The Turtleneck Is a Forever Sleek Layer—6 Ways to Style Winter’s Unsung Hero

The turtleneck is winter’s unsung hero—a workhorse that makes cold-weather dressing not just tolerable, but actually a bit more fun. Equal parts practical and polished, it has the rare ability to extend the life of your favorite fall and spring pieces well into winter’s chill. Slip one beneath a lightweight dress or layer it under a crisp button-down for instant warmth and dimension.

It also offers an easy way to introduce color, as seen in a soft pink turtleneck that punctuated a look on Jil Sander’s runway, offering a fresh alternative to the season’s stoic neutrals. Of course, the turtleneck shines on its own, too. A classic black option tucked into denim will never go out of style, or you can lean into its statement potential, from the nostalgic striped aughts version recently reissued by Gap to sleek, monochromatic knit looks that feel soft and refined. You don’t have to sacrifice cool for cozy. Learn how in our styling guide below.

Vogue’s Favorite Layering Turtlenecks

Winterize a Button-Up and Jeans

Extend the shelf life of closet staples, like denim and a classic button-down, by slipping a turtleneck underneath. An extra layer adds warmth as well as interest. Classic black loafers ground the look.

Anchor a Statement Skirt

A neutral turtleneck can act as an anchor, modernizing ambitious evening wear, like this fringed skirt from Dries Van Noten.

Tory Burch

double T buckle Mary Jane pumps

Brilliant Earth

wide huggie hoop earrings

Add a Pop of Color

A light pink turtleneck offers bit of face-framing color when layered beneath navy separates. White jeans keep the overall vibe bright and airy.

Embrace a Monochrome Moment

For a look that’s equal parts cozy and chic, combine monochromatic knits in shades of gray and elevate the ensemble with knee-high leather boots.

Go Retro With Candy Cane Stripes

Nod towards early aughts nostalgia with a striped turtleneck from The Gap—pair it with low-rise denim, sneakers, and cheery knit accessories.

Gap

CashSoft turtleneck sweater

Converse

Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers

Lean Into Eccentricity

Even the frothiest dress can be made winter-friendly with the addition of a turtleneck layer (and some cozy socks!).

Prada

embroidered vintage-effect dress

J.Crew

Carolyn turtleneck sweater

Le Sundial

Venice Opera tasseled necklace

Shop More Turtlenecks:

Cos

turtleneck long-sleeved top

Arch4

Ariana turtleneck sweater