It’s a funny thing about the men’s turtleneck.
Most male garments which were born from the world of the working class, the military, and/or sports, and then became the clothing choice of rebels in the mid-20th century, still retain a bit of their aura of ruggedness and edge today, even though they can be more than a century removed from their origins and have become thoroughly mainstream. Witness the fact that jeans, leather jackets, and t-shirts, which were first worn by miners, aviators, and GIs before becoming the duds of rebel-without-a-cause types during the 1950’s, still evince a little coolness even now.
Yet the turtleneck, which has the same sort of manly history, typically does not.
Turtlenecks as we know them today were worn by working class men starting in the latter half of the 19th century. They were particularly popular amongst dockworkers, fishermen, and sailors, for the garment’s signature high-reaching, folded-over collar served a valuable functional purpose in insulating the neck from cold winds and keeping the men warm as they labored. Turtlenecks were worn by athletes of the time — whether they played baseball, football, polo, or hockey — for the very same reason.
The garment really came into style in the 1950’s, for the most countercultural of reasons. They were adopted as a stylish alternative to wearing a dress shirt and tie, and thus worn by those most inclined to chafe at anything either literally or metaphorically buttoned-up: artists, musicians, poets, philosophers, intellectuals. Beatniks.
The turtleneck’s popularity and association with culture’s edgier, more renegade-esque types continued into the 1960’s, being adopted by members of the Black Panthers, and becoming the notable sartorial choice of cinematic detectives from Steve McQueen’s Frank Bullitt to Richard Roundtree’s John Shaft.
Yet despite this iconoclastic history, today the turtleneck is often thought of as kind of dweeby — a little twee, stodgy, effete. Why is that?
Well, one can only surmise the exact cultural currents that moved the turtleneck from rugged to hip to nerdy, but it likely can be traced back to its prevalence on college campuses and amongst the beatnik scene. Once-rebellious intellectuals became aging professorial yuppies. Their personal lifestyles moved closer to the mainstream of culture, while the mainstream of culture moved closer to what was formerly considered rebellious (eschewing dress shirts and ties isn’t so edgy anymore). Thus turtlenecks maintained a kind of nerdy reputation befitting its ties to academia, while academia lost some of its cool cache.
A hypothesis at least.
At any rate, the popularity and connotations of the male turtleneck have waxed and waned over the last half century, and today reached a status that seems to be approaching something like neutrality.
In an effort to further tip the dial of the turtleneck into neutral territory, and turn an underutilized part of the male wardrobe into something more guys can reach for without hesitation, below we share how to pick a turtleneck and wear it with style.
Picking a Turtleneck
The turtleneck can be a handsome, functional, and versatile garment. Donning one can dress up a pair of jeans, or dress down a suit. Soft and stretchy, turtlenecks are more comfortable than dress shirts, and yet still make you look put-together. They can read a little formal, but with a style that isn’t buttoned-up. As such, they’re a good look for the man who wants to come off as suave but unstuffy.
Thinner/fitted turtlenecks (top) vs. thicker/looser turtlenecks (bottom).
The two types of turtlenecks. Turtleneck types can roughly be broken down into two main categories:
- Thinner/fitted. A thinner style turtleneck looks a little more formal and can be layered under suit and sport jackets. Generally more stylish overall.
- Chunky/looser. Typically too thick to be layered under jackets, the chunky turtleneck is a stand-alone piece. They evince a more casual look and are appropriate for pairing with jeans.
Broken down by body type. If/how you should wear the two above types of turtlenecks depends on your body type:
- If you have a fit-to-average physique: Wear a thin/fitted turtleneck alone, or layer under a jacket. A chunkier turtleneck worn by itself will also look fine.
- If you’re overweight: Avoid wearing thin/fitted turtlenecks by themselves, as the clingy material will highlight every bulge and imperfection of your torso/paunch. You can still wear a fitted turtleneck, but layer it under a jacket. You should likewise avoid wearing a chunky turtleneck by itself; while it won’t be quite as unforgiving as a thin/fitted one, it will just make your girth seem girth-ier and your body appear more rotund. Do also keep in mind that if you carry a fair amount of weight in your face, you may wish to avoid all turtlenecks, as the collar draws attention upwards and will frame and highlight a double-chin.
- If you’re skinny: Wearing a thin/fitted turtleneck alone will make you appear skinnier, so layer it with a jacket to fill out your figure. The texture and thickness of a chunky turtleneck will be a plus for you, as it will add some heft to your physique.
Examples of how a thick sweater on a bigger man, and a thin sweater on a skinnier man, can prove unflattering, making the big man look bigger and the skinnier man look skinnier. Both body types benefit from layering the turtleneck under a jacket.
Wearing & washing. Because of the fitted nature of thinner, slimmer turtlenecks, it is not recommended that you wear an undershirt underneath them, as the outline of the undershirt will show through. Since you will be wearing the turtleneck close to your body, and it will absorb your bodily sweat/grime, it will need to be laundered more often, so look for ones that are machine washable. One made with merino wool will be warm, comfortable, and relatively easy to care for. You can of course wash more delicately made turtlenecks by hand, but that’s naturally a bit of a pain.
If you’re wearing a white thin/fitted turtleneck without an undershirt, check to see if your skin/nipples show through; if they do, layer a jacket over it.
4 Ways to Wear a Turtleneck
Turtleneck as classic style icon.
Below you’ll find 4 ways to wear a turtleneck with style. There are of course many more, but these are some pretty easy-to-pull-off, can’t-miss looks to try.
Look #1: Navy Turtleneck + Gray Suit
A turtleneck makes a great substitute for a dress shirt under a suit, making for a look that’s less buttoned-up and business-y, while still formal and put-together. The collar of a turtleneck works just as the collar of a dress shirt does in filling in the space between the jacket’s lapels and framing the face, so that it avoids the incongruous contrast one gets from wearing a t-shirt under a suit jacket. A navy turtleneck with a gray suit is a perfect pairing. A black turtleneck also works great here.
Look #2: Black Turtleneck + Gray Trousers
The black turtleneck is widely flattering, and while it’s not so iconoclastic anymore, it still maintains a little avant-garde panache. A stand-alone black turtleneck looks great with a pair of gray wool trousers; it’s a simple yet handsome look that’s ready for any nice event.
Look #3: Cream Turtleneck + Navy Sport Jacket/Blazer
Cream (as opposed to white, which can look too stark) is a great turtleneck color. A textured cream turtleneck that’s a little thicker (but can still be layered) looks especially good when worn under a navy blazer or sport coat. The look’s got a nice nautical vibe to it. With darker pants and a heavier jacket, it’s a get-up you can wear in the winter; with chinos and a lighter-weight jacket, it’s a combo you can bust out on cool spring days.
Look #4: Black Turtleneck + Denim Jacket
To exorcise any remaining vestiges of fuddy-duddy-ness from the turtleneck, pair a black one with a denim jacket. It’s a look that reveals the rugged coolness that’s been part of the turtleneck’s DNA all along.
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FAQs
This is where turtlenecks actually serve a purpose to your face shape, it will create the illusion of a shorter face, this is why classic turtlenecks are recommended for diamond and oval face shapes, funnel ones also look really good though.
What should you not wear with a turtleneck? ›
The other soft “don't” with wearing a turtleneck is not pairing a truly dressy turtleneck with super casual pants or vice versa. That cotton turtleneck with the cute pattern that you love may look great with yoga pants or even sweats, but don't pair it with your best skirt or dress pants.
Is it okay to tuck turtle neck in? ›
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.
Why don't I look good in turtlenecks? ›
Avoid Turtlenecks
If you have a double chin, a turtleneck will only push extra skin forward, making you look even more jowly. If you want to wear a turtleneck, try a mock neck or, a cowl neck instead, which are softer and sit lower down the neck.
Do turtlenecks make you look skinny? ›
If you're skinny: Wearing a thin/fitted turtleneck alone will make you appear skinnier, so layer it with a jacket to fill out your figure.
Do guys find turtlenecks attractive? ›
Turtlenecks are sexy and sweats are a 'turn on': How men find 'frumpy' items surprisingly attractive. Forget your tight red dresses, plunging necklines and thigh-grazing hemlines - according to a new list by.
Are turtlenecks unprofessional? ›
Shirt – Acceptable attire includes a shirt with collar; a sweater or vest over a shirt with a collar; a dress shirt without a collar; a turtleneck; a sweater over a shirt without a collar. A tie is not necessary for business casual.
Do turtlenecks make you look older? ›
Over Covering the Neck Area
Loosened skin is a natural occurrence with age, which is probably the main reason why older women opt for the turtlenecks. However, this fashion choice can draw additional attention to the area, especially if it is too tight or in the dark, contrasting color to one's faded or pale skin.
Are turtlenecks classy? ›
Yes, turtlenecks happen to be pretty classic in terms of their ability to traverse fashion decades and still be a staple.
Are turtlenecks still in style 2022? ›
Stocking up on cozy sweaters is one of our favorite winter hobbies, and classic turtlenecks are inarguably the queen of the closet in 2022.
Wear a well-fitting bra underneath, as your bra is much more visible under a tight-fitting turtleneck than with a classic jumper. Light colours and small patterns can make you look bigger, so are best avoided.
What is turtle neck syndrome? ›
Tech neck syndrome, also known as text neck or turtle neck syndrome, is neck pain caused by repetitive or overuse stress from improper posture. This happens when people are constantly hunching over to read, write, text or look closer to a computer or tablet screen.
What does a turtle neck say about you? ›
Turtlenecks have been symbols of strength, rebellion, style, and modesty throughout history. First worn consistently in the 19th century, turtlenecks were pieces mostly for the working class due to their practicality. The Navy, fishermen, and other laborers wore this garment for warmth and protection.
Do turtlenecks emphasize double chin? ›
Emphasize Your Neckline
Contrary to what you might think, a turtleneck only emphasizes a double chin. Also, avoid chokers, which will make your neck look wider, and accessorize with long necklaces.
Do turtlenecks look good on short girls? ›
Highlight Your Décolletage. The more you expose your upper torso—meaning neck, shoulders and upper chest—the longer your frame will look. This is why turtlenecks aren't ideal for petites, but V-necks, off-the-shoulder, boat necks, scoop necks and even non-bulky cowl necks can work!
Do turtlenecks look good on tall people? ›
Turtlenecks, by concealing the neck, make tall men appear shorter. Because you're tall, you can accommodate many patterns and colors shorter guys can't. Patterns, when compared to solid clothing, break the visual line, thus decreasing height.
Why are turtle necks so attractive? ›
“Turtlenecks are the most comfortable garment you can wear. They move with the body, and they're flattering too, because they accentuate the face and elongate the figure,” Halston once said. “They make life so easy: you can wear a turtleneck to work and then afterwards throw on a jacket, and it becomes very dressy.
Do turtlenecks make your chest look bigger? ›
When you wear a turtleneck on its own, the uninterrupted silhouette can emphasize a larger chest. But when you wear one underneath a hoodie, blazer or even a deep V-neck top, you're splitting up the visual and giving the eye more places to look. Basically, it's super flattering.
Do turtlenecks look good in pictures? ›
A collared shirt with a V-neck or a few buttons undone is most popular. Turtlenecks completely hide the neck, which is very unflattering, and should be avoided.
Is it OK to wear a turtleneck to an interview? ›
Keep your neckline somewhat modest with a collared, boat neck, square neck, or turtleneck. I mean how comfy and professional does this look. Simple, professional, not too casual, not too stuck up. Fine-gauge knits work best.
Dangling neckwear may come in contact with chemicals, biologicals, or open flames. These also are a hazard around rotating equipment.
Is a turtleneck considered smart casual? ›
AND WHAT ABOUT POLO OR TURTLE NECKS AS SMART CASUAL? Polo, roll or turtlenecks – call them what you will, they're all equally at ease in the realm of smart casual. If you're planning on wearing them under a blazer, look to plain and monochrome designs, and allow the blazer's tailoring do the talking.
At what age does your neck start to look old? ›
In our mid-to-late 20s (and certainly by our 30s), most of us begin to notice some looseness of the neck skin, particularly close to the jawline, a deepening of the horizontal neck lines and more pronounced platysma.
Why does neck age faster than face? ›
When you look down at the floor or up at the ceiling, you are stretching your neck. Over the years, all this stretching, along with the loss of collagen and elastin — two naturally occurring proteins — can cause the neck to age faster than the face.
When did turtlenecks go out of style? ›
Turtlenecks made their first popular appearance in the 1920's amongst the middle class society, but existed even earlier. They then began to taper off in the 1980's, 1990's, and early 2000's. However, many people are beginning to find new ways to style them, creating new trends for 2021.
Are turtlenecks in style for 2023? ›
In fact, oversized sweaters are the most fashionable sweaters of the season. Are turtlenecks in fashion for winter 2023? Yes! Oversized turtleneck sweaters are trending for winter 2023.
What is out of fashion in 2022? ›
Insider asked two style experts to share which fashion trends should be left in 2022. Denim-on-denim looks and camo-print clothes are both fading, as are larger sunglasses. They also said high-waisted pants were being replaced by mid- and low-rise varieties.
What is the most popular outfit in 2022? ›
9 Top Style Updates for Fall
- Wider, looser jeans.
- Loafers with attitude.
- A wear-with-boots dress.
- A leather or suede skirt.
- A blue sweater.
- A chic shirt-jacket.
- A leggings replacement.
- Real pants.
Give your basic jeans and tee combination a seasonal update with a tight, tucked-in turtleneck shirt, a plaid blazer, some classic denim pants, and some booties. If you want to look more polished, try adding a leather belt and top-handle bag.
Do you fold a turtleneck in or out? ›
Turtlenecks are designed to be worn with the neck folded down. If you don't fold it down it could cover your chin. Most wear them folded over once ( me too ), but I've seen some who wear them so they scrunch down at the base of their neck and that's OK too.
What Style To Avoid For Turtlenecks Look Good On Round Face. If you have a defined jaw line, it's no problem to wear most of the turtlenecks styles, even if you have a round face. But if you have a more chubby lower face, it's best for you to avoid tight turtlenecks.
Do turtlenecks make you look taller or shorter? ›
Turtlenecks and other closed neck styles make you look short because they hide your neck. Tucking in your shirt also helps because cutting out excess fabric lengthens the lines of your body.
What neckline makes your neck look longer? ›
Here are a few suggestions: Try collars and necklines such as V-necks, sweetheart necklines and U-necks will give the illusion of a longer, slimmer neck. Accessories can also visually lengthen the neck and make it appear more slender.
Do turtlenecks make your neck look longer or shorter? ›
Avoid turtlenecks
These types of necklines will cause your neck to look even shorter and wider than it is.
What neckline makes you look taller? ›
V-shaped necklines give the illusion of a longer torso. Longer = taller and taller = goals. Can't argue with that math! Plus, V-necks are a super-easy way to incorporate the illusion of height into your wardrobe.
Do turtlenecks look good on skinny guys? ›
V-neck sweaters look great on skinny guys, as the shape of the neck compliments a skinny frame in a way that few other clothing items do. You can also get away with wearing a turtleneck sweater, which look much better on skinny men than they do even on men with a moderate build.
