The Turtleneck That Instantly Elevates My Look From Boring to Parisian-Girl Chic

“I’m just a turtleneck kind of a gal.” —Diane Keaton in 'Something’s Gotta Give'

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing a turtleneck in two different photos
(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

The turtleneck is less a trend and more a personality type. And if it’s good enough for Diane Keaton, Nancy Meyers, and the entire canon of women who dress like they read hardcovers and own excellent cookware, it's certainly good enough for me.

I’ve always had a soft spot for a cashmere turtleneck—the kind that feels like a warm, elegant hug—but recently, I’ve fallen hard for Toteme's high-neck sweaters in particular. They strike that elusive balance between polish and ease: they're tailored without being stiff, minimal without feeling boring. This is not a sweater that asks questions or demands styling theatrics. It simply shows up and does the work.

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing a turtleneck with her mom

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

On days when inspiration is running low and my closet feels inexplicably hostile, this turtleneck is my quiet hero. I throw it on, and suddenly the outfit makes sense. Jeans look intentional. Trousers look chic. Even my posture improves slightly—placebo effect, perhaps, but I’ll take it. It’s the kind of wardrobe staple that elevates everything around it, lending an air of calm competence, as if I have somewhere important to be (even when I don’t). In short, this is the turtleneck that makes me feel like my life is marginally more together than it actually is—and honestly, that’s the highest praise I can give a sweater.

Outfit 1

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing a turtleneck sweater and standing in front of a fireplace

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

From day to night, I’ll throw off my loafers and put on a pair of leopard heels to formalize the look.

Outfit 2

Brooke Ely Danielson standing in front of a mirror wearing a turtleneck, jeans, and a coat

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

It layers so well with utility jackets, blazers, and even faux fur.

Outfit 3

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing sneakers, leggings, and an umbrella with her turtleneck

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

I literally wear this from the gym sometimes.

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Brooke Ely Danielson
Contributing Editor

Brooke has held editorial positions at Shape, Glamour, and Vogue, as well as contributed to In Style, Well + Good, Mind Body Green and Aspen Magazine. Brooke has also consulted for several brands, including Aztech Mountain and Tory Burch. Brooke has also made on-air appearances on the TODAY show, Fox5 among other media outlets while in her role as the Fashion & Lifestyle Director at Shape magazine. She runs the Substack 12 Seeds.