How can you get the most out of your turtleneck?
Discover how to style and care for a turtleneck. Tips on smart layering combinations, folding the collar, and properly caring for delicate knits.
The turtleneck is the ultimate classic for fall and winter. But what’s the best way to style and care for this versatile garment? From smart layering hacks to maintaining the perfect collar and fit: here’s how to get the most out of your favourite turtleneck.
- Styling
- Perfect for layering under blazers, cardigans, and dresses
- Collar Options
- Fold it the classic way, let it drape casually, or fold it inward
- Washing Instructions
- Wash on a wool cycle with a mild wool detergent
- Drying & Storage
- Lay flat to dry on a towel and store folded (do not hang)
It’s still freezing cold turtleneck weather for the time being, and that calls for a styling clinic! Demand for warm turtlenecks made from merino wool, alpaca wool, and cashmere is high, but not everyone knows the styling tricks for turtlenecks. PLEIN PUBLIQUE to the rescue with:
HOW DO YOU GET THE MOST
OUT OF YOUR TURTLE NECK?
THE TIPS
1. Don’t leave it in the closet—put it on (obvious but true)
2.THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX: a turtleneck doesn’t just look good with your favorite skinny or flared jeans. Pair it with slightly dressier pants like our LA FORTE or LE FABIAN to create a casual-chic look that’ll keep you looking sharp and feeling cozy at work.
3. TAKE A CRITICAL LOOK AT YOUR NECK. Its length and shape determine which type of turtleneck looks best on you. If your neck is on the shorter side, opt for a turtleneck that isn’t too tight, like the one from our cashmere-blend LA CLIQUE collection. A little space between the turtleneck and your neck will make your neck look longer and slimmer. Are you blessed with a long, slender swan-like neck? Then you can pull off any type of collar, even a close-fitting turtleneck like our merino wool LE SALLES or the LE FRANCOIS.
4.TAKE A CRITICAL LOOK AT YOUR “OUTLINE,” or your overall silhouette. Yes, even from the side! If you have a full bust, a turtleneck will emphasize it. What about that? Nothing, but it’s good to know. If your cup size is on the smaller side, a turtleneck will visually add a bit more “body.” Here’s another tip: a turtleneck with a subtle pattern or unique details breaks up the plain look and creates a playful effect. This naturally draws attention to different areas and gives your look that little extra something.
5. FRENCH TUCK. If you’re wearing a slightly looser-fitting sweater with a collar that’s a bit too bulky, tuck the front of the sweater into your waistband. This “French tuck’ is as elegant as it is casual—a combination that adds just a touch of excitement to any look. Well, those French ladies sure know what they’re doing…
The Turtleneck Edit
6. LAYERS. Slim-fit sweaters and T-shirts with a crew neck or turtleneck are often worn layered under a blazer or cardigan. Tip: Try wearing them under a dress that’s just a little too thin for the time of year. This works especially well with dresses that have a round neck or V-neck. Avoid dresses with a collar; the excess fabric around your neck can look a bit bulky. LA FORTE features a slightly tighter cowl neck that fits perfectly under a round or V-neck. There are plenty of colours in the shop—there’s always one that matches your style.
7. LAST BUT NOT LEAST: the new sleeveless turtlenecks are also a hit. Especially when it’s just a little warmer, but not quite warm enough to switch yet. They look great paired with a cardigan. How about LE FRANCOIS, for example? This finely knitted style, made from a high-quality merino wool blend, feels wonderfully comfortable and is perfect for the in-between seasons. The refined details give the timeless design a modern twist and make LE FRANCOIS a versatile favourite for all kinds of looks.
FAQ
What's the best way to style a turtleneck?
A turtleneck is perfect for layering. Wear a fine-knit turtleneck under a blazer for a professional look, under a cardigan for a casual style, or under a sleeveless dress or jumpsuit to wear summer pieces into the winter.
What's the best way to keep a knitted turtleneck from losing its shape?
Never hang a knitted turtleneck on a hanger, as this will cause the knit to stretch at the shoulders and collar. Fold the sweater neatly and store it laying down in the closet. After washing, always lay the turtleneck flat to dry.
How do you fold the collar of a turtleneck?
You can fold the collar outward once for a classic look, fold it inward for a sleek stand-up collar with no visible seam, or let it drape loosely for a casual look.
