To me, turtlenecks are the 90s in physical form. Therefore, it is no surprise that they will be the hottest neckline in 2023 however, this go around, turtlenecks aren’t a bit player worn just to stay warm, they’re the focus of the look.
Let’s let the past help inform the future! In 1990-whatever I was not allowed to leave the house without a turtleneck and I hated it. It wrecked my Halloween costumes, not to mention, made me sweaty when worn under long sleeve Christmas dresses. 90s guys wore virtually the same exact turtlenecks as girls just on their own though, with nothing layered on top. Men’s turtlenecks were tucked into straight-leg denim, always belted. This doesn’t sound like a bad look on paper but the tight cotton/spandex blend either exposed all your rolls or made you wither away into nothing. This was tragic in a time where we thought the “perfect body existed.”
It only took fashion wigs 30 years but, man did they tailor ‘em good this time. Turtlenecks are a garment that has always tilted towards unisex which will continue to be a major theme in 2023 runways. When shopping for your ideal turtleneck checkout the details of the garment. If you want a more traditional solid black knit number with a button cuff - go for it. I like making my core pieces like turtlenecks a little more challenging in bold colors, patchwork effects, frilled edges, or mixed media, like mesh. Regardless of which style of turtleneck you choose, let the high neck poke out beneath any flat laying collars like a crisp denim or leather jacket.
Sleeveless turtlenecks are a new iteration because they are seen as harder to wear. Here’s your instruction manual: 1. Select chunky cable knit turtleneck vest in the color of your choosing. (I’m probably going camel.) 2. Layer le vest over a loose fitting white long sleeve crew neck. (Balloon sleeves are a fun added detail and easy for those who aren’t big accessorizors! I made up that word, haha.) The key difference between this and the 90s way is under this school of thought, the turtleneck actually goes over not under. Let that sink in.
An easy way to go tieless (A huge goal for young people these days!) without getting flack for it, is to wear your looser jersey knit turtleneck with a plaid or herringbone blazer on top. This is a popular winter office look as well, since a soft knit turtleneck adds coziness in a way a stern button down could never. Add a long gold chain or two for max drip.
The turtleneck silhouette look is not just for shirts. A turtleneck under a belted sleeveless corduroy dress means the classic jumper look is back for a redo! Sweater dresses always have a resurgence this time of year. The 2023 edition is sold as a two piece set! A tank top turtleneck dress in a soft neutral (that lives beyond Christmas) like light gray or baby pink, with a matching cardigan on top is much bang for your buck!
Turtlenecks are often considered a more conservative garment since they provide full coverage. 2023 wants to change that with details like cold shoulders or peek-a-boo elbow slits that are perfect for an evening out. A gaping hole beneath the turtleneck and above chestline is flattering and fun!
When core pieces launch into the forefront of fashion the creative possibilities are endless. I am forever grateful.
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