A black turtleneck is one of my secret weapons for looking put together with minimal effort. It’s a closet essential that you can style a million ways for fall and winter.
But if you’re worried about that dreaded ’90s wrestler look, don’t be! I’m sharing some of my go-to outfit formulas that are cute, chic, and anything but dated.
1. Go a Few Sizes Up
For those days when you’re prioritizing comfort over everything, going for an oversized fit is the answer. I love this combo because it’s so versatile. You could totally rock this at the office or for a night out with friends.
The trousers give it a polished, work-appropriate vibe, but the boots make it feel more casual. And a pair of drop earrings? That’s the perfect finishing touch for a nighttime look.
2. Athleisure Black Turtleneck Outfit
When you’re all in on comfort and not thinking about a day to night transition, athleisure is always a good idea. It even has those little thumb holes which I love.
The shirt is so soft and perfect for literally anything from a workout class to just chilling at home.
3. Winter Black Turtleneck Dress Outfit
I have to tell you, I personally own two black turtleneck dresses and I wear them all the time when the weather cools off. They’re both long-sleeved.
One is a shorter style that hits just over my knees and has a cool cold-shoulder detail. The other is a ribbed midi dress that’s more fitted, with long sleeves and a little belt.
My go-to styling trick is to add some layered gold necklaces and pull my hair into a low bun to make my neck look longer.
4. With a Leather Skirt and a Pop of Color
There’s so much to love about this outfit. First, that cutout at the chest on the top is amazing and gives a décolleté effect. The leather skirt also adds dimension in a few different ways.
The material is different from the top, the hem is asymmetrical, and it has two buttons that gather the fabric at the waist. But don’t worry, a simple leather skirt would also look adorable.
5. Don’t Be Afraid of Layers
I know, I know, layering can sometimes feel like you’re going to get lost in your clothes. But trust me, that won’t happen if you do it right. This model nails it by wearing a long black trench coat with a short black dress.
You still see a lot of leg, so the look doesn’t overwhelm her frame. Another pro tip is to drape the coat over your shoulders instead of putting your arms all the way through.
6. Go Full Parisian With the ‘Fit
So, real Parisians might not actually walk around in berets and pleated skirts, but it’s the look that many of us associate with French style. I love how the model here uses a black beret to create a nice contrast with her fair skin.
The little details are worth noting too, like the belt, clutch, and watch. This is just the perfect fall outfit, especially with the stockings and knee-high boots.
7. With Minimal Accessories, Flare Pants, and a Ponytail
While I love patterned pants for adding dimension, a pair of black pants with a black turtleneck is just so chic. Tuck in your top and choose a flared style to create more of an hourglass shape.
I’d keep the whole look monochrome with black shoes, but you could also make a statement with white or snakeskin booties.
8. Casual Black Turtleneck Outfit
When I’m thinking casual, jeans are always my go-to. Now, I did say to be careful with jeans so you don’t get that wrestler vibe. But there’s definitely a stylish way to do it.
My suggestion is to go for a distressed, loose, or high-rise style with a flare at the bottom. And whatever you do, please don’t tuck in your shirt.
9. Aesthetic Black Turtleneck Outfit
A truly aesthetic outfit is all in the details, and Olivia Culpo is showing us how it’s done. The American model is wearing a top with gorgeous gold buttons running along the sleeve.
She’s tucked it into black denim and added a thin belt with a solid gold buckle. To finish the look, she has a black purse with a gold chain and black patent leather boots.
Those shiny boots are a great touch that adds both height and dimension.
10. Business Casual Black Turtleneck Outfit
Business casual is the perfect look for the office, an interview, or a meeting. For those times, I’d suggest pairing a short-sleeved black turtleneck with some khaki trousers.
Add a black belt with a gold buckle for an extra detail. A little word of advice: try to avoid a silver buckle here. It might clash with the warmer tone of the pants.
11. An Updo
Okay, hear me out on this one because I know it might sound a little different. When you’ve got a turtleneck on, especially a chunky one, it can make your neck look a bit shorter.
Pulling your hair up is a simple trick that totally opens up your face and gives you that length back. You don’t want your neck getting lost in your hair!
12. Patterned Pants
You know the look we’re trying to avoid here. A pair of light wash jeans can quickly steer you into that territory. That’s why I’m obsessed with patterned pants, especially a good plaid pair.
They’re a foolproof way to style a turtleneck. The prints give your whole look an extra something that I just love.
13. Pleated Skirts
If you want to add some texture, a pleated skirt is your new best friend. Pairing it with a black turtleneck is such a great move.
My personal tip is to pick a skirt with lots of smaller pleats instead of a few big ones. The bigger folds can sometimes look a little awkward and less flowy.