We all have those days where a turtleneck feels a little too same-old, same-old. If you’ve ever looked at yours and wondered how to make it feel new again, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to freshen up this old basic.
Try these seven turtleneck style tricks on for size – they’re sure to give your favorite sweater a new life this long, cold winter.
Turtleneck sweater and blazer
Wearing a turtleneck always looks polished, whether you’re headed to the office or meeting up with friends for drinks. You can customize this combo to suit the occasion, too. For work, opt for a structured, fitted blazer. For casual dates, reach for the soft shell blazer that follows your shoulder lines more softly.
Turtleneck sweater under a dress
Here’s the thing: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your dresses should hibernate. Layering a turtleneck under your favorite summer or sleeveless dress is an easy way to extend its wear into colder months.
A-line and slip dresses work especially well, and adding tights plus ankle boots will tie everything together. This is a practical and warm ensemble with a chic, layered vibe.
Read next: How to winterize summer clothes: 4 fun strategies
Tucked into wide-legged jeans
Wide-legged jeans are having a moment, and they pair perfectly with a slim turtleneck. Tuck the sweater in to show off your waist and let the jeans do the rest. This is the kind of outfit that feels casual but still has that “I put some effort in” look.
Add sneakers on casual days or ankle boots if you want to make a more upscale impression. Finish with a belt, which can be muted or bold, depending on your mood.
Turtleneck with a midi skirt
When you want something that’s feminine and comfortable, try a turtleneck and a midi skirt. This is another combo that you can customize to your mood or the occasion. A skirt with a fun print or pleats take the stage in a quirky, lively outfit. Or, you can keep things classic with a skirt that’s the same color as your sweater.
Either outfit can be anchored with sneakers, flats, or boots.
Turtleneck with a pencil skirt
The pencil skirt embodies passive-aggressive sex appeal. It shows off your figure in an enticing way – but you can still wear it to work, assuming you can ignore some extra attention.
Add a turtleneck sweater to the mix and you take things to another level. Take care not to go too tight with the sweater or you risk attracting too many eyeballs. Tuck the sweater in for a polished look or leave it out for something more relaxed. Heels complete the outfit.
This look is one you can take from work to date night. Add a blazer over the top if you need to tone things down for your co-workers.
Layered under a vest
Vests are an overlooked layering piece. They often pop up in the feeds in the fall, but they’re useful nearly all year. Make yours work harder by pairing it with a turtleneck sweater in winter. A sleeker turtleneck usually works better, as it won’t be too bulky.
Go sporty with a quilted vest or cozy with a knit one. Finish your outfit with straight-leg denim.
Turtleneck sweater with shorts and tights
Yes, shorts in winter – it’s a thing. Pair tailored shorts with a turtleneck and opaque tights for a look that’s playful but totally practical. Add loafers or ankle boots to complete the outfit. This is another hack for getting more mileage out of your wardrobe – especially if you have those “fancy shorts” that you don’t wear enough. Trust me, it works.
No more boring turtlenecks
Turtlenecks don’t have to be boring or predictable. Mix things up and stretch your style chops by dressing up your turtleneck sweaters or layering them with off-season pieces. Get creative and have fun with it. If you snap an outfit pic and share it to your socials, tag budget.fashionista so we can give you some online love!
