Terms of UseHow to Wear a Turtleneck Explore this Article methods 1 Choosing the Fit 2 Building a Casual Look 3 Dressing up a Turtleneck 4 Adding Accessories + Show 1 more... - Show less... Other Sections Expert Q&A Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Paul Julch, MA and Amy Bobinger, BA
Last Updated: September 16, 2025 References
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This article was co-authored by Paul Julch, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 11,706 times.
When the weather turns chilly, a turtleneck is the perfect way to stay warm. While styling them can seem a little tricky, turtlenecks are actually very versatile. They come in a variety of fits, textures, and weights, with options ranging from a slinky cropped turtleneck to a chunky cable-knit sweater version. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend look or an office-ready outfit, add a turtleneck to your wardrobe this year!
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 4:
Choosing the Fit
1 Pair a boxy turtleneck sweater with straight-leg or skinny jeans. If you want to wear a square-shaped turtleneck sweater, opt for a slimmer pant to balance out the shape. If you wear baggy pants, your style will look sloppy.[1]XResearch source
If you’re broad-shouldered with narrow hips, wearing jeans with a slight bootcut might be more flattering.
If your sweater covers your rear, try pairing it with leggings and knee-length boots for a feminine fall look!
2 Wear a cropped turtleneck with high-waisted pants for a slimming retro look. To emphasize the narrowest part of your waist, wear high-waisted jeans that stop at the narrowest part of your waist, along with a cropped turtleneck that hits just at or below the waistline of your pants. This will draw attention upward, making you look taller and leaner.[2]XResearch source
For instance, you might wear a black cropped turtleneck with a pair of dark-wash, high-waisted skinny jeans, and stilettos for a night out. To make the look more daring, show a little midriff!
If you’re going to the office, wear a pair of wide-legged, high-waisted trousers with chunky shoes and a cropped turtleneck in a coordinating color, but be sure your midriff is completely covered.
If your widest part is around the middle of your waist, this may not be the right silhouette for you.
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3 Opt for a light-weight turtleneck if you're layering. Layered looks are always in fashion, and they’re a great way to make sure you’re always prepared when the weather is unpredictable. If you want to create a layered look with a turtleneck, opt for a thin material, like a lightweight cotton or a rayon blend.[3]X Expert Source Paul Julch, MAPersonal Wardrobe Stylist & SpeakerExpert Interview [4]XResearch source
Bulky materials can be uncomfortable when you’re layering, and you might get overheated if you’re indoors.
Turtleneck bodysuits are great for layering, since they’ll naturally fit close to your body
4 Balance a slim-fitting turtleneck with wide-legged or boot-cut pants. If you’ve been looking for the perfect top for a pair of wide-legged pants, a slim-fitting, lightweight turtleneck might be the answer! The elongated neck will help give you the extra height you need to balance out even very wide-legged pants.
A thin white turtleneck would look great with a pair of tweed wide-legged trousers and loafers!
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Method 2 Method 2 of 4:
Building a Casual Look
1 Wear a turtleneck with distressed jeans to look more casual. When you want to look casual but still stylish, toss on your favorite turtleneck and a pair of jeans that are distressed along the thighs and around the knees. Opt for casual shoes, and keep your accessories simple.[5]XResearch source
For instance, you might wear a slouchy, thick-knit turtleneck with a pair of slim-fitting destroyed jeans. You could then finish the look with hiking boots and with your favorite watch.
You could also choose to wear a tight turtleneck in a thin material along with distressed boyfriend jeans, canvas sneakers, and a statement belt.
Tip: If you don’t have distressed jeans, you can make your own from jeans you already have!
2 Layer a turtleneck under your favorite tank when the weather is cold. Just because the temperature is dropping doesn’t mean you have to pack away all of your summer clothes. If there’s a tank top in your closet that you still want to wear, slip it on over a close-fitting turtleneck and you’ll be warm and cozy all day.[6]XResearch source
This works best with flowy or loose-fitting tank tops. However, don’t be afraid to try on creative combinations from your closet. You might be surprised what you like!
For instance, you could wear a thin white turtleneck under a floral tank top for those spring days when it’s still too cool for short sleeves.
3 Dress up a baggy sweatshirt by layering it over a turtleneck. Turtlenecks tend to look a little dressy, so they instantly elevate whatever you wear with one. If you want your favorite rainy-day sweatshirt to look a little more presentable, try wearing a buttery-soft turtleneck underneath it. Then, pair it with distressed jeans for a casual look or leggings if you have a more athletic style.[7]XResearch source
Wear a moisture-wicking turtleneck under an athletic sweatshirt and running shoes to fight off the wind chill when you’re hitting the pavement.
4 Stay cozy by pairing a turtleneck with a flannel button-down. Flannels and turtlenecks are both classic, cozy options during cold weather, so it’s no surprise they go so well together! Choose a turtleneck that matches one of the colors in your flannel to look more put-together, or go for contrasting colors to make the flannel pop.[8]XResearch source
If you’re wearing a thin turtleneck, layer it under your flannel. You can either button up the flannel or leave it open, depending on what you prefer.
For an even warmer outfit, wear your flannel shirt under a thick, oversized turtleneck. Leave your flannel untucked so the bottom peeks out from under the turtleneck.
5 Layer a turtleneck under a leather jacket for an edgy look. Leather jackets are the epitome of cool, and pairing one with a turtleneck looks even cooler. Whether you’re rocking a moto jacket or a bomber, this combo will add a dash of mystery to your style.[9]XResearch source
If you want to show off your inner rock star, go with an all-black turtleneck-and-jeans combo, then top that with a black leather jacket.
A white turtleneck looks fresh under a leather jacket with a shearling collar.
6 Top your turtleneck with a holiday sweater for a festive look. Want to go all in for the winter holidays? Find a sweater decorated with holiday-themed designs like snowflakes or reindeer, and wear it over a turtleneck. You’ll be ready for spiced cider and caroling in no time![10]XResearch source
Take this look to the next level with a pair of red corduroy pants!
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Method 3 Method 3 of 4:
Dressing up a Turtleneck
1 Wear a sleek turtleneck under an oversized coat for a simple, glam look. Sometimes style doesn’t take a lot of work. Choose a turtleneck that fits close to your body, then wear an oversized coat, slim-fitting pants, and dress shoes. This simple look is chic and versatile, and it couldn’t be easier![11]XResearch source
For instance, a white cable-knit turtleneck would look perfect under a camel-colored peacoat.
A simple black turtleneck is the perfect complement to a luxurious leopard-print fur or faux-fur coat.
Tip: If the weather isn’t cool enough for a coat, opt for a blazer or a jacket instead!
2 Tuck your turtleneck into a skirt for a classic, feminine look. Show off your feminine style in the cool weather by wearing a turtleneck tucked into your favorite skirt. You can wear this style with anything from a mini-skirt to a maxi skirt, and you’ll always look fresh and stylish.[12]XResearch source
Turtleneck bodysuits are especially well-suited to being tucked into a skirt, since they won’t bunch up at your waist.
If the weather is really cold, wear tights under your skirt to stay warm!
3 Wear a sleeveless turtleneck under a jacket, sweater, or cardigan. Sleeveless turtlenecks are a great layering piece. They give your finished outfit a refined look, but you don’t have to worry about extra layers on your arms keeping you too warm. Just slip on a lightweight top layer and you’re ready to head out the door![13]XResearch source
Plan the rest of your outfit the way you would if the turtleneck had sleeves. For instance, if you’re wearing a cropped sleeveless turtleneck, you might opt for high-waisted trousers.
4 Layer a turtleneck under a sleeveless dress to wear it in cold weather. Whether your favorite summertime dress is a slip dress or a breezy shirtdress, it can be hard to make it work when the weather turns cold. By wearing your dress over a lightweight turtleneck, you don’t have to hang it in the back of your closet until it warms up again![14]XResearch source
If you’re heading to the office, stick with styles that are more structured, like a shirt dress or a wrap dress.
For a romantic daytime look, wear a flowy maxi dress over your turtleneck.
5 Add a vest for extra warmth. Turtlenecks and vests are a great pair, no matter what your style. And not only does it look great, but this combo will keep you extra warm when it’s frigid out![15]XResearch source
For an edgy look, opt for a leather or denim vest.
If your style is classic and feminine, pair your turtleneck with a long vest.
Top your turtleneck with a puffy vest if your style is more active or outdoorsy.
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Method 4 Method 4 of 4:
Adding Accessories
1 Wear a loose choker necklace to accentuate your neck. Turtlenecks elongate your neck, and wearing a choker-style necklace around the outside of your turtleneck will only emphasize this effect. Opt for a loose style that rests just at your collarbone, rather than a tight-fitting choker that sits around your throat.[16]XResearch source
Your necklace will be front-and-center, so don’t be afraid to go big with a statement piece!
This style works best with a chunkier necklace, rather than a delicate one. Since the necklace will be showcased against a lot of fabric, a dainty necklace might get lost
2 Wear a long chain necklace to elongate your torso. A longer necklace is great to balance out the proportion of a turtleneck. Since this look will give your outfit a boho vibe, it’s perfect if you have a more laid-back style.[17]XResearch source
Opt for a thicker chain for the most visual contrast against your turtleneck.
3 Glam up your look with statement earrings. Since your turtleneck will draw attention toward your face, there’s no better time to show off a pair of dramatic statement earrings. Look for a style that reaches to about your chin for the most flattering look.[18]XResearch source
Hoop, chandelier, and drop earrings are all popular styles to pair with a turtleneck. Look for these styles with eye-catching details like a big gemstone unique shape, or bold color.
Remember to wear your hair up to show off your earrings!
4 Add a brooch to dress up your turtleneck. If you want to add a little visual interest to a solid-colored turtleneck, try pinning a brooch just below your collarbone. Just pass the hinged pin through the fabric on your shirt and secure it to add a glam touch![19]XResearch source
A brooch may leave a small hole in your shirt or sweater.
5 Belt a long turtleneck sweater to define your waist. If you’re worried that your turtleneck is too shapeless, loosely wrap a belt around the narrowest part of your waist. This will emphasize your natural shape without constricting you too much.[20]XResearch source
6 Tie a scarf around the outside of your turtleneck for a preppy look. A scarf-and-turtleneck combo is a classic look that never goes out of style. Just match the weight of your scarf to the weight of your turtleneck to ensure they look like they belong together, then knot the scarf around your neck outside of the turtleneck.[21]XResearch source
For example, you might wear a silk scarf with a tissue-thin turtleneck.
A chunky knit scarf is great for a knit turtleneck sweater.
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Expert Q&A
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Question What can I layer over a turtleneck? Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley. Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Expert Answer Lots of things. If your turtleneck is thin, you can layer a button-down shirt or open-collar sweater over it, along with a cardigan or jacket. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question Can anyone pull off a turtleneck? Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley. Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Expert Answer Absolutely! Turtlenecks are just as functional as T-shirts, especially in the fall and winter months. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question How do you wear a bulky turtleneck sweater? Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley. Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Expert Answer Bulky turtleneck sweaters are best worn their own. They're a bit tricky to layer since they're so chunky. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
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Co-authored by: Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker This article was co-authored by Paul Julch, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley. This article has been viewed 11,706 times. 1 votes - 100% Co-authors: 11Updated: September 16, 2025 Views: 11,706Article SummaryX
If you want to wear a boxy or square-shaped turtleneck, try to pair it with slimmer pants, such as straight-leg or skinny jeans so your outfit doesn’t look too baggy. Alternatively, if you have a slim-fitting turtleneck, match it with wide-legged or boot-cut jeans to balance out the look. If you’re layering a turtleneck on top of other clothes, go for a light-weight material to maintain a snug fit and keep you cool in warmer weather. You can also wear a turtleneck with an oversized coat for a simple, glam look or with a skirt for a classic, feminine look. For more tips, including how to emphasize your turtleneck with accessories, read on!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Co-authored by: Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker This article was co-authored by Paul Julch, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley. This article has been viewed 11,706 times. 1 votes - 100% Co-authors: 11 Updated: September 16, 2025 Views: 11,706 Article SummaryX
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626 
1 Pair a boxy turtleneck sweater with straight-leg or skinny jeans. If you want to wear a square-shaped turtleneck sweater, opt for a slimmer pant to balance out the shape. If you wear baggy pants, your style will look sloppy.[1] 
2 Wear a cropped turtleneck with high-waisted pants for a slimming retro look. To emphasize the narrowest part of your waist, wear high-waisted jeans that stop at the narrowest part of your waist, along with a cropped turtleneck that hits just at or below the waistline of your pants. This will draw attention upward, making you look taller and leaner.[2] 
3 Opt for a light-weight turtleneck if you're layering. Layered looks are always in fashion, and they’re a great way to make sure you’re always prepared when the weather is unpredictable. If you want to create a layered look with a turtleneck, opt for a thin material, like a lightweight cotton or a rayon blend.[3] [4] 
4 Balance a slim-fitting turtleneck with wide-legged or boot-cut pants. If you’ve been looking for the perfect top for a pair of wide-legged pants, a slim-fitting, lightweight turtleneck might be the answer! The elongated neck will help give you the extra height you need to balance out even very wide-legged pants. 
1 Wear a turtleneck with distressed jeans to look more casual. When you want to look casual but still stylish, toss on your favorite turtleneck and a pair of jeans that are distressed along the thighs and around the knees. Opt for casual shoes, and keep your accessories simple.[5] 
2 Layer a turtleneck under your favorite tank when the weather is cold. Just because the temperature is dropping doesn’t mean you have to pack away all of your summer clothes. If there’s a tank top in your closet that you still want to wear, slip it on over a close-fitting turtleneck and you’ll be warm and cozy all day.[6] 
3 Dress up a baggy sweatshirt by layering it over a turtleneck. Turtlenecks tend to look a little dressy, so they instantly elevate whatever you wear with one. If you want your favorite rainy-day sweatshirt to look a little more presentable, try wearing a buttery-soft turtleneck underneath it. Then, pair it with distressed jeans for a casual look or leggings if you have a more athletic style.[7] 
4 Stay cozy by pairing a turtleneck with a flannel button-down. Flannels and turtlenecks are both classic, cozy options during cold weather, so it’s no surprise they go so well together! Choose a turtleneck that matches one of the colors in your flannel to look more put-together, or go for contrasting colors to make the flannel pop.[8] 
5 Layer a turtleneck under a leather jacket for an edgy look. Leather jackets are the epitome of cool, and pairing one with a turtleneck looks even cooler. Whether you’re rocking a moto jacket or a bomber, this combo will add a dash of mystery to your style.[9] 
6 Top your turtleneck with a holiday sweater for a festive look. Want to go all in for the winter holidays? Find a sweater decorated with holiday-themed designs like snowflakes or reindeer, and wear it over a turtleneck. You’ll be ready for spiced cider and caroling in no time![10] 
1 Wear a sleek turtleneck under an oversized coat for a simple, glam look. Sometimes style doesn’t take a lot of work. Choose a turtleneck that fits close to your body, then wear an oversized coat, slim-fitting pants, and dress shoes. This simple look is chic and versatile, and it couldn’t be easier![11] 
2 Tuck your turtleneck into a skirt for a classic, feminine look. Show off your feminine style in the cool weather by wearing a turtleneck tucked into your favorite skirt. You can wear this style with anything from a mini-skirt to a maxi skirt, and you’ll always look fresh and stylish.[12] 
3 Wear a sleeveless turtleneck under a jacket, sweater, or cardigan. Sleeveless turtlenecks are a great layering piece. They give your finished outfit a refined look, but you don’t have to worry about extra layers on your arms keeping you too warm. Just slip on a lightweight top layer and you’re ready to head out the door![13] 
4 Layer a turtleneck under a sleeveless dress to wear it in cold weather. Whether your favorite summertime dress is a slip dress or a breezy shirtdress, it can be hard to make it work when the weather turns cold. By wearing your dress over a lightweight turtleneck, you don’t have to hang it in the back of your closet until it warms up again![14] 
5 Add a vest for extra warmth. Turtlenecks and vests are a great pair, no matter what your style. And not only does it look great, but this combo will keep you extra warm when it’s frigid out![15] 
1 Wear a loose choker necklace to accentuate your neck. Turtlenecks elongate your neck, and wearing a choker-style necklace around the outside of your turtleneck will only emphasize this effect. Opt for a loose style that rests just at your collarbone, rather than a tight-fitting choker that sits around your throat.[16] 
2 Wear a long chain necklace to elongate your torso. A longer necklace is great to balance out the proportion of a turtleneck. Since this look will give your outfit a boho vibe, it’s perfect if you have a more laid-back style.[17] 
3 Glam up your look with statement earrings. Since your turtleneck will draw attention toward your face, there’s no better time to show off a pair of dramatic statement earrings. Look for a style that reaches to about your chin for the most flattering look.[18] 
4 Add a brooch to dress up your turtleneck. If you want to add a little visual interest to a solid-colored turtleneck, try pinning a brooch just below your collarbone. Just pass the hinged pin through the fabric on your shirt and secure it to add a glam touch![19] 
5 Belt a long turtleneck sweater to define your waist. If you’re worried that your turtleneck is too shapeless, loosely wrap a belt around the narrowest part of your waist. This will emphasize your natural shape without constricting you too much.[20] 
6 Tie a scarf around the outside of your turtleneck for a preppy look. A scarf-and-turtleneck combo is a classic look that never goes out of style. Just match the weight of your scarf to the weight of your turtleneck to ensure they look like they belong together, then knot the scarf around your neck outside of the turtleneck.[21] 
Paul Julch, MA Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley.