If you’re looking for a way to elevate your closet this winter, nothing beats a good turtleneck when it comes to looking stylish and staying warm. What’s more versatile and more remarkable than a turtleneck? Not much at all. What served as a uniform for 19th-century polo players back in the day has become a modern menswear staple today.
Whether you’re planning on layering a lightweight version or rocking a sturdier knit on its own, turtlenecks add an element of sophistication no matter the outfit.
How to style a turtleneck
The idea behind a turtleneck is to elevate an outfit more than a simple sweater will do. Since it has a high collar, it will stick above everything else and add depth to the look. But be careful; it won’t be that hard to end up looking like Ron Burgundy. The trick is to keep the turtlenecks under sport coats and suits thin and elegant and save the thick, knitted turtleneck sweaters for more casual looks.
If you wear it under a suit or sport coat, keep the pattern solid and the color dark. Elegance is in the simplicity of dress. Once you have it down, the turtleneck is going to be your best friend. These winter tops from our favorite men’s clothing brands are versatile enough to style with any of your favorite jeans or suits, keeping you protected from the elements. Moreover, they’re a sleek and easy look to throw on during your video conference calls. We’ve made it easy by carefully handpicking the best of turtlenecks in prints, stripes, solids, merinos, and cashmere to get you through this season.
Buck Mason Herdsman turtleneck
While some turtlenecks look fabulous under a suit with their sleek silhouette, the Herdsman at Buck Mason is the kind of sweater that makes you want to travel. While this turtleneck will look great in your backyard, it is designed to overlook the cliffs of Ireland, protecting you from the rain and the wind. The 95% merino wool and the 5% cashmere come together for one of the softest and most comfortable garments you’ll have in the closet.
Suit Supply turtleneck
Wearing a sweater under your suit can be tricky, mainly because they are thicker than your dress shirts. But that changes with this slim and sleek turtleneck designed to be worn under your jackets. The dark color makes it perfect for virtually any color suit. The soft 100% Australian wool is slim, breathable, and luxurious, setting up a time when you look forward to wearing your suits again.
Ralph Lauren navy turtleneck
If you are surprised that Ralph Lauren is on this list then you aren’t paying very close attention. Ralph Lauren is one of our favorite brands because of its storied history and the constant adherence to classic style with a flare of trendiness. This turtleneck is the perfect way to elevate your style. And of course, every Ralph Lauren garment has the quintessential pony, and this one is on the left chest.
Aran Fisherman’s merino ribbed turtleneck
Named for the islands off the coast of Ireland and resisting the relentless Atlantic Ocean, the Aran Islands are the origin story for these classic ribbed turtlenecks. Made for the many fishermen on the islands, this turtleneck sweater is perfect for protection from the elements. This turtleneck is best worn as a casual garment with jeans and boots instead of dressier looks.
Banana Republic Bariloche cable wool turtleneck
Banana Republic is one of the top brands in fashion; almost every mall is graced with one of its stores. Because of that, it is a name that tends to drive the trends that we buy into year after year. This unique piece is warm and luxurious, with honeycomb stitching and marble color that will keep the wind off you and the eyes on you.
Johnstons of Elgin cashmere donegal
Much like the Aran sweater, this cashmere donegal hails from the rough seas of the British Isles and holds a special place in our hearts for two reasons. The first is the striking colorway, with the speckled black with white. And second, the soft cashmere. You owe it to yourself to get the best cashmere you can, and the cashmere donegal from Johnstons of Elgin is the best on the market.
Weavers of Ireland turtleneck
Remember that turtleneck designed to protect you against the wind and rain on the cliffs of Ireland? This one is made to protect the fishermen on the seas themselves. Weavers of Ireland believes that the turtleneck is a staple in every man’s wardrobe, and it doubled down on that belief by weaving that heritage into this piece. The cable design of this turtleneck sweater represents the ropes the fishermen use, and the honeycomb design represents the fruits of an honest day’s labor.
We agree with Weavers of Ireland — the turtleneck should absolutely be a staple in your wardrobe. Whether you need something sleek and luxurious to add a new and fresh layer to your suit wardrobe or to protect yourself from the elements, there is something here for you.
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