed construction. Sometimes, the cuffs can be worn turned back, so you are able to get a better sleeve length. However, this is a matter of personal preference and not an essential part of wearing a turtleneck.

If you’re wearing a traditional, folded turtleneck, then pay close attention to how the neck fits you; too tight, and it’ll be uncomfortable throughout the day; too loose, and you’ll lose the flattering effect that a turtleneck has. The loose look was favorable in the 1980s, but this was part of the oversized fad of the time.

Photo of a turtleneck worn with a scarf
When it is cold outside, a turtleneck, paired with other accessories like a scarf and hat, is an ideal way to stay warm.

See our Fabric archives for more information!

How To Style A Turtleneck Sweater

Photo of a colorful ensemble based around a turtleneck
Turtleneck sweaters can be styled as a central feature or a supporting detail in your ensembles.

Turtleneck sweaters are quite unique in the world of menswear, as they can be dressed up or down more easily than other items. Here are some of our favorite suggestions for wearing a turtleneck sweater with style:

Turtleneck Sweaters with Suits

Turtlenecks are a great way to dress down suits. Here, you can see how wearing a gray turtleneck with a navy suit creates a very different look than when the same suit is worn with a white shirt and a tie.

Pinstripe suits and jackets should not be worn with turtleneck sweaters
According to the conventions of Classic Style, pinstripe suits and jackets should not be worn with turtleneck sweaters because the pinstripe is more formal and the turtleneck more casual. This nicety is rarely observed, however, as part of Contemporary Style.

A turtleneck makes everything look a lot softer, yet you’re still well-dressed. However, some combinations should be avoided if you wish to cleave to the conventions of Classic Style. For example, don’t combine a turtleneck with striped suits and jackets because it will come across as quite over the top due to the striped suit’s higher level of formality, and it can clash.

A particularly debonair way to wear a turtleneck is with a double-breasted jacket. This has a particularly interesting effect, where not only does the turtleneck become a little dressier, but the jacket will also seem more relaxed.

Wearing a turtleneck with a black tie ensemble can be quite daring

Can you wear a turtleneck with

Evening Wear?

As part of Contemporary Style, turtleneck sweaters are sometimes worn with a tuxedo or dinner jacket. You need a lot of confidence to pull off this look because black tie is a dress code with a more rigid level of formality. Suffice it to say, this look is not typical of Classic Style, and if you wish to attempt it, we suggest that you reserve this choice for creative black tie or black tie optional dress code.

Wearing Turtleneck Sweaters Casually

If you’re looking to dress down an outfit with a turtleneck sweater, you can use a thinner knit under a layering piece such as a denim shirt or perhaps even an overshirt. Naturally, this type of outfit can be finished with a pair of jeans and boots. It’s equally possible to elevate a casual turtleneck sweater with a pair of corduroy or flannel trousers and a pea coat.

Choosing the Right Color for Your Turtleneck

One of the biggest challenges for turtlenecks is to combine them with your other garments so they look very well put together. In terms of color, if you follow the concept of contrast and harmony, you always look well-dressed.

In terms of colors, both gray and tan are fantastic choices, and those would be the first to invest your money in because, generally, they work well with other classic menswear colors. Other options to look into would be things such as burgundy or dark green.

Make sure you steer clear from navy and black for your turtlenecks

Beware of the Dark Side

Because black and navy turtleneck sweaters are so similar to most suit and jacket colors, you need to be careful when styling them to ensure that your ensemble doesn’t appear muddy as the elements bleed into each other. Unless you want a monochromatic look, contrast is your friend in these situations.

A turtleneck can be thought of as a replacement for a white dress shirt. However, rather than going with a stark white, go with ivory or off-white because these are softer and blend in better with brown tones. You’ll still create contrast but in a way that is warmer and looks better put-together than a plain solid white.

Photo of a high contrast turtleneck ensemble
Color and pattern contrast help even a dark turtleneck sweater pop!

Use the color wheel to craft your outfits!

Be careful with thin white turtlenecks sweaters that can appear translucent

Seeing Right Through You

Ivory and off-white are great classic color choices for turtlenecks. However, you need to be mindful that the material is thick enough to ensure that you don’t see any undershirt outlines, hair, or skin underneath.

Photo of a turtleneck worn with a POW overcoat
Patterns give even the simplest of turtlenecks remarkable styling potential.

How To Buy Turtlenecks?

The store is keeping Meisun busy
Turtleneck sweaters can be found in most vintage and secondhand shops, and chances are, your favorite menswear purveyors offer a line of turtleneck sweaters for sale.

First up, you’ll need to decide what sort of look you’re going for. If you want to stay on the formal end of the spectrum, then you’ll need to look for a thinner turtleneck, as the overall appearance will be smarter, pairing better with tailoring. If you want to incorporate a turtleneck into more casual ensembles, then you can look for something a little thicker, which harmonizes well with dressed-down outfits.

Turtleneck Fabrics and Materials

Cashmere comes in a variety of textures and can differ in overall quality yet retailers often just remark that the material is cashmere.

Cashmere

Often touted as the premium wool for knitted garments to be made from, cashmere is a wonderful choice for a luxuriously soft turtleneck. It can be woven to be quite thin for a smarter-looking turtleneck, but cashmere can also be found in a more robust weave, too. Like all woolen garments, pilling is to be expected with cashmere. For this reason, regular care is required for a cashmere turtleneck.

An ivory merino wool turtleneck worn under a brown check suit

Merino

Naturally fine and with a surprising elasticity, merino wool is a versatile choice for a turtleneck sweater. It is often woven to be slim and smart, possessing a unique sheen that pairs very well with tailored garments. Merino wool is also typically less expensive than cashmere, with the added benefit of being more robust than delicate cashmere fibers.

SRS in a brown turtleneck sweater

Lambswoold

A robust, hardy choice for a turtleneck sweater, lambswool is a brilliant choice for when you want to feel protected against the elements. Strong, resilient fibers go into making a lambswool turtleneck that will insulate you from the cold. Lambswool will also provide a degree of water resistance, making it the fiber of choice for sea-faring travel. The downside of lambswool is that it’s not particularly fine in terms of the knit. So, it’s perfect for casual occasions but best left at home for when you want to dress things up.

Cotton creates an interesting texture when knitted into a turtleneck

Cotton

A true clothing staple, cotton can be spun into yarn ready for use as a turtleneck. Interestingly, cotton can be presented as either a chunky or fine knit sweater, but it’s not the weight of the yarn that puts it on the casual end of the spectrum. Unlike the luster of either cashmere or merino wool, cotton can have somewhat of a flat appearance when finished as a knit. However, unlike the other materials listed here, cotton is by far the easiest to maintain, as it can be machine-washed with your regular garments.

What Should You Wear Under a Turtleneck?

Of course, personal preference will differ, but we strongly recommend wearing an undershirt under your turtleneck sweater. Having a layer between your skin and the fibers of your turtleneck will not only increase your comfort but also prolong the lifespan of your sweater, as it will require less frequent laundering.

Raphael should have picked a different color undershirt to wear beneath his turtleneck
Raphael should have picked a different color undershirt to wear beneath his turtleneck. You can see how the stark white of his V-neck shirt shows through in an unattractive manner.
Photo of turtleneck worn with collar tips out

Should you display your

Collar Tips?

In recent years, there has been a trend of wearing a soft collared shirt underneath the turtleneck with the collar tips visible at the jawline. While not typical of Classic Style, this look has gained some niche prominence as part of a Dandy aesthetic. Just be aware of how bold this look is and that the fabric rubbing against your neck all day could get uncomfortable!

Conclusion

The turtleneck sweater remains a timeless piece that deserves its celebrated spot in every man’s wardrobe. It provides an effortless blend of sophistication and comfort while offering enough versatility to suit both casual and formal settings. Whether layering it under a blazer for a sharp look or pairing it with your favorite jeans for a relaxed weekend, the turtleneck is an undeniable staple that transcends seasons and trends. Its ability to adapt to various styles only confirms its status as a menswear essential. So embrace the elegance it brings, and let the turtleneck be a testament to your personal style statement.

How do you like to wear your turtleneck sweaters? Let us know in the comments!

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Reader Comments

  1. I think wearing turtlenecks with sport coats combined with jeans and address you with a fedora hat separates the average man from the distinct gentlemen.

  2. Lately, I have noticed, especially in photos from Milan, fashionable gentleman wearing turtlenecks with a collared dress shirt underneath, the collar and points of which are worn up, or “popped”, the whole approximating something akin to an Elizabethan or Jacobean collar, or even a formal Edwardian wing collar. You show this in your photo entitled, “Off white overcoat with plaid sports coat & red turtleneck sweater”. The gentleman shown has long hair to boot. I think the ensemble looks quite handsome, eye-catching without looking too contrived. It also allows for the turtleneck being taken off by the wearer once indoors, while still having a presentable shirt on.

    Turtlenecks are a boon for older gentlemen too, as they hide a multitude of age sins, such as a crepey neck, as witness Diane Keaton’s fondness for them for the same reason. A fabric facelift…

    1. @Quatorze: They may hide neck wrinkles – but unfortunately they do not hide my paunch (quite the opposite, really)…

    2. I’m happy that they work that way for you, but they only seem to emphases my flabby neck. I wore them a lot in my younger days, but had to give them up.

  3. I loved them when I was really young, I was incredibly skinny and had a long geeky looking neck that a turtleneck helped to “fill out” a bit. Now that I’m somewhat older and have put on a bit too much weight it’s a bit too much. Except for mocks. I just really loved the look and can’t seem to lose it completely. The mention before about the “paunch” I can relate to that. Darker colors help with that. After all that’s why Orson Wells wore black.

  4. Dear Raphael ,
    Thankyou for this most practical guide ; another good one .
    Unfortunately Turtle neck styles don’t look good on me so I need to go for long sleeve Polo types . In order though for these items to look good is do your own laundry on quality garments .
    Perhaps you can show we followers of yours a few laundry hacks.
    Wishing you a marvellous 2019

  5. This is educational and inspirational. I finally know how to choose the correct turtle neck shirt.

  6. Agree with the general observation that the turtleneck is far less forgiving to men with rounder physique or short necks. While I’m one of the luckier ones who can carry the look I still find off-white polo necks harder to pull off without looking like I just left a car wreck with a cervical injury.

  7. One of the few drawbacks I have found with turtlenecks is that they have no pockets. Since I wear them in the Fall and Winter I always pair my turtlenecks with either a sports coat or my trusty wool Pendleton Board Shirt in Blackwatch tartan. The board shirt has two pockets where I keep my pen. The flaps on the pockets keep the pen safe and out of sight.

  8. So it’s okay (if bold) to combine a turtleneck with formal wear, but never with a pin striped suit? Good heavens, such conflicting advice! I’d say (and I’m certain many would agree) the bone-coloured turtleneck paired with the pin striped jacket in your illustration looks fabulous.

    1. I agree with David. Pairing the navy pinstriped double-breasted jacket with beige plaid trousers is already a bridge too far for me, personally, but if one is brave enough to take that step, then I find the ivory turtleneck ties in very nicely with the trousers, bracketing the jacket. I greatly prefer that outfit to the charcoal turtleneck with the dinner jacket, which looks unbalanced by comparison.

    2. Due to the fact that a pinstriped suit is considered to be a formal business suit, pairing it with a turtleneck sweater can be a little jarring, even more so when the pinstripe is just one piece. This is because a pinstriped jacket or trousers typically look like an orphaned piece, rather than a conscious element of an outfit.

  9. What do you think about baby cashmere or even vicuña turtlenecks instead of regular cashmere? Is it a better fabric choice?

    Can Gentleman gazette make a video about baby cashmere and vicuña(the most expensive fabric) and whether they worth buying and where they stand in the formality scale?(for example, linen is more casual and wool is more formal, etc)

    According to this article by Luca Faloni, https://lucafaloni.com/blogs/news/all-you-need-to-know-about-cashmere-a-guide-for-the-connoisseur#:~:text=Shape%20resilience%20%2D%20Quality%20cashmere%20does,cashmere%20jumpers%20from%20their%20grandparents., “Watch out however for baby cashmere; while some brands use this product for great marketing, it is actually too fine, compromising the durability” Do gentlemen gazette agree to disagree with this statement?