Turtlenecks are no longer just for emergency hickey-coverage. They've been upgraded in the fashion world to an actual wardrobe choice. Now, with their renewed status, turttlenecks are a perfect piece to ride out the rest of winter and transition into spring.
Turtlenecks are fairly versatile. There are collars that cover less than an inch on the neck, which are seen on a lot of short-sleeve sweaters. These are called "mock turtlenecks" and are especially good for experimenting with the look because they aren't too dramatic.
The turtleneck most people think of (and often cringe over) is the long neck that is folded in half. True, obsessive-compulsive fifth grade teachers wear these, and crazy aunts bring out reindeer-motif ones during Christmas. But there are actually more fashionable ways to wear them.
Many Web sites, such as styledash.com, point out that wearing a plain black turtleneck a la Audrey Hepburn means instant chic. This longer type of turtleneck can be more dangerous, so stay with solid colors or two-colored stripes.
Biology senior Jessica Giron says to avoid prints. "Stick to basic colors, nothing too bright," she says. "Black, gray and white are the best."
These can be worn by themselves with skinny jeans, or as a layering piece. "I usually use them for layering underneath short sleeve dresses in winter," says Shannon Damlos, a sales associate at the Divaz Boutique in Tempe Marketplace.
If folding it in half is too clean-cut, try leaving the neck unfolded and scrunched down. According to style advice site greatestlook.com, this "crushneck" look makes the turtleneck a bit more relaxed.
A third type of turtleneck is the floppier version. It too folds over, but is often seen on thicker knits and leaves space between the neck and the collar. There are very wide ones called cowl necks, which hang below the collarbone.
This type of turtleneck is easier to pair with other clothes such as skirts and regular width jeans. They are perfect in winter, and many stores have them as sweater dresses that can be paired with leggings.
Accessorizing can make a huge impact because the turtleneck itself is already a strong piece. The only types of necklaces that will work are longer ones, such as a long chain of wooden beads.
Kissa Field, co-manager at the accessory emporium For Love 21, says giant earrings are best since they will stand out the most. She also suggests finding jewelry in " '70s colors, like red, mustard or gold to wear with turtlenecks."
Stores like Wet Seal and Charlotte Russe have turtlenecks in almost all different styles ranging from $7.50 for a layering piece to $24.99 for a knit cowl neck sweater. Different sleeve styles are also an option. Many turtlenecks have pouf sleeves that add to the '70s vibe.
Reach the reporter at: amanda.fruzynski@asu.edu.
