Turtleneck Ideas

Dress your turtleneck up or down.

Turtleneck shirts have a thick layer of fabric that wraps around the neck. Modern-day versions of the classic style use lighter fabrics and additional decorations that break up the bulky and sometimes heavy appearance of the shirts. Turtleneck ideas offer new ways to wear the shirt. Bring in new accessories or opt for a shirt that includes some funky or unusual accents.

Layering Ideas

Opt for turtlenecks made from a lighter fabric such as cotton and layer it with other items. Wear a tight-fitting turtleneck and top it with a cropped vest. The shirts hug your curves and the lighter fabrics keep the look from overwhelming your frame. Choose similar shades for a monochromatic look that makes you appear smaller. For a more colorful and stylish look, pick a vest in a completely different color. You can also pair the turtleneck with a tight-fitting jacket or a cropped blazer for a stylish look that works for the office.

Funky Turtlenecks

Modern designers are adding new touches to turtlenecks that make the shirts more stylish. Mock turtlenecks use fabric folded over the neckline to mimic the look of a classic turtleneck, but without the heavy feel. For a night on the town, opt for one with a slit along the bustline. The slit lets just a touch of skin shine through for a sexy look that seems like it's showing more than it actually does. Turtlenecks with a scalloped edge or decorative trim is a simple way to dress up an otherwise basic shirt.

Play Up Your Face

The Chic Fashionista suggests picking accessories that work with the shape of your face and upper body. Pairing dangly earrings or a pendant necklace draws attention to your face and pulls the eye up. Turtlenecks have a tendency to emphasize and highlight a wide face or a round face. Dark colored turtlenecks without any decorations or patterns can hide a short neck by elongating the upper body.

Statement Pieces

When wearing a turtleneck, avoid wearing too many accessories. Pick just one piece that serves as a statement piece, such as a chunky choker that clings to your neck and the top of the shirt. For turtlenecks with short sleeves, wear just one large bracelet on one wrist. An oversize belt wrapped around your waist will emphasize your curves and provide a better fit. Try wearing a belt with a tight-fitting turtleneck to play up your natural shape.

References

• College Fashion: Would You Wear... a Turtleneck?
• The Chic Fashionista: Turtleneck Sweaters
• Fashionologie: Two Ways to Wear Your Statement Necklace Up Top