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How to Wear a Turtleneck Like It's Not 1989

The layering staple is baaaaack

Turtlenecks can be tricky. On one hand they’re a super-warm no-brainer layering basic. On the other, they can be a slippery slope into awkward-’80s-holiday-card territory. That’s why we’ve culled the Interwebs to bring you the chicest ways to pull yours off through 2016.

Balance Proportions

Pair a tighter-fitting turtleneck with a fuller midi skirt to create a streamlined, ladylike silhouette. 

Get the look: J.Crew turtleneck ($85); ASOS skirt ($170)

Throw A Dress Over It

A few keys to this look: Make sure the dress has a high neckline, a roomy cut and a weighty fabric (wool, tweed, suede or leather is ideal).

Get the look: Uniqlo turtleneck ($15); Theory dress ($365)

double turtleneck
A Southern Drawl

Wear It Under Another Turtleneck

Double the turtleneck, double the fun. Take a fitted jersey guy (we love stripes to break up the layers) and top it off with a slouchy sweater. Scrunch up the top sweater’s sleeves and be everyone else’s outfit inspiration.

Get the look: Forever 21 striped turtleneck ($11); & Other Stories slouchy sweater ($95)


Layer It Under Even More Layers

Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you’re restricted to sweaters only. Keep it interesting by mixing colors and materials, like with this simple white turtleneck under a denim shirt (buttoned all the way to the top), under a sleek gray overcoat.

Get the look: ASOS turtleneck ($22); Topshop chambray shirt ($65); Pam & Gela car coat ($550)

Accessorize It

Another key to creating a modern silhouette? A skinny belt. Let a tissue-thin turtleneck peek out from beneath a belted double-breasted coat. And then cinch the whole thing.

Get the look: White House Black Market turtleneck ($40); James Jeans double-breasted coat ($321); Express belt ($30)

Go Chunky And Monochromatic

One color is always a good option. As long as the two pieces blend seamlessly together (and the turtleneck isn’t too clingy), you’re good.

Get the look: Madewell turtleneck ($98); Banana Republic skirt ($98)

turtleneck buttondown

Layer One Over A Button-down

And another option for your chunky joints. This torso-elongating look strikes a stylish balance between crisp and casual.

Get the look: Mango turtleneck ($70); Ann Taylor shirt ($80)


susan waits

Lousy baker, stellar shopping buddy

You can find Susan either blissfully buried in a pile of clothes or on a plane between L.A. and NYC.