Women's Turtleneck Sweaters: Perfect for Refined and Feminine Looks

Women's turtleneck sweaters are a versatile, comfortable, and stylish piece of clothing, perfect for any occasion. Choose a turtleneck sweater based on your style and personal preferences, and discover how this item can elegantly and sophisticatedly transform your look. Depending on the color you choose and how you pair it, women's turtlenecks can really change the fate of an outfit: a memorable moment in cinema, for instance, is in the film “Working Girl,” where Sigourney Weaver judges Melanie Griffith's outfit as impeccable, except for the jewelry. A few adjustments are all it takes when it comes to women's turtleneck sweaters to perfect an outfit. A turtleneck can be made from a wide range of fabrics, from soft and lightweight options for spring and summer to heavier, warmer materials for autumn and winter. Additionally, the turtleneck is available in various styles, such as fitted or oversized, in solid colors or patterns. A turtleneck can be paired with many different clothing items, like cigarette pants, jeans, pleated skirts, or leather trousers. It can be worn with a pair of high boots for a sophisticated look, or with sneakers for a casual and comfortable outfit. Turtleneck sweaters are also a great choice for colder days, as the high neck provides extra protection and warmth. Furthermore, this type of sweater can easily be matched with a scarf or hat for an even trendier look.

Who Wears a Turtleneck?

The term "turtleneck" refers to a type of sweater with a neckline that reaches the base of the neck. The name comes from the French "col roulé," which means "rolled collar," and it was popularized in the fashion world in the 1950s. It is said that the name was coined in 1957 by the French designer Jules-François Crahay, who was working for the Belgian fashion house "La Maison Blanche." His idea was to create a new version of the turtleneck sweater that was more fitted to the body and had a soft and comfortable finish. To distinguish his creation from other turtleneck sweaters, Crahay decided to call his sweater "turtleneck," inspired by Dante Alighieri's famous poem, the Divine Comedy. Other sources suggest that the origin of the name can be traced to Federico Fellini's film “La Dolce Vita,” in which a character, the dandy Pierone played by Gio Staiano, wears a turtleneck sweater in a scene at a table outside on Via Veneto. The turtleneck "dolcevita" quickly became a fashion icon of the 20th century. In the 1960s, it was adopted by young rebels as a symbol of counter-culture, and in the following decades, it became a popular choice among celebrities like Andy Warhol, Ted Kennedy, and Carl Sagan. Today, "dolcevita" turtlenecks are still very popular and available in a wide range of styles and colors. They have become a versatile piece of clothing suitable for any occasion, from a casual look to an elegant outfit, ideal for adding a refined touch to women's attire.

Turtleneck, High Neck, Sweater? Whatever the Name, the Common Denominator is Style.

If you shy away from banality when it comes to style, a women's sweater with a raised neck can make a difference every day and can be an excellent alternative for winter days when you need extra protection against the cold (though a good scarf is always the optimal solution): wear it with high-waisted jeans and white sneakers for a feminine and contemporary look, or with cigarette pants and a blazer for a more elegant and refined look. If you want to be bolder and challenge conventions, draw inspiration from the iconic woods of North America and pair your turtleneck under a men's plaid shirt from Levi’s or under a Sacramento flannel shirt from Dickies in a women's version. Choose the color that best expresses your personality: the turtleneck sweater is available in a wide range, and all you have to do is pick it and pair it accordingly. Remember to choose the right size: the turtleneck should be fitted but not too tight, allowing for the right freedom of movement. Thanks to our size guide, you can confidently choose the right fit for you. And don’t forget accessories: a turtleneck pairs perfectly with a scarf or a winter hat for a cool and sophisticated look. Moreover, you can further enhance it with a nice high belt or a refined necklace, which will become the focal point of your outfit. For a casual and relaxed look, roll up the sleeves of your turtleneck and wear it with a pair of jeans and sneakers. Add a super slim long-sleeved t-shirt underneath the sweater and let the sleeves peek out. This way, you'll have an informal and interesting look that won’t go unnoticed.