Turtlenecks. You either love them or hate them, right? For me, they sort of remind me of my awkward third grade stage – a turtleneck (usually under a cable knit sweater), acid washed jeans paired with my big red Sally Jesse Rafael glasses. Let me tell you, it was pretty hot. And for many years I avoided the turtleneck because these pictures (posted on Instagram here) flashed in my mind. But leave it to J.Crew to make me rethink this style that just Won’t. Go. Away. Dare I say they are…. classic? Today, now that I’ve ditched the red glasses, turtlenecks have become a staple in my fall/winter wardrobe because of their versatility. Hear me out – you can wear them alone, as a blank canvas for layering AND to stretch your warmer weather wardrobe. Let’s take a fresh look at turtlenecks, shall we?

The Turtleneck, Alone

Easy enough, right? J.Crew has this slightly oversized, slightly swingy turtleneck that is bold enough to wear alone, but also a great layering piece. I’m a sucker for stripes – especially nautical ones. No magic formula here: Skinny jeans + booties + turtleneck (the awkward model pose is free – I don’t think I will ever get used to this part of my job *sigh*, but just work with me! I was told I need to smile more so here goes…)

Add a layer

 Sweater (old Anthro, but similar here, and this vest version is ahhhmazing)

 Dress it Up

Turtlenecks are easy enough to dress up – just pair with a skirt and boots and you set for, um let’s see… where would I wear this? Brunch sans kids, a bridal/baby shower – its a effortless daytime look, and makes wearing a skirt seem a little cozier and seasonal.

Turtleneck + Colorful Skirt (old J.Crew but this is similar and this is cute too) + Riding Boots

Stretch Your Wardrobe

My husband makes fun of this for me because he thinks it is obvious to add another layer when you are cold, but it doesn’t seem so obvious to me, ahem, to take a summer dress and wear it in the fall. And ding ding ding (!!!), that’s where the turtleneck comes into play – the tissue turtleneck to be more precise. This is the ultimate layering turtleneck because it is super thin and therefore does not add bulk when layering. IMHO everyone needs one in white and black (they are 25% off right now so why not just go for it). And now, I get more bang for my buck with summer pieces. #shoppingmath

Tissue Turtleneck (now on sale!) + Dress + Riding Boots + Bucket Bag (now on sale!)

Before you banish your summer tunics to the attic….

I wasn’t lying when I said you also need one in black. And if nothing else, at least maybe this post helps you think outside the box when you are staring in your closet and grumbling that you have nothing to wear. Sometimes a few staple items (yes, like turtlenecks) can help you to completely transform a look.

Tissue Turtleneck (now on sale!) + Tunic + Skinny Jeans + Booties

So what do you guys think? Are turtlenecks worth another try or did your outfits of yesteryear do permanent damage? And I’d love to see your turtleneck style! You did such a great job showing your #blanketscarflove on Instagram so let’s see some #turtlenecklove! Don’t forget to tag @sisterstosons (and please do follow me there if you’re not already!).

P.S. This weekend only, Anthropologie is having 20% off tops and sweaters with code: TOPITOFF – want three recommendations from the buyer? Here you go: Button Neck Turtleneck (for a different type of “neck interest”, Ribbed Henley (the perfect warm and cozy under layer), Swing Turtleneck (to wear with leggings)

P.P.S. Are you guys ready for gift guides?? They are in the works and coming soon! Can’t wait? Ok fine. Here is a stocking stuffer to hold you over. Everyone loves those, right?

P.P.P.S. The Nordstrom fall sale started today! Annnnd, it’s almost as good as the anniversary sale! Head on over here to see my picks!! Perfect time to get your holiday outfits in check – lots of fun boots, heels and bags at great prices!

Shopping Links to all the turtleneck goodness is right here: