Style|20 May 2021How To Style A Turtleneck Sweater
Turtlenecks are fashionable right now, but many guys are put off wearing them because it can be difficult to style them with more than just a pair of pants. But when done right, a turtleneck can add a level of sophistication to your wardrobe that other knits and jumper can’t match.
So in this blog, we are going to look at three ways you can wear these cool and versatile sweaters. Once you master the turtleneck, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one in your wardrobe.
WITH A SUIT
One of the classic ways of wearing a turtleneck is to pair it with a well-fitted suit. This gives a cool masculine look, by highlighting broad shoulders for when you skip arms at the gym. But don’t wear them with just any old suit, as a classic tailored slim-fitting suit works best to create the classic silhouette.
Styling tip: Be careful not to match the colour of your suit with your sweater. The colour of the turtleneck should contrast your suit. For example, try pairing this black zip turtleneck sweater with a light grey suit and a pair of white trainers to create a relaxed tailored look.
As for shoes, wear classic simple shoes such as Loafers or Dress Shoes. For a coordinated look, try and match the colour of your shoes with the colour of your turtleneck. And yes, it is fine to wear trainers with a suit, just make sure they are clean and simple pump style trainers and not bright running shoes.
SMART CASUAL
Turtlenecks are versatile garments that are just at home with a pair of chinos as they are underneath a suit. This makes them perfect for pulling off a smart-casual outfit. You can quickly smarten up a turtleneck for work and then dress down for an evening in the pub without having to change.
Styling tip: Unlike with a suit, it is OK to choose the same colour sweater as your pants. For example, try pairing a navy turtleneck sweater with a pair of check chinos. Turn the bottom of the chinos up and wear them with a pair of brown Chelsea boots to add a little colour.
The jacket is crucial when looking to create an effective smart casual outfit. Go for a more relaxed fitting jacket in a contrasting colour to your turtleneck and jeans. A brightly coloured pea coat or check pattern is ideal and will create a really sophisticated look that’ll earn you many compliments.
CASUAL
Turtlenecks are nothing if not versatile, so there is nothing to stop you from wearing your turtleneck with a pair of jeans or chinos with a drawstring waistband. When done right, this creates a cool retro vibe which is very fashionable at the moment. The trick to pulling off this look is to layer your outfit carefully.
Styling tip: Wear a plain turtleneck with a pair of blue jeans or chinos. Any colour sweater will do, so long as it contrasts with your pants. Check out this caramel zip-neck turtle for example, and pair it with a pair of black slim-fitting jeans. This can be worn with trainers or Chelsea boots, depending on your mood.
For outerwear, you can wear a bomber jacket, overcoat or parka. This can be in a matching or contrasting colour to your sweater. If you go with a matching colour, make sure it contrasts with your pants. You don’t want to create a monochrome outfit. For shoes, almost anything goes; Chelsea boots, trainers and loafers can all work well.
FINAL TAKEAWAYS
Turtlenecks can be intimidating at first, but they are a really versatile sweater when you get used to them. If you are nervous about adding them to your wardrobe, start with a few neutral colours such as black or this navy knitted turtleneck. These are easy to pair with other garments to create a compelling outfit.
When you are feeling more adventurous, try a few more daring colours, such as red, green or caramel and pair them with a pair of black jeans and chukka boots. Finally, try a few patterned turtlenecks to prove you have truly mastered how to wear this classic versatile garment.
When it comes to fit, this will depend on what kind of look you're after. A dressed-up look can get away with a tight-fitting sweater, but for the everyday wardrobe, a standard fit works best. During the winter, extra baggy also works well and creates a relaxed look that will keep you warm and cosy.
