The art of layering with turtlenecks

Mastering the art of layering is one of the greatest assets one can have, a skill that sets the stylish apart from the rest. 

And speaking of layering, there is a particular base layer that needs our full attention: the turtleneck top. Whether it’s the timeless jersey turtleneck or a luxe activewear half-zip top, this resourceful staple lends itself to the smart styling trick of layering, emerging as a versatile and effortlessly cool option to have as one of the building blocks of our wardrobe.

The key to nailing this layered look lies in investing in super-fine, quality fabrics. Soft-stretch lyocell and light wool not only provide the necessary warmth for a cold winter’s day but also offer a luxurious feel against the skin. These materials ensure that your ensemble feels as good as it looks.

To infuse a touch of chic into your cool style, opt for a winning colour palette when selecting elevated base layers. Choose neutrals ranging from sandy tones to various shades of grey and brown, and, of course, black.

Here are the most on-point pieces I found so far.

Varley

£ 90

James Perse

£ 250

COS

£ 85

Courrèges

£ 320

Brunello Cucinelli

£ 1,650

H&M

£ 37.99

Falke

£ 125

Tove

£ 275

COS

£ 45

Agolde

£ 190

Mango

£ 29.99

Arch4

£ 350

Now to the fun part: styling. For an effortlessly chic look, pair the classic turtleneck with crisp shirts and oversized tailoring. The snug neck combined with the structured lines of a blazer and wide-leg tailored trousers creates an ensemble that exudes confidence and refinement, suitable for various occasions.

Enter the realm of activewear with the half-zip base layer, introducing a sporty edge to layering. The sleek design and functionality make these pieces dynamic additions to any wardrobe. Elevate your athleisure game by combining a luxe turtleneck with hoodies, light-knit polo sweaters, or other high-end sweatshirts – effortlessly merging comfort with a fashion-forward aesthetic.

Whether aiming for a polished, sophisticated look or a laid-back athleisure vibe, investing in high-quality fabrics ensures turning heads with every ensemble. Embrace the allure of the turtleneck, experiment with layering, and elevate your style to new heights.

Here are a few smart ways to style your favourite turtlenecks that may inspire you while practising the layering game.

Tailoring

for the city gal

Embrace high-low fashion with this city-chic ensemble. Begin with a half-zip stretch top beneath a boxy blazer, daring to surprise with a tailored long skirt. Keep the balance of tailoring and athleisure with sporty trainers, a practical shoulder bag, and a minimal hat for that perfect urban flair.

Tailoring for

the city gal

Embrace high-low fashion with this city-chic ensemble. Begin with a half-zip stretch top beneath a boxy blazer, daring to surprise with a tailored long skirt. Keep the balance of tailoring and athleisure with sporty trainers, a practical shoulder bag, and a minimal hat for that perfect urban flair.

COS

£ 85

Róhe

£ 540

Brunello Cucinelli

£ 1,100

Asics

£ 165

Prada

£ 2,162

Isabel Marant

£ 150

Isabel Marant

£ 150

Prada

£ 2,162

Office wear

reimagined

Pairing a soft, jersey polo neck with an oversized shirt, wide-leg tailored trousers, and a modern blazer will give the perfect fusion of classic and contemporary elements creating a fashion-forward statement that embraces the best of both worlds. The result is all the chic of a spring look, with enough warmth to combat a cold winter’s day.

Agolde

£ 190

Matteau

£ 403

Róhe

£ 620

Wardrobe.NYC

£ 845

Le Monde Beryl

£ 435

Sophie Buhai

£ 470

Sophie Buhai

£ 470

Le Monde Beryl

£ 435

Athleisure

2.0

Redefine sportswear with unexpected pairings in this elevated look. A light wool turtleneck lays the foundation, paired effortlessly under a luxe hoodie and modern sweatpants. Elevate the entire ensemble with a stylish coat, a leather tote bag, and edgy heels for a sporty yet sophisticated vibe.

The Attico

£ 800

COS

£ 45

Entire Studios

£ 150

Jacquemus

£ 1,125

COS

£ 135

Acne Studios

£ 1,400

Acne Studios

£ 1,400

COS

£ 135

The modern

minimalist

Monochrome sophistication comes alive in this modern minimalist outfit. A ribbed wool turtleneck seamlessly blends with a classic polo sweater. Elevate the look further with a long straight-cut skirt, chic kitten heel boots, and minimalistic accessories, proving that monochrome can be anything but boring when textures and layers take center stage.

Arch4

£ 350

The Row

£ 760

The Frankie Shop

£ 237.60

Jil Sander

£ 1,130

Savette

£ 1,235

Loren Stewart

£ 190

Savette

£ 1,235

Loren Stewart

£ 190

Double layer?

Double zipper!

Explore the dual features of athleisure with this playful ensemble. Layer a half-zip funnel neck sweatshirt over a turtleneck top, both boasting the same fastening feature for an edgy twist. Complete the look with relaxed, oversized jeans, smart trainers, and a spacious tote bag – a perfect blend of comfort and style for an effortlessly cool aesthetic.

Brunello Cucinelli

£ 1,650

Lululemon

£ 108

Falke

£ 125

Raey

£ 1,295

Adidas Originals

£ 90

The Row

£ 1,570

Adidas Originals

£ 90

The Row

£ 1,570

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