STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Shellebrating the Turtleneck

January 13th, 2016 at 2:00am

As we slide into 2016, sweaters of all colors and patterns will remain closet staples. But as we ring in the New Year one style in particular is refusing to be left in 2015.

Enter: The Turtleneck.

Let’s take a moment to address the elephant in the room. We’re not talking about the thick, cotton turtlenecks in a slew of pastels that your grandma used to wear while she baked chocolate chip cookies and played bridge. We’re talking sleek turtlenecks in yummy shades of bold orange, cozy burgundy and chic neutrals that will make you reconsider any neck-covered-prejudice you may hold. Whether it’s a ribbed long sleeve, a sleeveless crop top or a chunky sweater this trend is an absolute must have in any Fashionista’s 2016 wardrobe. If you don’t own a turtleneck your New Year’s resolution is to get one ASAP.

The versatility of a turtleneck is impossible to overstate. It pairs well with everything from a patterned A-line skirt over tights, to slim ankle pants and booties. It can be casual enough for class, but sophisticated enough for an internship. They are an absolute dream to layer with, so you can anticipate catching a glimpse of a turtleneck peeking out from underneath more than one wool peacoat or leather jacket on your campus this season. I’m stocking up my closet now, and you’ll do best to follow suit. If I get called grandma… so help me. Anyone who says they don’t enjoy having a cozy neck is not to be trusted in the first place.

This Fashionista caught my eye not only with her retro, baby-bell sleeve turtleneck but also with her flowing pants. Stay with me here team, we all know gaucho pants were the worst trend to plague 2005 (with fedoras coming in at a close second). However, these wide leg trousers are a far cry from the jersey, capri length monstrosities I owned in elementary school. The turtleneck combined with the high waist cut of the pants lengthen her, yet complement her curves in a bold way that screams “Boss Lady.” However, her playful crushed velvet flats keep the outfit from pushing business casual. Her classic leather watch, vintage ’80s earrings and matte sunglasses polish off the look with a mod vibe.

What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “If you’re unsure about how to incorporate turtlenecks into your daily wardrobe, try swapping in a black or gray one for some of your go-to tops. Then you can play around with more statement colors and textures. I love pairing them with a bold lip color or a cat eye when I’m going out!”

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