How to Look Cute in a Turtleneck

Actress Sharon Stone has frequently favored black turtleneck sweaters.

The turtleneck sweater is an iconic, versatile clothing item that can instantly pull together any look. It has been favored by women like Audrey Hepburn, who immortalized beatnik chic in her black turtleneck, Capri pants and ballet flats in "Funny Face." Sharon Stone made fashion headlines in 1996 when she paired a short-sleeved Gap turtleneck with a skirt by Valentino and an Armani jacket at the Academy Awards. With its long sleeves and dramatic, high neckline, resist the urge to pair a turtleneck with something frilly. Stick with close-fitting basics and bold accessories to create a signature turtleneck style.

Instructions

1. Choose a turtleneck made of high-quality material, ideally with a little bit of stretch. Cotton is best when combined with a small percentage of Spandex or Lycra. The stretchy fibers will help the turtleneck maintain its shape after repeated wearing and washing. For a luxurious touch, try a cashmere turtleneck. Choose a silk blend turtleneck to add a touch of slinky sophistication to your wardrobe.

2. Streamline the rest of your silhouette. A turtleneck gives you clean, sharp lines that are negated when you pair it with a voluminous, ruffled skirt. Your clothing does not have to been skin-tight, but the turtleneck looks its best when the rest of your clothing echoes the turtleneck's slim lines. Straight-leg trousers, boot-cut jeans, pencil and A-line skirts and well-tailored blazers all work well with turtlenecks.

3. Stick with basic black. A black turtleneck looks effortlessly chic when paired with jeans and knee-high boots or with black slacks, heels and a statement necklace. A monochromatic outfit also elongates and slims your figure. While white turtlenecks are a big trend for fall fashion at the time of publication, the slim fit of most tops will highlight and exaggerate even the smallest stomach roll. Colored turtlenecks don't have the same versatility of a black turtleneck sweater, which can easily transition from a casual ensemble to a dramatic evening look.

4. Keep your accessories bold and graphic. Dainty earrings and delicate chains are overwhelmed by the stark drama of a turtleneck. Large hoop earrings are the accessory of choice for fashionistas like Jennifer Lopez. Bold sunglasses like those favored by Jacqueline Kennedy give off a glamorous vibe, and chunky cocktail rings stand out against the bare simplicity of a turtleneck. A colorful scarf worn as a headband is the perfect finishing touch and can introduce a pop of color to your outfit.

References

• Marie Claire: Timeless Classics
• Glamour; Fall 2011 Trend to Start Wearing Now - White Turtlenecks; March 7, 2011
• The Gloss; Turtlenecks - Can't Live Without 'Em; Pascalle Castrange; October 23, 2007
• Life: Best Oscar Photos - the 1990s; March 25, 1996
• "The Classic Ten - The True Story of the Little Black Dress and Nine Other Fashion Favorites"; Nancy MacDonell Smith; 2003
• Stylelist; Styles that Stick - Black Turtleneck; Lauren Messiah; September 30, 2007