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The Best Women’s Turtleneck

Last updated on January 9, 2023

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When it’s cold outside, the neck is one of the first areas we want to cover up. If you want to stay in fashion, there are two ways to do it: A long scarf or a cozy turtleneck sweater.

Yes, turtlenecks are most associated with winter, but you don’t have to wait for snow to wear the right one. Really, any sweater with a top that covers some or all of the neck is considered a turtleneck. That leaves a lot of wiggle room when it comes to material and style.

Ironically, people with longer necks will generally get the most benefit out of a classic turtleneck. The added material will both cover up and accentuate that feature, while providing warmth to a sensitive area. Classic turtlenecks don’t have thicker material in the neck area, but they will go all the way up to just under the chin.

That’s not to say that you should avoid this kind of sweater if you have a shorter neck. Mock turtlenecks (also known as funnel turtlenecks) have a top that ends about halfway up the neck area, giving it a more subtle look. That collar may be tight or loose, but either way it gives you more flexibility when it comes to layering.

If you’ve got a smaller bust and/or a heart-shaped face, cowl turtlenecks can be a very complementary look. These sweaters still have plenty of material around the collar, but it’s much baggier, in many cases resembling a scarf. Most of the time, these sweaters will classify as pullovers that you can either rock solo or throw on over a thin, fitted shirt. Either way, you’ve got a casual top that’s perfect for winter.

Aside from these basic styles, there are a lot of variations. Almost everybody has a knit turtleneck that doubles up the fabric around the neck, and while this shirt can be super-cozy, it’s usually too warm for any other season but winter. Zippered turtlenecks only cover the neck when fully zipped up, making them a little more versatile.

If you plan on getting the most out of your turtleneck, you’ll need to think about more than just the collar. The material will determine if your top will keep you insulated in the colder months, or if you’re able to wear it in the spring (or even summer). Wool is definitely the fabric most associated with this kind of sweater, and by far the warmest. There’s nothing quite like the cozy hug of a wool turtleneck if you’re out in the snow, and it can repel quite a bit of moisture if it’s well made. Just keep in mind that it won’t absorb much moisture from the inside, either — which means that if you start sweating, you’ll really sweat.

If you’re looking for a less bulky turtleneck, you might one made from simple cotton or a cotton / polyester blend. The latter will be a little easier to wash, and both will still give you a nice, soft feel. If you’re willing to spend a little more, you can get a more eco-friendly sweater made from viscose or modal. Of these two semi-synthetic fabrics, modal has a slight advantage when it comes to durability.

Our Picks For The Top Women's Turtlenecks

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Amazon Essentials Lightweight Easy Movement Women’s Turtleneck

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Amazon Essentials

Lightweight Easy Movement Women's Turtleneck

Thanks to the lightweight fabric, this is one sweater that won't make you sweat. It's great on it's own or under a jacket or scarf in colder weather. The cozy fit around the neck is flattering for a range of body types.

Overall Take

Good For LayeringSoft but flexible fabric makes this a great everyday top.

 Runner Up

ZESICA Batwing Sleeve Knit Acrylic Women’s Turtleneck

ZESICA

Batwing Sleeve Knit Acrylic Women's Turtleneck

Throw this sweater on for that cozy blanket feel. The fit is loose both on the sleeves and neck, but the acrylic material is soft enough to keep you warm in any climate. The longer cut makes it a great pairing with your favorite pair of jeans.

Overall Take

Loose, Baggy StyleSnuggle up in this knitted pullover.

 We Also Like

Herou Slim Fit Modal Women’s Turtleneck

Herou

Slim Fit Modal Women's Turtleneck

This sweater is snug in all the right places. The stretchy modal fabric feels great and holds up well even after multiple washings. It's very wrinkle-resistant and doesn't shrink easily.

Overall Take

Soft and SlimmingCover up and show off in this form-fitting sweater.

 Strong Contender

Lands’ End Tailored Fit Lightweight Women’s Turtleneck

Lands' End

Tailored Fit Lightweight Women's Turtleneck

You can take your pick of playful patterns when you order this top. The material is very soft and the slightly loose fit around the neck lets you keep things breezy. When the temperature drops, it's the ideal thing to wear with a vest or light jacket.

Overall Take

Fun Fitted PrintsA slightly looser fit around the neckline makes this a go-to casual sweater.

What to Look For

Let’s say you have a fitted turtleneck that feels great, matches your jacket and highlights your facial features. The problem? If you have a larger bust, it might accentuate that as well. That’s a common issue with tighter sweaters of any kind, but luckily there’s a simple solution: Leave it untucked. A few more inches at the bottom will create the impression of a longer torso and a slimmer profile.

More to Explore

Many of us have heard the old saw that we lose most of our body heat through the head. With that in mind, wearing a turtleneck and hat isn’t just cozy — it’s backed up by science. Right?

Unfortunately, that bit of motherly advice doesn’t hold up to scrutiny. Internal medicine professionals have long ago busted the myth that we shed any more heat through our head (or neck) than we do any other part of our body. Heat loss from the head is probably more like 10%, and while it can feel like a lot more if you go hatless in the snow, let’s face it: Any bare body part is going to feel chilly when the thermostat drops.

More to explore