Dos and Don’ts of Wearing a Turtleneck
Is there anything easier than a turtleneck? Seriously, you can throw one on and look and feel great while being ready for anything. There are a few dos and don’ts of wearing a turtleneck, however, let’s dive into them to make sure you look your best.
Do Enjoy a Turtleneck With a Skirt or Pants
For an instant outfit that will take you almost anywhere, pull on a turtleneck with your favorite pencil skirt or dress pants. For a dressier look, choose a turtleneck that has a finer knit in a classic neutral. For a more casual look, go for a looser knit, perhaps with more texture. Turtlenecks can look great with women’s jeans and women’s yoga pants, too! They are one of the most versatile garments that you can own.
The only hard “don’t” with wearing a turtleneck with your favorite skirt or pants is don’t wear a turtleneck that doesn’t fit your frame. The sweater should skim your body instead of looking either tight or baggy. It should fit your height evenly from the top of the “turtle” to the hem of the sleeves and sweater. The top of the “turtle” should stop about an inch to an inch and a half below your chin when it is folded for wearing. If you need a petite or tall turtleneck, check out the Lands’ End options for your size.
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.
Do Layer a Turtleneck
Turtlenecks are meant for layering. They can look good under anything from a sweatshirt to a crewneck sweater to a dressy blazer. This can add both versatility and warmth to your outfit. If you plan to layer your turtleneck, keep in mind both the thickness and smoothness of the fabric. A thin, smooth turtleneck is truly meant for layering. A thicker, more textured turtleneck can still be layered, but you will want to make sure that the piece you put over it fits nicely comfortably with the turtleneck. A blazer that might look great over a woman’s white blouse might or might not work with a given turtleneck. When in doubt, try them on in front of a full-length mirror. You want a fit that feels comfortable while creating a graceful line. Don’t stuff a too big turtleneck into a regular-sized blazer.
Do Encourage Your Guy to Wear a Turtleneck
Men’s turtleneck sweaters have always been a classic, but their popularity spiked when Steve Jobs created that handsome techie minimalist look with turtlenecks a few years back. He did this for several reasons, one of which is that being able to throw on a turtleneck and look great is a big advantage because of its simplicity. For guys who are not into fashion, it’s an easy option that can work for business casual or an evening out.
Do encourage your guy to wear a turtleneck for men in a color that is flattering to him. Always put this in the positive. Tell him how well a specific shade brings out his eyes or how he looks distinguished in a particular color. For guys with some silver in their hair, black or gray turtlenecks can be a great look and have the advantage of going with almost everything in their wardrobes.
Do Gift Turtlenecks for the Holidays
Turtlenecks make great holiday gifts. For starters, almost everyone looks great in a turtleneck (if the fit is right). They also come in fun holiday colors and holiday prints which people will enjoy wearing. Before you go shopping, make sure that you have current sizes for all the loved ones on your gift list. Also, choose a brick-and-mortar or online store that has an easy return policy (like Lands’ End does) if your information on the size is a bit off, or they just prefer a different color.
For a fun holiday theme, choose matching turtlenecks for the whole family. You could choose a cute pattern or go for a lovely solid color like red, green, or white. If you choose to buy non-matching turtlenecks, try to match the colors of their favorite clothes, schools, and sports teams. A cozy turtleneck in the right color is bound to be a hit.
The dos and don’ts of turtlenecks are easy. Do wear turtlenecks. Don’t wear one that doesn’t fit you or one that you don’t like. Do enjoy them!