How to style a turtleneck sweater: 8 easy outfits
How to style a turtleneck sweater: when to tuck, how to balance a chunky knit, layering under coats and dresses, accessories and easy outfits for every day.
A turtleneck is one of the easiest winter pieces to own. It keeps your neck warm, frames your face and makes even a simple pair of jeans look put together. The only real questions are how to tuck it, what to pair it with and how to layer it without feeling like a marshmallow. Here is how.
Should you tuck in a turtleneck?
It depends on how the sweater fits.
- Fitted or fine knit: a full tuck. thredUP suggests tucking a fitted turtleneck into high-waisted jeans or wide-leg trousers to emphasize the waist.
- Relaxed or chunky knit: a front tuck. Stylist Natalie Yerger says a front tuck with the rest of the sweater left loose usually looks best on oversized knits.
- Hip-length: leave it out over slim or fitted bottoms. Yerger notes that the more fitted the rest of the look is, the more easily you can wear a sweater untucked.
- Other options: a belt at the waist, or knot the hem and tuck the knot in.
What pants go with a turtleneck sweater?
Balance is the idea. A relaxed knit on top looks best with something more fitted below, and a slim knit can handle a wider leg.
- High-waisted jeans, straight or wide leg.
- Flare pants, fitted at the hip and wide at the hem.
- Tailored trousers for work.
- Leggings or slim pants under a hip-length knit.
A relaxed turtleneck and a flare pant are a natural pair: the top is soft and roomy, the pant is fitted at the hip. Our Cable Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater is made for exactly this. It is a soft knit with cable-knit raglan sleeves, a relaxed body and a hip length, and it is designed to be worn with our Scrunch Back Flare Pant.
Can you wear a turtleneck with a skirt or dress?
Yes, and it is one of the easiest ways to winterize a summer piece.
- Under a slip dress: thredUP suggests a fitted turtleneck under a slip dress with tights and heeled boots.
- With a midi or long skirt: thredUP pairs a chunky cable knit with a lightweight A-line or pleated skirt to offset the bulk.
- With a mini skirt: a chunky knit with a mini and opaque tights is a textured, cozy look.
How do you layer a turtleneck?
- Under a denim or leather jacket. thredUP suggests a turtleneck under a denim jacket for in-between weather.
- Under a blazer for work. Thinner knits fit under tailored jackets more easily.
- Under a long coat. With a chunky knit, Natalie Yerger drapes the coat over her shoulders instead of wearing it on, so the layers do not get bulky.
- Over a bodysuit or a thin base top on very cold days.
What accessories go with a turtleneck?
The high neckline makes earrings stand out. thredUP suggests a statement belt, an oversized wool scarf, layered necklaces, gold statement earrings and a crossbody bag. Natalie Yerger prefers a quieter look and sticks to rings, bracelets and earrings. Both work, so go with your taste.
How do you wear a turtleneck to work?
Keep the knit smooth and the bottoms tailored. A fitted or fine knit turtleneck tucks neatly into trousers and fits under a blazer without bulk. A relaxed, hip-length knit looks polished with slim trousers or flares and a long coat. Add one piece of jewelry, like earrings, since the high neckline frames your face. On days with a cold office and a warm commute, the turtleneck can be your middle layer, with a cardigan at your desk you can take on and off.
How do you keep a turtleneck in good shape?
Fold it instead of hanging it. The American Cleaning Institute warns that hanging can stretch sweaters out of shape, which shows quickly at the shoulders and neck. Follow the care label when washing, and dry knits flat so the cuffs, sleeves and neckline keep their shape. Watch for rings and bag straps too. The American Cleaning Institute notes that some knits are delicate and snag easily.
8 easy turtleneck outfits
- Turtleneck, high-waisted jeans, ankle boots.
- Turtleneck, flare pants, heeled boots.
- Turtleneck under a slip dress, tights, boots.
- Turtleneck, pleated midi skirt, loafers.
- Turtleneck, tailored trousers, blazer.
- Turtleneck, denim jacket, straight jeans, sneakers.
- Turtleneck, mini skirt, opaque tights, knee boots.
- Turtleneck, leggings, long coat draped over the shoulders.
If you want outfit two ready to go, The Winter Layers Set includes the turtleneck, the flare pant and a pair of fleece-lined tights.
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Questions
Should you tuck in a turtleneck sweater?
It depends on the knit. thredUP suggests tucking a fitted turtleneck into high-waisted jeans or wide-leg trousers to show the waist. With a chunky knit, stylist Natalie Yerger suggests a front tuck and leaving the rest loose.
What pants go with a turtleneck?
Almost anything: high-waisted jeans, wide-leg trousers, flares and slim pants. With a relaxed or chunky turtleneck, a more fitted bottom keeps the outfit balanced.
Can you wear a necklace with a turtleneck?
Yes. thredUP lists layered necklaces and gold statement earrings as easy accessories. If you prefer a quieter look, Natalie Yerger suggests rings, bracelets and earrings instead.
Can you wear a turtleneck under a dress?
Yes. thredUP suggests layering a fitted turtleneck under a slip dress with tights and heeled boots to make it winter-ready.
How do you keep a chunky turtleneck from looking bulky?
Pair it with slimmer bottoms, try a front tuck, and drape a coat over your shoulders instead of layering a fitted jacket on top.
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Sources: thredUP: turtleneck outfit ideas · Natalie Yerger: how to style a turtleneck · MasterClass: how to style flared jeans, turtlenecks for cooler weather