Written by Sonia Su

Mastering the art of pairing a turtleneck with a suit jacket is a stylish way to elevate your formal and semi-formal attire, while ensuring you stay warm for occasions during colder months.

The trend of wearing a turtleneck sweater with a suit dates back to the 1970s, thanks to designers such as Yves Saint Laurent.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how to wear a black turtleneck with a suit, as well as the dos and don'ts of combining these two wardrobe staples to achieve a contemporary, sophisticated look that's both fashionable and functional for various occasions.

 

How to Wear a Black Turtleneck Sweater with a Suit

Wearing a black turtleneck sweater with a suit can be a good choice for achieving a sleek and stylish look. Here are some tips to pull off this stylish ensemble:

• Choose a Well-Tailored Suit: The fit of your suit is paramount. Ensure it's well-tailored to your body for a polished and more sophisticated look. For more, here are guides on how to buy a suit and how long it takes to get a suit tailored.
  
  

• Opt for a Slim Fit Turtleneck: A slim-fit black turtleneck complements the sleekness of the suit. Make sure it's not too tight but fits well around the neck and body. Alternatively, go with a slim-fit dress shirt if the turtleneck sweater is not your vibe.
• Coordinate Colors: Black on black is a classic and timeless choice. For a modern twist, consider other dark colors such as a grey suit, dark charcoal suit, or deep navy suit to create a subtle contrast.
• Play with Textures: Experiment with different fabric textures. A wool black turtleneck pairs nicely with a lightweight suit for a balanced look.
  
• Accessorize Mindfully: Keep accessories minimal and well-coordinated. A classic black belt, polished shoes, and a watch can complete the look.
• Maintain Grooming: Pay attention to grooming, as a clean-shaven or well-maintained beard can enhance the overall aesthetic.
• Select the Right Occasion: A black suit and turtleneck sweater combination is more appropriate for semi-formal events or business-casual settings. Consider the formality of the occasion when choosing this outfit.
• Confidence is Key: The key to rocking this great look is confidence. Embrace the elegance and simplicity of the ensemble, and carry yourself with assurance.

By following these tips, you can confidently wear a black turtleneck with a suit, creating a modern and chic appearance that's the perfect choice for smart casual occasions like the Kentucky Derby and can make you look more attractive.

 

Dos and Don'ts of Wearing a Suit with Turtleneck

Dos:

1. Choose Complementary Colors: Whether you choose to wear a charcoal suit and sweater with black shoes, or a blue suit with dark colors, select a turtleneck and suit in colors that complement each other, creating a harmonious and stylish ensemble.
2. Proper Fit: Ensure that both the turtleneck and suit fit well, as a well-tailored outfit enhances your overall appearance. Be sure to check out our suit size calculator.
3. Experiment with Textures: Mix different fabric textures for a visually appealing outfit, such as pairing a wool turtleneck with a lightweight suit.
4. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Add accessories like a belt, pocket square, or cufflinks to complete the look and elevate your style. Here is a guide on how to fold a pocket square.
   
5. Consider the Occasion: Choose this combination for the right event, as it's more suited for semi-formal or business-casual occasions.

Don'ts:

1. Mismatched Styles: Stick to a more traditional suit and avoid pairing turtlenecks with a very casual suit, as it can create an unbalanced and awkward appearance.
2. Overlooking Grooming: Pay attention to grooming and consider factors like facial hair, as it can significantly impact the overall look.
3. Neglecting the Fit: Ill-fitting clothes can detract from the sleekness of the outfit, so ensure a proper fit for both the turtleneck and suit.
4. Too Many Layers: Avoid adding too many layers, as the turtleneck and suit should be the focal point of the ensemble.
5. Inappropriate Occasions: Save this combination for more relaxed formal events, and opt for a traditional dress shirt and classic tie for very formal occasions.

By following these dos and don'ts, you can confidently navigate the world of pairing a suit with a turtleneck and create a fashion-forward yet sophisticated look.

 

Turtleneck Colors to Wear with a Navy Blue Suit

When pairing a turtleneck with a navy blue suit jacket, several turtleneck colors work exceptionally well to create a stylish and versatile look:

1. Charcoal Gray: A dark charcoal gray turtleneck complements a navy blue suit beautifully. The contrast is subtle and sophisticated, making it suitable for various occasions.
2. Burgundy: A rich burgundy or maroon turtleneck adds warmth and depth. This combination exudes elegance and works particularly well in the fall and winter.
3. Deep Green: A deep forest or emerald green turtleneck can provide a pop of color to your navy suit. This choice is stylish and great for adding some personality to your outfit. This is our favorite hunter green dress shirt.
4. Cream or Beige: Lighter turtleneck colors like cream or beige create a clean and fresh contrast, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings.
   
5. Black: For a classic and timeless look, pair your navy suit with a black turtleneck. This combination is sleek and can be dressed up or down as needed.
6. Navy Blue: Wearing a navy with navy creates a monochromatic, tonal look. It's a bold and fashion-forward choice, especially when the shades of navy are slightly different.
7. Camel: A camel-colored turtleneck provides a warm and earthy contrast, making it an excellent choice for the fall season.
8. Light Gray: Light gray turtlenecks offer a soft and understated contrast. This combination is versatile and suitable for various occasions.

The key is to coordinate the turtleneck color with the navy suit while considering the formality of the event. These color options allow you to create a range of looks from classic and timeless to more modern and trendy, depending on your personal style and the occasion.

 

Outfit Ideas When Wearing a Suit with Turtleneck

When wearing a suit with a turtleneck, you have numerous outfit ideas to choose from, allowing you to adapt your look to various occasions and personal styles. Here are some outfit ideas to consider when you wear a turtleneck with a suit:

Classic Elegance

• Navy blue suit paired with a black turtleneck.
• Black leather dress shoes.
• Minimalist watch and a black belt.
• Ideal for formal events, business meetings, or a classic evening out.

Sophisticated Monochromatic

• Dark gray monochromatic turtleneck with a charcoal gray suit.
• Matching gray dress shoes.
• A sleek leather briefcase.
• Perfect for a more formal setting, such as business, presentations, or upscale dinners.

Pop of Color

• Burgundy turtleneck with a navy blue suit.
• Brown leather shoes or loafers.
• A pocket square in a complementary color.
  
• Great for fall and winter occasions, including weddings and holiday gatherings.

Tonal Blues

• Navy turtleneck with a medium blue suit.
• Blue suede or leather shoes.
• A patterned tie or pocket square in shades of blue.
  
• Suitable for business-casual settings, conferences, or casual networking events.

Casual Chic

• Light gray turtleneck with a light blue suit.
• White sneakers or loafers.
• A canvas messenger bag.
• Ideal for more relaxed business environments, daytime events, or creative industries.

Modern Contrast

• Black suit with a camel turtleneck.
• Black or brown Chelsea boots. Here's a guide on how to pair a black suit with brown shoes.
• Minimalist black accessories.
• Perfect for fashion-forward events, art exhibitions, or a night out in the city.

Earthy Tones

• Green turtleneck with a dark brown suit.
• Tan or brown leather brogues.
• A woven belt in a complementary color.
• Suitable for outdoor events, rustic weddings, or a countryside retreat.

Winter Layers

• Charcoal gray turtleneck under a tweed suit.
• Woolen socks and brown leather boots.
• A warm overcoat in a coordinating color.
• Ideal for cold-weather formal events, such as business meetings, winter weddings, or holiday gatherings.

Remember that the key to a successful outfit is ensuring that the turtleneck and suit colors complement each other and that the overall look aligns with the formality of the event. Accessorize thoughtfully, pay attention to fit, and exude confidence to make a lasting impression in any setting. To learn more, read about our favorite suit brands for men. 

 

Wearing a Turtleneck with a Suit Bottom Line

Wearing a turtleneck with a suit is a stylish and versatile choice that can elevate your formal and semi-formal attire. By carefully selecting the right turtleneck color, coordinating with your suit, and paying attention to fit and accessories, you can achieve a modern and sophisticated look that suits a variety of occasions.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Suit with Turtleneck

Can you wear a turtleneck with a suit?

Yes, you can wear a turtleneck with a suit for a stylish and sophisticated look. This combination adds a touch of elegance and is particularly well-suited for cooler weather or more casual yet refined settings.

How do you fold a turtleneck with a suit?

While wearing a turtleneck with a suit, you can maintain a sharp and wrinkle-free look by gently rolling the turtleneck down towards the neck to create a clean edge at the top of the suit collar. Ensure that the turtleneck lays flat and is not bunching or bulging under the suit for a sleek and polished appearance.

What jacket to wear with turtleneck?

A turtleneck pairs well with a variety of jacket styles, but some popular choices include blazers, sports jackets, and overcoats. The key is to coordinate the jacket with the formality of the event and the overall look you want to achieve, whether it's a casual, business, or formal outfit.

Can I wear a turtleneck with a suit to prom?

Wearing a turtleneck with a suit to prom can be a fashion-forward choice, especially if you're looking for a modern and unique take on formal attire. Just ensure that the turtleneck and suit colors and styles coordinate well, and that it aligns with the overall formality and dress code of the prom.