Oh man, I love a turtleneck sweater. Wearing one feels like such a statement. You know people will notice it because they stand out so much when compared to a regular sweater.
I’ve had my favorite turtleneck for years, and it frequently makes an appearance in outfits on this site. It’s a real standout piece with a black and white knit pattern and a high neck. Despite its age, its quality and thickness mean it still looks great.
I also have a thinner navy cable knit one that frequently gets a runout. But I’m always on the lookout for more to add to my collection. I have my eye on a gray or brown wool one. This would be the type that I could dress up and wear or more formal occasions.
How to Wear a Turtleneck
Turtlenecks are really versatile. A chunky one looks great when paired casually with chinos or jeans and a pair of boots. But they also dress up really well; whether you just wear a lightweight wool one with a pair of smart pants, or go all out by layering it under a suit or blazer.
The fact they stand out so much could make you think that the only reason someone would wear a turtleneck is to peacock. But this couldn’t be further from the truth—turtlenecks are unbelievably practical when it gets cold. Nothing keeps you warm like wearing a thick turtleneck under a coat. You don’t even need to bother with a scarf.
How you wear yours will also depend on which of the many types of turtlenecks you buy. Thick wool ones will dominate any outfit you wear while keeping you warm on even the coldest days. Thinner wool and cotton ones are smarter and great for layering. Then there’s mock-turtlenecks (those with a shorter neck), zip-turtlenecks, and those in various types of knitted pattern.
What Pants go with a Turtleneck for Men?
You can wear turtlenecks with both casual and formal pants. They fuse with jeans and chinos effortlessly, and they make a crisp combo with formal pants too.
- You can choose a fitted turtleneck to go under a well-tailored suit jacket and streamlined pants for a smart, business-casual look.
- Conversely, you can choose a simple turtleneck to go with a pair of jeans for an everyday affair. Sporting a chunky turtleneck over jeans can take this look up a notch.
11 Warm Yet Stylish Men’s Turtleneck Outfits
1. Under a Denim Jacket
I love this combo because the light denim jacket goes really well with the color of the turtleneck. It’s a stylish casual look that is definitely a step above how it would look if the model wore a regular jacket. I also like the slightly shorter mock neck on the sweater.
2. With a Mac and Chelsea Boots
This monochrome outfit is a great smart-casual choice. I love the slim-line profile created by the black skinny jeans and the Chelsea boots combo. The long grey mac finishes the look off nicely and gives it a smarter look than if I wore a denim or leather jacket.
2. With Smart Pants and Boots
I love this black turtleneck outfit, especially the color-coordinated mask and socks. The model tucked the sweater into his pants which works because it is quite a slimline version of the style. The heavy boots contrast with the rest of the outfit and act as a stylish focal point.
3. Under a Wool Coat
Wool coats and turtlenecks are a classic combination. They are perhaps the best way to stay stylish and warm in winter. Throw on a scarf to finish the outfit. I especially the camel and black color combination in the outfit above, while the fine-wool sweater combines well with the smart wool coat.
4. As Part of a Black and White Outfit
I love the way the model in this photo uses the contrast between the black of the turtleneck and pants and the white of the jacket and sneakers. It’s a stylish casual outfit that you could wear again and again.
5. With a Blazer and Jeans
Pairing a blazer, turtleneck, and jeans is a classic smart casual way to dress. The outfit in the image works well as the navy of the jacket goes well with the grey turtleneck. Go for a looser fit for a modern take on the style.
6. Under a Shearling Jacket
If there’s one thing we’ve learned in this article, it’s that turtleneck sweaters go really well when worn under a jacket. The color combination of the shearling and the brown turtleneck in this outfit is especially pleasing to the eye.
7. With a Suit
Wearing a turtleneck under a suit or blazer is a classic look and a great way to stand out in office wear. Keep the colors muted like in the image above to ensure your outfit stays formal. When pairing these two items, be sure to wear a light turtleneck so that it doesn’t look too bulky under the blazer.
8- As Part Of A Monochrome Outfit
For a neat statement look, go with a monochromatic turtleneck outfit. Start by putting together a black fitted turtleneck with a pair of black pants. A pair of basic white sneakers will make this fit pop, but you can also wear black shoes if you wish to keep it subdued. Top the look off with a grey blazer for an overall tonal look or keep the monochrome combination with a matching black blazer.
9- Under a Bomber Jacket
For a relaxed and dressed-up fusion, go for a team-up of a simple turtleneck with black jeans. Jazz it up with a bright, patterned bomber jacket and make it look like you made an effort. Chuck on a pair of boots with the jeans to complete a comfortable yet stylish look.
10- Play down a Fancy Suit
Suits can come off as a bit too stuffy, at times. To bring down the highly formal appeal of a suit, the key is to introduce a casual clothing item in the fit. For instance, wearing a knitted turtleneck with a suit can make it less formal, making it appropriate for after-hours commitments without much effort.
11- With Blue Jeans
For a classic streetwear look, you can team up a black turtleneck with blue jeans and top it off with a denim jacket. Spice up the look with chunky sneakers or keep it lowkey with basic kicks.
