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Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.
The turtleneck is a closet essential. Like the T-shirt, it's available in countless shapes, prints, fabrics, and fits, making it one of the most versatile items you can have in your wardrobe. Of course, there's a good chance you already own at least one turtleneck—and if not, what are you waiting for? From basic black and white pullovers to oversized sweaters with slouchy necks, the limit doesn't really exist when it comes to building your assortment. This is why our list of the best turtlenecks will show you how the winter staple is not only the ultimate layering piece, but a stylish and cozy option you can also wear solo with jeans, trousers, skirts, and beyond. From the lightweight and layer-able to the baggy and statement styles, these are the must-have turtleneck tops and best sweaters you should stock up on ahead of winter 2022-2023.
Best Turtlenecks for Women
- Best Everyday Turtleneck: Aritzia Wilfred Cyprie Sweater
- Best Black Turtleneck: Everlane The Pima Micro-Rib Turtleneck
- Best Cashmere Turtleneck: Vince Cashmere Side Slit Turtleneck
- Best Oversized Turtleneck: Reformation Garrett Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck
- The Coziest Turtleneck Sweater: BLANKNYC Mica Sweater
- Best Turtleneck for Layering: GANNI Printed Mesh Turtleneck Top
With a natural roll neck and loose but not baggy fit, the everyday turtleneck is automatically the kind you reach for with jeans, slip skirts, trousers, and beyond. We highly recommend owning this silhouette in a few colors at least—your options are endless, as this Aritzia favorite comes in 14 shades. Made from super soft Embrace Merino, a wool yarn that Aritzia sources from a premium Italian mill, this turtleneck is the sartorial equivalent of an all-encompassing and yummy hug.
Pros: Under-$250; Made from 100-percent merino wool; 14 colorways; Size range runs from 2XS-2XL.
Cons: One reviewer reports the sweater having a slightly itchy feel.
A classic black turtleneck is the ultimate layering piece. And this Everlane option, according to several rave reviewers, is one of the best base layers to have in your winter 2023 wardrobe. One happy customer writes that it's "great for layering" and has become "a staple for cold winter days!" Consider styling this black turtleneck under a crisp white button-down, then tuck both into a pair of dark-wash jeans and slip on a pair of strappy Mary Jane shoes. Finish with an oversized wool blazer to complete the look for a casually sophisticated (and very warm!) turtleneck outfit.
Pros: Under $200; Made of a soft and stretch cotton fabric; Eight colorways; Offered in both Supima and Prima Cotton variations.
Cons: Some reviewers say it runs big and recommend sizing down.
Who doesn't swoon over cashmere? Vince does it best with timeless staples spun from super-soft fibers—like this relaxed-fit turtleneck that works with everything. This is an investment piece made of 100 percent pure cashmere (you, understandably, probably balked at the almost-$500 price tag at first) with timeless appeal that you'll be grateful to have in your closet. We recommend styling this cashmere sweater with easy pull-on silk trousers and your favorite pair of work sneakers for a casual yet polished in-office outfit.
Pros: 100-percent cashmere; Breezy side slits; Comfortable oversized design.
Cons: Over $200; Size range is only XXS-XL; Hand wash cold or dry clean only.
The Falconeri ribbed turtleneck is what I'd go so far as to call a perfect sweater. With a subtly sculpting ribbed design, the top's texture lends itself to a close but not overly clingy fit with a touch of spandex. It also comes in multiple colorways, including taupe, sky blue, and olive green, making it a versatile piece that will slot right into anyone's closet. Wear it on its own for slightly breezy days or, if the temps take a dip, throw on a boxy blazer or leather vest for added warmth.
Pros: Made of ultrafine 100-percent cashmere; Under $250; 13 colorways.
Cons: Size range is limited at XS-XL
If you see a well-dressed person in New York City clutching an oat milk latte, toggling back and forth between their email and Uber app, and wearing a neutral, form-fitting turtleneck, congratulations: You've spotted a style editor in the wild. As for what turtleneck top they're wearing, the odds are it's Wolford's Colorado Thong Bodysuit, as it's a fashion insider favorite. It's a warm yet seamless base layer for any outfit, whether yours is anchoring leather, denim, or silky separates. The soft stretch fabric and thong silhouette ensure a seamless tuck every time.
Pros: Comfortable seamless fit; Machine washable; Easy to layer and style.
Cons: $250; Runs small and reviewers recommend sizing up; Only offered in XS-L.
Reformation's slouchy wool turtleneck is a perfect example of a roomy, borrowed-from-the-boys fit that still offers some shape so your figure won't be wholly shrouded and invisible. Plus, it's a sustainable option you can add to your collection guilt-free: This sweater is fabricated from 90 percent recycled cashmere and 10 percent virgin wool, which, in total, has 87 percent less of a carbon impact than traditional cashmere in its production. And when it comes to styling, we love this oversized sweater best with other neutral pieces for a minimal, monochromatic look.
Pros: Made of sustainable, recycled cashmere wool; Comfortable oversized fit; 613 lbs. of carbon dioxide and 2 gal. of water savings in its production.
Cons: Over $250; Limited size range of XS-XL.
Ahoy! A classic mariner striped turtleneck, particularly one in white and navy, is a timeless addition to any wardrobe—even for those who don't typically gravitate toward preppy staples. Level up the luxe factor by opting for one in fine wool, like this slim-fit design by COS. This figure-hugging style is perfect as an as-needed pop of print. Case in point: Wearing this striped number underneath a baggy sweater in a neutral hue offers the perfect graphic punch to take an outfit from muted to bold.
Pros: Under $250; Machine washable; 100 percent Merino wool; 10 colorways.
Cons: Only offered from XS-L.
We're cropping everything this season, from short puffers to sultry cardigans to navel-grazing turtlenecks. H&M's midriff-baring sweater is one for you to add to your arsenal. One reviewer gushes, "great quality fabric! It fits just right [but] if you want a bit of a longer sleeve"—or to avoid the dreaded bra pee-a-boo when you raise your arms, which tends to happen in cropped tops—"size up once! Other than that, it's really cute." Try wearing this snug mock-neck style with a pair of high-waisted bottoms for perfect proportion play.
Pros: Under $250; Four colorways; Flirty cropped silhouette; Runs true to size.
Cons: Size range is only XXS-XL; Some reviewers say it's too cropped.
Find Me Now, a recently-launched New York-based label, has a knack for making contemporary basics you'll want to wear on repeat. Take its Ryder Crochet Top, for one. It takes the idea of a sleeveless turtleneck sweater and injects some edgy flair with its asymmetrical hem and open-tie back. Try this high-neck, shoulder-baring knit top layered over a mesh long-sleeve and styled with a pair of front-pleat trousers for a look that can take you from the office to a post-work cocktail (or two ... or three).
Pros: Made ethically in a women-owned and operated factory in China; Produced in a small, under-100 unit run; Unconventional and trendy look.
Cons: Runs small and sizing up is recommended; Sizing is limited and only offered in S/M and M/L.
This Ganni printed turtleneck is the perfect season-to-season transitional piece. You can wear the graphic style as is during the brisk fall months and then underneath your heavy-duty winter layers at the advent of the chillier season. The daytime outfit options are endless but if you're down for more of a challenge, wear it under your favorite slip dress for a nighttime look. Then, finish it off with a pair of trendy combat boots and a floor-sweeping duster coat, and you're good to head out the door.
Pros: Under $250; Made from recycled polyamide; Bold, eye-catching print; Body-hugging fit.
Cons: Partially lined; Only one colorway offered
Opt for an intarsia knit, like this roomy JOIE's turtleneck, for a handcrafted touch to your sweater repertoire. This option, in particular, nails the recent trend of '70s-inspired psychedelic style codes with its wavy zig-zag printe in a vibrant and saturated bright orange shade. Fun fact: The skilled intarsia technique ensures both sides of the patterned sweater are identical, so, if you're drawn to more of a distressed look, wear this sweater inside-out to have the unfinished seams on display.
Pros: Fits true to size; Under $250 due to The Outnet's sale; Statement look.
Cons: Size range is only XS-XL; Hand wash or dry clean only.
If you've ever wondered what to wear on a ski vacation, this graphic sweater is the ultimate, perfectly on-the-nose answer to your query. Whether you're hitting the slopes or are all about après ski activities (a.k.a. curling up on the lodge couch with hot cocoa and a freshly-checked-out book), Perfect Moment's Ski Sweater turtleneck is deserving of a stand-out moment in the winter spotlight. Pair yours with shearling-lined boots, fleece-lined leggings, and a furry bucket hat for a cozy-chic ensemble.
Pros: 100 percent wool; Statement graphic look; Slim-fitting silhouette.
Cons: Hand wash or dry clean only; Over $250.
During peak sweater weather with grin-and-bear-it temps, you're lying to yourself if you don't think a plush turtleneck, like this woven chenille design, is what really gets you through the cold. We all need a sweater that doubles as an emotional support blanket—and this option courtesy of BLANKNYC is exactly that. Featuring a swingy boxy fit, ribbed detailing, and an oversized cowl-like neck you can bury away in, it's flawless with a high-waisted skirt or denim trousers and your favorite boots.
Pros: Under $250; Easy-to-style neutral color
Cons: Size range is XS-L; Only one colorway offered.
With its lightweight mesh material, scrunched turtleneck, and comfy thumbholes, this high-tech turtleneck is a modern essential for gym rats and long-distance runners. It's made from Outdoor Voice's signature FastTrack Mesh fabric, an ingenious sweat-wicking textile, and is best suited for medium to high-sweat activities like jogging, incline hikes, and biking. Pair yours with sleek leggings and your favorite sneakers for a to-and-from workout ensemble. Or team this turtleneck with a cozy pair of sweats or joggers for more lounge-able, low-effort days.
Pros: Lightweight and breathable; Sweatwicking; Under $200; Reviewers say it's ideal for layering.
Cons: Size range is limited at XS-XL; Reviewers say it's more sheer than depicted in photos.
We love a peekaboo moment! In particular, we're partial to this ultra-cozy and slouchy PAIGE turtleneck with its asymmetrical front cut-out because it's high time you put your left clavicle and shoulder on full display for the world to see! With its incredibly ornate knit design and subtly sultry skin-baring details, this chunky cable-knit sweater is the ideal option to sport for a winter date night or an evening out to dinner with friends. Team it with form-fitting, leather trousers (maybe even dark-wash skinny jeans, if you dare!) and pointed-toe pumps.
Pros: Reviewers love its "subtle sexy" design; Oversized fit; comfy dropped shoulders.
Cons: Over $250; Size range is only XS-XL; Dry clean only; Made of 70 percent wool and 30 percent nylon.
This sheer mesh turtleneck from LVIR might not keep you warm in the winter, but the transparent look will turn up the heat when paired with sleek trousers and a full-coverage bra. Oh, and gather around fashion history buffs, both aspiring and those already at connoisseur status: Notice how the turtleneck's lettuce hems pay homage to American fashion designer Stephen Burrows, who invented and popularized the crinkly, warped detail during the 1970s. In short, this turtleneck allows you to tap into a groovy disco vibe, albeit in a manner that still feels refreshingly contemporary.
Pros: Under $250; Eye-catching lettuce hems; Easy to layer and style.
Cons: Made of 100 percent nylon; Only S-L offered.
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Emma Childs is the Style Editor at Marie Claire, where she researches up-and-coming trends, curates shopping guides, and gushes about the must-buy items she can't stop thinking about. She previously wrote for TZR, Editorialist, Elite Daily, and Mission Magazine and studied Fashion Studies and New Media at Fordham University. When she's not writing up fashion deep-dives or finding the season's best pieces, you'll find her fiddling around in Photoshop and perusing HBO Max for the next show to base her personality on (currently, it's "Succession").
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