(Fashion)

This One Crucial Piece Can Transform Your Fall Style

by Tanisha Pina

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: Oct. 8, 2019

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Fall is associated with crisp, chilly air, big chunky sweaters, and hot, seasonally flavored lattes. But, the reality of the season is that it still feels like summer well into October in most regions of the U.S. It's ideal if you're not quite ready to let the warm weather go, but for those who can't wait to break out their proper fall wardrobe, it can be a bit of a drag. Thankfully, one of this season's biggest trends satisfies both the wants and the realities of early autumn dressing. Master how to style a barely there, fitted turtleneck, and you're good to go.

Unlike the knits and cotton styles that have been popular since well, forever, these second-skin turtlenecks are typically sheer, made of lightweight mesh or ultra-thin stretch-jersey fabrics that make for the seemingly perfect transitional and layering pieces. And because they are such an easy-to-wear staple, styling the tops is a no-brainer, whether you opt to tuck into a high-waisted vintage pair of denim, layer seamlessly under a slip dress, or temper the semi-sheer finish by layering it over a camisole, there's no going wrong.

Possibly the most interesting part about the trend is how much fun brands are having churning them out. Nine times out of 10, when you spot one of these thin, close-cut turtlenecks out in the wild, they'll be covered in a bold, all-over pattern or print. In a transitional time in fashion where all of the blatant logo-mania is dwindling down, brands are opting more and more for easily recognizable original patterns, like Marine Serre's now infamous crescent moon, or Nanushka's moody animal prints.

Ahead you'll find a few styling ideas along with piece to shop from a handful of fall 2019's very best second-skin turtleneck contenders, ranging from Prabal Gurung to Aritzia.

All About Layers

A sheer top makes for an ideal top layer, allowing a pop of color or clashing print to show up underneath. Also, if you don't mind showing off your favorite bra, this top makes for an ideal styling partner.

Nanushka

Madi Snake-Print Stretch-Jersey Turtleneck Top

$285

Nanushka's fall 2019 collection was defined by a warm, neutral palette and bold, playful animal prints — like this snake-print top. With its soft browns, creams and subtle orange hues, you can basically consider this pick a neutral.

Ganni

Printed Mesh Turtleneck

$125

Ganni carries on its all-over, blooming floral motifs with this versatile top, playing up the best moody blues and greens of the season.

Keep It Simple

Use a fitted turtleneck as part of a streamlined look for those days you just want getting dressed to be easy. Pick one hue and sport it from head to toe.

Frances de Lourdes

Lucie Slub Cashmere and Silk-Blend Turtleneck

$340

Prefer a neutral? Don't worry, those exist too. Made of a cashmere and silk blend, this chic navy top from Frances de Lourdes makes a softer statement, but a statement nonetheless.

A.W.A.K.E

Cut-Out Turtleneck

$335

Want to fully switch things up? This contrasting cream and black turtleneck from A.W.A.K.E. features a show-stopping, albeit tasteful, cut-out over the chest.

Change Of Mood

Layer a fitted turtleneck under a skip dress to give it an entirely new feel. Play with pieces in the same color palette to keep the ensemble from feeling too busy.

Asai

Sheer Tie-Dye Stretch Top

$343

Dev Hynes, Jorja Smith, Aleali May have been spotted wearing young designer Asai's break-out piece top made of panelled sheer fabric, dipped in electric color and connected by curly, contrasting hems. It's playful, infectious and a sure leader of the trend.

Kenzo

Printed Stretch-Jersey Turtleneck Top

$240

The psychedelic swirls (or abstract waves if you're not quite ready to let summer go) were inspired by the ethereal, mystical work of Peruvian painter Pablo Amaringo. To bring it home, Kenzo's Fall 2019 runway featured a stunning backdrop of the artist's graphic work.

Playful Prints

Make your bold turtleneck the center of your ensemble by keeping the rest of your look simple. Trousers or a pair of basic high-waisted jeans are ideal for tucking in your fitted top.