As much as I will miss the beer-stained Hawaiian shirts you’ve been wearing all summer, it’s time to retire them in favor of something a little cozier. Quarter-zips! Pullovers! Sweaters! Oh my!
Yes, you know the drill, it’s time to break out the flannels and your favorite Patagonia and, listen, I’m on board with all of that. But let’s take your fall wardrobe a little further, or shall I say a little longer, with one more essential item: the turtleneck.
The turtleneck is a very contested article of clothing. It often does not invoke fond memories. It’s the thing your parents forced you to wear on holidays, causing you to spend the entirety of Thanksgiving dinner scratching your neck. I have learned through many passionate turtleneck debates that it’s very difficult to convince people who don’t like things touching their neck to sport one. But if you are an anti-turtlenecker, let me tell you one more time about all the wondrous things a turtleneck has to offer.
First and foremost they’re cozy, which is what we’re all obviously looking for in a fall wardrobe. You also have your choice in a variety of fabrics and styles for various occasions. You have your thinner, slimmer turtlenecks — good for layering and atypical October weather, and then your thicker cable-knit turtlenecks for November.
But most importantly, the turtleneck is sexy, which I’m sure sounds like an oxymoron. It’s less ooo what’s under that cashmere and more English Professor let’s discuss Proust while we walk through the courtyard as the crisp, colorful autumn leaves fall around us vibe (preferably without all the mansplaining, but that’s a choice unto you). The turtleneck simply invokes a sophisticated, smart style and transforms pretty much any outfit without much work on your part. All you really have to do now is get over your fear of fabric hugging your neck.
Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Turtleneck Long-Sleeve Sweater
If you can only indulge in one kind of turtleneck, make it a black one.
H&M Ribbed Turtleneck Shirt
My personal favorite turtleneck color — and this comfy ribbed stretch cotton neck jersey is primed for layering.
Todd Snyder Cashmere Turtleneck in Chestnut
If a pumpkin spiced latte could wear a turtleneck I assume it would be this one. A more sophisticated staple in a delicious fall color. Plus the mid-weight cashmere will keep you cozy without looking bulky.
J.Crew Unisex 1988 Cotton Rollneck™ Sweater
If you really can’t deal with the neck-hugging, try J.Crew’s iconic cotton rollneck sweater. While it’s only half a turtleneck, it’s still got full turtleneck vibes.
Howlin’ Burgundy Sylvester Slim-Fit Wool Rollneck Sweater
I’m not saying you’ll look like Colin Firth in this, but you might look like Colin Firth in this.
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