On our weekly team Zoom calls, where we’re dialing in from all corners of the globe, you can almost guarantee at least one of us will log on sporting a turtleneck. A true chameleon piece for everyday life and travel, they’re a staple in our wardrobes three seasons per year. Turtlenecks easily dress up or down, go from the plane to a meeting to drinks, and manage to be universally flattering, warm without bulk, and polished no matter how long you’ve been in transit. We think of them in two camps: those that are thin and layerable, almost like a second skin, and those that are more substantial and feel like a bit of armor when you pull them on.
For a thin second skin
Uniqlo Turtleneck – The best pill-resistant cashmere you can get for under $100. It comes in a lineup of great neutrals and seasonal colors, and somehow manages to read more like The Row than Uniqlo.
Donni Baby Rib Turtleneck – Their cotton and modal blend is silky and has a nice weight that doesn’t feel insignificant on its own, or too chunky layered under something else.
Sezane Jacob Jumper – Not the typical fold-over neckline, but we love the button details and cozy merino wool composition on this one.
Nadaam Superfine Cashmere Turtleneck – Ultralightweight 1-ply cashmere that makes the case for turtlenecks practically all year round. It packs down to almost nothing, so it’s perfect for shoulder-season trips or layering under coats in the winter.
Intimissimmi Ultra-Light High Neck Top – The modal-cashmere blend here is warm yet so breathable, and because the modal is engineered for durability, it’s machine washable. It’s definitely on the sheer side, so it works best under another sweater or layer.
Issey Miyake Mock Neck – The one Steve Jobs famously wore every day.
Alex Eagle Classic Turtleneck – Made in the UK from fine merino wool with a structured rib knit that feels sleek but not flimsy. It’s substantial enough to wear on its own, but still streamlined to layer under a blazer without bunching up.
Samsoe Samsoe Dickey – Not a full sweater, a turtleneck dickey gives you the warmth and polish of a high neck without all the extra fabric. Ideal if you are tight on space or if you want to layer under something without overheating.
Scaglione Turtleneck – Italian brand Scaglione is known for their commitment to fine natural fibers, and this buttery-soft long fiber cashmere is no exception. It’s breathable, insulating, resistant to pilling, and worthy of some space in your carry on.
Alex Mill Merino Turtleneck – A well-priced merino option that hits the sweet spot between lightweight and durable. It layers nicely, and works just as well on a travel day as it does at dinner.
For a warm outer layer
Margaret Howell Wide Roll Neck – A bit spendier, but impeccably made from midweight cashmere that will last for years. The wide roll neck is one of her signatures that they make year after year and is a perennial favorite.
Johnstons of Elgin Classic Roll Neck – Leave it to the Scots to perfect the turtleneck. The balloon sleeves and ribbed cuffs on this sweater give it a more dressed-up look, even if it feels comfy enough to sleep in.
Banana Republic Relaxed Cashmere Turtleneck – A solid daily driver with relaxed shoulders and a roomy cut through the body. If you feel claustrophobic in a tight turtleneck, the funnel neck on this isn’t suffocating, but is still sturdy enough that it doesn’t reduce itself to a cowl.
Cos Chunky Cashmere Turtleneck – This is the kind of sweater that can inspire you to leave the house on even the bleakest winter days. The dense knit keeps blasts of cold air from filtering through, and you can really disappear into the mock neck if needed.
Ralph Lauren Wool-Cashmere Turtleneck – A classic heavyweight wool and cashmere blend that we could just as well picture ourselves wearing to meetings or chopping wood in.
Massimo Alba Turtleneck – Made from virgin wool and cashmere with wide ribbed finishes, this one has a longer torso that lands mid-hip and a dramatic collar that’s very elongating.
Colhays Ribbed Submariner – Technically a men’s sweater, but that’s part of the appeal. Inspired by the jumpers the British Royal Navy wore for over 100 years, this super thick 4-ply cashmere number is truly built like armor that will keep you warm, whether you’re traversing across the North Sea or just the North Fork.
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