There are some clothing staples that stay relevant, no matter how many years pass or how many trends change. Like the little black dress, the black turtleneck remains essential in any woman's wardrobe. How, though, can you go about choosing the right turtleneck for your body type and sense of style?
While turtlenecks tend to have similar silhouettes, there are plenty of variations available for you to explore. In this guide to the black turtleneck, we'll dive into the material and style options you have available to you. You'll be able to find the turtleneck that suits you best, thereby securing a style classic for your wardrobe.
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The Pros and Cons of Turtlenecks
Adding a black turtleneck to your wardrobe isn't so much a risk as it is conscious design. You'll be embracing a classic look with this top - so should you invest? Let's break down the pros and cons.
Pros
- Classic silhouette
- Simple color that can match with just about any other
- Work-appropriate, but versatile
- Warm
Cons
- Too warm for year-round wear
- Can be uncomfortable, depending on the make and material
Many would assume that black turtlenecks are boring and that their lack of diversity should be considered a con. We're here to disprove that myth, though. Read on to see just how many different kinds of turtlenecks there are!
Types Of Black Turtlenecks
Interested in introducing a turtleneck to the rest of your wardrobe? Then let's dive into your options so you can find the turtleneck that will suit you best.
Lightweight Turtleneck Sweater
If you're looking for a basic turtleneck, this is a great place to start. The lightweight turtleneck sweater doesn't have the same cloying texture as many wool-based sweaters, and it'll let you adjust to the sensation of cloth against your neck. This turtleneck, in particular, is made from 55 percent cotton, 25 percent modal, and 20 percent polyester. This make-up will ensure that you remain comfortable while also providing a close fit. You can readily wash this turtleneck with the rest of your clothes, as well, meaning that there's no need to invest in specialized cleaning products.
Most importantly, though, this black turtleneck - and others like it - is versatile. You can wear it on your own to embody the super-spy look. Alternatively, you can pair it with a white jacket to give off an inverted formal look. You can even pair it with a scarf for warmth and a bit of color.
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Chunky Knit Turtleneck
Chunky knits are in-fashion nowadays. It turns out, though, that you can use that knit for more than just classy sofa throws. This chunky knit turtleneck adds a unique pop to your wardrobe, allowing you the comfort of additional warmth on a cold winter day. This turtleneck is made out of a combination of polyester and spandex, meaning that its fit will be close, even as the silhouette embraces an open-sleeve look. You can wear this turtleneck into work, though we don't necessarily recommend pairing it with a blazer - the chunky knit is a stand-out feature that you don't want to hide.
When washing this turtleneck, though, that chunky knit may pose a problem. Be sure to wash this top in a laundry bag to keep it from shedding.
Calvin Klein Women's Turtleneck
Are you looking for a turtleneck that's a little fancier? Unlike some of the other previous turtlenecks, this black turtleneck from Calvin Klein rolls down over your neck, allowing for additional comfort as well as the class affiliation. Combine this feature with the 70 percent rayon, 21 percent nylon make, and this turtleneck becomes the ideal top to wear out on the town. Alternatively, you can pair this turtleneck with a jacket for a classy work look. Make sure to emphasize the logo bar so your friends and coworkers can see what brand you've been buying from.
You can wash this turtleneck with the rest of your clothes, and because of its make, you won't have to worry about it shrinking.
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Puffy Sleeve Turtleneck
In another variation on the silhouette, check out this puffy-sleeve turtleneck. The ride of the neck is lower, and it doesn't fold over itself. Instead, the stand-out feature here are the rippling shoulders. Made of polyester and spandex, this turtleneck will provide a close fit that flatters the body, even as it expands on the styles you'd normally keep in your closet.
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Relaxed Cotton Turtleneck
Let's get back to the basics, though. This relaxed cotton turtleneck from Lands' End doesn't rely on polyester or spandex to sell its worth. Instead, it emphasizes comfort. Made from 100 percent cotton, you'll be able to enjoy a gentle, broader fit when wearing this turtleneck to work. The length brings the turtleneck to about mid-hip.
You can find it and others like it through Amazon.
Silky Pullover Turtleneck
For a less traditional turtleneck, let's look at this silky black pullover. Made of 95 percent rayon and 5 percent spandex, this turtleneck will stick close to your body while offering you a silky touch. The neck itself doesn't naturally rollover, but there's enough fabric that you could alter the style as you chose. It's worth noting, though, that this specific brand of turtleneck runs small, so be sure to order up if you want to add this classic look to your wardrobe!
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Sequin Turtleneck
Your closet basics don't have to be boring. This sequinned turtleneck brings a bit of extra shine to your daily look. Made from 95 percent polyester, 5 elastane material, and 100 percent polyamide, this top is comfortable to the touch. None of the sequins that make up the gorgeous design will come in contact with your skin, ensuring your overall comfort. However, maintaining that design will require you to hand wash this turtleneck.
You can find this look and others like it through Amazon.
Leotard Turtleneck
Are you sick of your shirts riding up while you're at work? Well, you're in luck. Leotards burst onto the fashion scene in 2019, and it doesn't look like they're going anywhere yet. This leotard turtleneck marries the comfort of a leotard with the warmth of a turtleneck. Made from 90 percent nylon and 10 spandex, this is one top that'll look good on its own or paired with an over-jacket. Make sure to wash it in cold water, though, so it doesn't lose its size or shape!
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Vivi Turtleneck
Turtlenecks are sometimes accused of covering too much of the body. Not so here. This vivi black turtleneck takes fashion to a new level with a sharp cut into the shoulder. If you're looking for an entirely unique look, this is the turtleneck to go with.
This top is made from 40 percent polyester and fine ribbed knit. You'll want to wash it in cold water to keep it from shrinking.
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Eyelash Turtleneck
The texture on this black turtleneck really makes it stand out from the rest. Made from 65 percent nylon and 35 percent acrylic, this is another turtleneck that'll hug close to your body. The eyelash texture, though, makes it soft to the touch and interesting to the eye. Note that the texture makes this turtleneck difficult to wash with the rest of your clothes. You'll want to put it into a laundry bag or hand wash it to keep it in the best condition.
You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.
Loose Pullover Turtleneck
Made out of acrylic, you'll be able to wear this lightweight, black turtleneck to your next holiday party. Its loose make keeps it comfortable during long days, but its waffle style makes it ideal for office or party-wear. The cowl neck, too, adds a punch of style to this look. Be careful of the sleeves, though - their lantern style may make them difficult to manage while eating.
Note that this is a one-size-fits-all sweater, meaning that you will be able to take advantage of it without fretting about any one part sticking too closely to your body. You can find this turtleneck and others like it through Amazon.