15 Ways to Look Stylish in a Turtleneck

How to Wear a Turtleneck

​Somewhat inexplicably, turtlenecks have become a vital part of your wardrobe once again. Spurred by celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Selena Gomez, and Gisele Bundchen, we’re suddenly quite positive we can’t go another day without a range of turtlenecks to wear over, under, and every which way.

If you’re wondering how to pull it off, we’ve got you. We rounded up 15 different inspiring ways to wear a turtleneck sweater or t-shirt with just about anything.

Whether you want to wear a chunky sweater with a silky skirt or dress, or tuck a ribbed knit into your favorite vintage-inspired jeans, just remember it’s not as hard as you think (in fact, it will look totally breezy and casual, trust us!).

To avoid going broke investing in knits, try shops like Zara, Topshop, and Madewell to find affordable sweaters that have a trendy edge.

Wear a Turtleneck Under a Shirt

To kick things off, we suggest this Alexa Chung-inspired layering trick. On extra-cold days, try wearing a thin turtleneck (like a t-shirt) under a button-down shirt and your coat. Tuck both pieces into high-waisted jeans, zip on some funky ankle boots and voila — a complete look.

Wear a Turtleneck as Part of a Matched Set

Keep an eye out for knits that come as a pair — we love the dramatic but also super-cozy way Olivia Palermo paired a slouchy turtleneck sweater with a matching midi-length knit skirt. To keep her waist in view, she simply added a belt. Genius!

Wear a Turtleneck Under a Mini Dress

Where are all the quirky girls at? For winter nights on the town, layer a tissue thin black turtleneck under your favorite mini dress and wear both with tights and ankle boots. Easy, warm, extra-chic! This particular dress has a bold fringe detail, but you can experiment in your closet with everything from denim shift dresses to silk slips.

Wear a Turtleneck as Part of a Monochromatic Ensemble

Ah, winter whites! This look can be tricky to pull off, but when you do, it looks impossibly sophisticated. Try wearing pieces that have different textures, and don’t be afraid to substitute white for cream and beige, too. Denim and cashmere, wool, faux fur, silk, and leather will all contribute to a stylish and everyday winter whites look, (plus it’s very "First Wives Club," no?).

Wear an Oversized Turtleneck Over a Silky Slip Dress

If you want to make an oversized, slouchy turtleneck feel purposeful, wear it over a slim and sleek slip dress. The proportion play will ensure your figure doesn’t get lost under all that wool.

Layer a Turtleneck Under a Summer Dress

If you want to make a warm weather dress wearable all year long, just add a turtleneck. We like how this show-goer went for a monochromatic pairing of a white eyelet dress and cream ribbed turtleneck. Fit is key here — make sure your turtleneck doesn’t add too much bulk.

Wear Your Turtleneck as Part of a Chic Suiting Look

Suiting is a timeless look. If you want to make your favorite pants-and-jacket combination feel more “of the moment,” simply swap out your usual blouse or button-up shirt with a turtleneck. This is a great trick for making your 9-to-5 wardrobe feel fresh again in the winter months.

Pair a Chunky Turtleneck Sweater With a Mini Skirt

​With exaggerated silhouettes and extra-chunky knits, be sure to balance their heft with something super slim or a little bit cheeky. Here, the fringe details, high funnel neck and extra-long sleeves take center stage, and are kept in check by the simplicity and sex appeal of her black leather mini skirt (you could even wear this look for date night!).

Tuck Your Turtleneck Into Your Jeans and Add a Statement Coat

Yes, yes — jeans and a tucked in turtleneck is the easiest and most obvious pairing (same goes for t-shirts, of course). But to make this look pop, try seeking out a serious statement coat. Whether it’s textured with shaggy fur or a bold print. Suddenly an everyday outfit feels totally special!

Wear a Turtleneck Sweater Dress With Tights and Ankle Boots

For the younger set — show off your legs with a mini-length sweater dress. Keep it sophisticated though, by layering up with a jacket and tights. This way you're only suggesting a bit of skin, not putting it all on display in the middle of winter!

Go Sleeveless!

​A sleeveless turtleneck is great for layering now (you can wear things both over and under it!), but in the mild spring months, it makes a perfect statement all by itself. Take a cue from Jessica Alba (left) and channel a bit of 70s charm in bell bottom jeans and platform shoes.

Style Your Turtleneck Under a Statement Piece

Are you ready to advance past “Turtleneck Styling 101?” Add an extra element to a focus piece (like a graphic sweater or bold top) by throwing a turtleneck on underneath. The result on Selena Gomez (left) is a bit of a nerd-chic look, especially with her glasses and cropped flare jeans.

Dress Your Turtleneck Up for Evening

In our eyes, Gigi Hadid can do no wrong. We love the way she put a glamorous evening spin on her turtleneck sweater by adding it to a monochromatic look that includes a slit-up-to-here skirt and over-the-knee boots. This outfit is perfect for a holiday party!

Look for a Turtleneck With Unusual Details

Does it get more British-chic than Victoria Beckham? Along with rocking these bold cropped plaid trousers, her turtleneck is unexpectedly fashion-forward thanks to the exaggerated bell sleeves. When your usual cable knit isn’t doing it for you anymore, look for exciting and unusual details to give your outfit an Instagram-worthy edge.

Wear a Turtleneck Under a Classic Overcoat

And finally, something easy and timeless. This time of year it’s easy to get lazy, and let your style slip. We think the quickest way to hit refresh is to pair a turtleneck and a classic wool overcoat. You’ll simultaneously feel like a classic movie star and a street style muse. Complementary colors work best for this look — think olive green, black, charcoal grey, navy, and whites and creams together.

Long live the turtleneck!