Why Every Wardrobe Needs a Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
In a world where trends come and go, finding pieces that feel effortlessly chic, timeless, and practical can be a challenge. You want a wardrobe that is elevated, feminine, and versatile, without the need to constantly shop every new style. That’s where the classic cashmere turtleneck sweater comes in: a true winter wardrobe staple.
There is nothing cozier then a classic cashmere turtleneck in the heart of winter. On chilly days when you would rather stay in, putting on a cashmere turtleneck is the ultimate luxury. Cashmere is my winter fabric of choice not only because it is so elegant, but also because it is so warm. It feels good against your skin and acts as a nice warm layer.
The versatility of a cashmere turtleneck sweater makes it essential for any a winter wardrobe. Whether you keep it casual by pairing it with jeans and ankle boots, or dress it up with a satin skirt and knee high boots, investing in a high-quality cashmere turtleneck will help you elevate your everyday looks.
Why Every Wardrobe Needs a Classic Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
There’s a reason the turtleneck sweater has been a wardrobe staple for decades. It’s the epitome of timeless style. Its clean lines make it understated, elegant and so versatile. You can style it so may ways throughout different seasons. In addition to being a cozy winter layer, a classic turtleneck can be paired with shorts on a chilly summer night. Think of it as a foundation piece to your classic wardrobe.
My daughter and I have watched countless Audrey Hepburn movies together. It’s kind of “our thing”. One of my favorite style moments is Audrey’s dance scene in Funny Face, set in a Parisian nightclub. Her sleek black turtleneck, straight-leg pants, and loafers still look so fresh and modern today. It’s proof that a truly classic outfit never goes out of style.
How To Choose the Perfect Cashmere Turtleneck
The world of cashmere is huge. There are so many price ranges available, you may wonder if it’s worth the splurge. While different qualities of cashmere exist, each one I’m recommending is high quality and warm, regardless of price. And no, you don’t necessarily need to spend a lot on a good cashmere item.
So what do you look for? First, cashmere comes in different grades. Look for grade A cashmere, or Monogolian cashmere. It’s the highest quality you can get. Second, look at the ply count (not every site will list this). Ply refers to how many cashmere yarns are twisted together to make a thread. Lastly gauge is another factor to look at. Gauge is the number of stitches per inch, and will determine how thick the sweater is. The higher the gauge, the warmer the sweater will be.
I wouldn’t worry too much about these details though. I’m sharing only high-quality brands in every price range.
Best Brands for Cashmere Turtlenecks
If you are not interested in researching the fibers and grades of various cashmere brands, I don’t blame you! The following brands are all tried and true great pieces.
Quince– Amazing quality at a great price-point! It’s my go-to for all things cashmere. You can read more about the brand in my Quince review post.
Everlane– Another solid choice for cashmere turtleneck sweaters. If I’m being picky though, the Quince cashmere is much softer and a little more luxe feeling.
Naadam– Naadam offers different levels of cashmere from signature all the way up to luxe. The differences are in the gauge and the price. I do love how they offer thicker, higher gauge sweaters, and thinner, lower gauges. Depending on how cold it gets where you live, you can choose the the 12-gauge signature cashmere, the 7-gauge lightweight cashmere, or the super luxe 5 gauge.
La Ligne– Founded by former Vogue editors, this cool-girl brand has the softest sweaters! My favorite from them is actually not a turtleneck but is this cashmere sweater. Ultra soft and comfortable.
Jenni Kayne– Known for lofty oversized sweaters. When you’re feeling a little more luxe, Jenni Kayne has some really beautiful cashmere pieces. They are pricey but have some beautiful unique styles.
Effortless Ways To Style a Turtleneck Sweater
Elevated Workwear Outfit
I love how chic a pair of high-waisted pants looks with a cashmere turtleneck sweater tucked into it. This makes a great office ready outfit for both business and business casual settings. For winter, I’ve opted to wear these ankle boots, however this could also be styled with my favorite leather loafers, or classic ballet flats for equally classy looks.
What I love about this turtleneck I’m wearing is that it’s featherweight. While it’s light, it’s still incredible warm but without the unnecessary bulk. It’s an easy one to tuck into a pair of pants, jeans, or a skirt. Plus it’s under $80!
Style it with basic black pants, like the ones I’m wearing, and these shoes (swipe left if you’re on your phone):
Styling A Cashmere Turtleneck with a Midi Skirt
Here’s a great example of why every wardrobe needs a cashmere turtleneck sweater. They look so effortless when styled with a midi skirt (like this pleated skirt) and knee high boots. You can go two ways with this look and I love them both. Go for the tuck- this lightweight turtleneck is super warm and cozy, but thin enough to tuck into the skirt without creating a bulge. Alternatively, you can wear a chunky turtleneck sweater and leave it untucked for an effortlessly classy look. Both ways are a win!
Layering a Turtleneck Under a Coat
A cashmere turtleneck can make an outfit feel upscale with minimal effort. Whether you pair it with jeans for an easy, polished look or style it with a matching skirt and a classic camel coat, it offers a cozy solution for chilly days. The higher neck of the turtleneck, or mock neck, adds extra coverage and warmth. It’s an effortlessly chic combination that feels timeless and put-together.
Casual Weekend Look
A simple way to look polished on casual weekends is by pairing a cashmere turtleneck sweater with your favorite jeans. This combination strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style, making it ideal for everything from running errands to meeting friends for coffee. When the weather is cold, layer a classic coat on top and finish the look with ankle boots for an effortlessly chic vibe.
Chic Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Alternatives
For those of you sensitive to cashmere (I’m so sorry!), look for cotton turtlenecks and nylon-blend turtlenecks that will give you the same chic vibe. If you can stand to wear wool, this wool and cotton blend turtleneck is a cozy choice.
A cashmere turtleneck sweater isn’t just a seasonal staple- it’s a timeless investment that blends style, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re dressing it up with a midi skirt, layering it under a coat, or keeping it casual with jeans, this wardrobe essential effortlessly adapts to any occasion.
Explore my favorite cashmere turtleneck picks below, and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more timeless style inspiration straight to your inbox!
Looking for more effortless outfit ideas? Check out my post on winter outfits you can put together in minutes. You may also enjoy reading my post on elegant winter coats that never go out of style!