Let's be real - turtle necks used to be something your mom made you wear to family dinners. But guess what? They're absolutely everywhere now, and Dickies has some seriously good options that won't break the bank or make you look like you raided your dad's closet from 1995.
If you've been scrolling through TikTok lately, you've probably noticed turtle necks popping up in every other outfit video. There's something about that classic Dickies quality mixed with the cozy vibes of a good turtle neck that just works. Whether you're trying to look put-together for work or just want something comfortable that still looks intentional, we've got you covered.
The Turtle Necks That Actually Matter
Okay, so Dickies makes a bunch of different turtle necks, but let's talk about the ones that are actually worth your money. I've tried most of them (occupational hazard of being obsessed with workwear), and here's what you need to know.
The Classic Cotton One Everyone Needs
This is probably what you think of when someone says "Dickies turtle neck." It's that perfect medium-weight cotton that feels substantial but not heavy. The fit is just right - not too tight around your neck (because nobody wants to feel like they're being strangled by their shirt), but snug enough to actually look good.
What I love about this one is how it holds up. I've had mine for over two years, and it still looks exactly the same as when I bought it. No weird stretching, no fading, no random holes appearing after a few washes. It's around $25- depending on where you shop, which honestly feels like stealing when you consider how long it lasts.
The Winter Heavyweight Champion
If you live somewhere that actually gets cold (not just "I need a light jacket" cold, but real winter), this heavier version is amazing. It's like wearing a hug, but make it fashion. The fabric is thicker, so it works great for layering under jackets or wearing on its own when you want that cozy look.
The colors on this one are really nice too. They have this deep forest green that looks incredible with jeans, and a burgundy that's perfect for fall. Fair warning though - this one runs a bit larger than the regular cotton version, so you might want to size down if you don't want the oversized look.
The Lightweight Summer Option
I know what you're thinking - who wears turtle necks in summer? But hear me out. This lightweight version is perfect for those weird in-between weather days, or if you're like me and office air conditioning turns you into a popsicle year-round.
It's made from a cotton blend that actually breathes, which sounds impossible but somehow works. I wear mine with shorts sometimes (yes, really), and it doesn't look as weird as you'd think. Plus, it's great for layering when you're not sure if it's going to be hot or cold.
The Oversized Vibe Everyone's Copying
This is the one you see all over Instagram. It's deliberately bigger and has that effortless, borrowed-from-your-boyfriend look that Gen Z has perfected. The sleeves are longer, the body is roomier, and it just has this cool, undone feeling.
The trick with this one is not going too big. I see people swimming in these thinking bigger is better, but there's a sweet spot where it looks intentionally oversized instead of just ill-fitting. Try it on if you can, or if you're ordering online, stick with your regular size - it's already designed to be roomy.
The Professional One That Actually Works
If you need something that works in an office setting, this fitted version is your friend. It's got a cleaner silhouette and comes in colors that won't get you side-eyes from your boss. The black one is particularly good - it looks way more expensive than it is.
I wear this one to client meetings sometimes, and people always assume it cost way more than it did. There's something about the way Dickies cuts their clothes that just looks more premium than typical workwear brands.
How to Actually Style These Things
The beauty of a good turtle neck is that it's basically foolproof, but there are definitely ways to make it look more intentional. Here's what actually works in real life, not just on Pinterest.
The Everyday Uniform
Turtle neck plus good jeans equals instant outfit. I know it sounds basic, but there's a reason this combination never goes out of style. The key is getting the proportions right. If your turtle neck is fitted, you can go with skinny or straight jeans. If it's oversized, balance it out with something more tailored on the bottom.
For shoes, pretty much anything works. Sneakers keep it casual, boots make it a bit more put-together, and loafers hit that sweet spot in between. I probably wear this combination three times a week because it just works.
Dressing It Up
Want to make a turtle neck look fancy? Layer it under a blazer or throw on some jewelry. A simple gold chain over a black turtle neck instantly elevates the whole look. Or try layering a thin turtle neck under a slip dress - it's giving that effortless French girl vibe everyone's after.
For guys, a turtle neck with a good wool coat is basically a cheat code for looking sophisticated. Add some nice pants (not jeans), and you're ready for pretty much any occasion that doesn't require a tie.
The Layering Game
This is where turtle necks really shine. They work under almost everything - button-up shirts (leave a few buttons open to show the turtle neck), sweaters, vests, jackets. The key is watching the bulk. Too many thick layers and you'll look like the Michelin Man.
One combination I love is a thin turtle neck under a denim jacket with the collar popped slightly. It's casual but still looks like you tried, which is basically the perfect balance for most situations.
Getting the Fit Right
Here's the thing about turtle necks - the fit around your neck is everything. Too tight and you'll feel like you're being choked. Too loose and it just looks sloppy. When you try one on, you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the fabric and your neck.
The body fit depends on what look you're going for. If you want classic and clean, go with your regular size. If you want that relaxed, oversized vibe, size up one. Just don't go crazy - there's a difference between oversized and just plain big.
Length is important too. A good turtle neck should hit right around your hip bone. Any shorter and it might ride up when you move around. Any longer and it starts looking like a tunic, which probably isn't what you're going for.
Colors That Actually Work
Let's talk about colors for a second. Yes, black is classic and goes with everything. But don't sleep on some of the other options. Navy is incredibly versatile and looks a bit more interesting than black. Gray is perfect if you want something neutral but softer than black.
If you're feeling adventurous, that forest green I mentioned earlier is gorgeous. It works with everything you'd pair with black, but feels fresher. And if you can find it, burgundy or wine colors are perfect for fall and winter.
White turtle necks are tricky. They can look amazing, but they also show everything. If you're going to invest in a white one, make sure it's good quality because cheap white shirts always look cheap.
Taking Care of Your Investment
Good news - Dickies turtle necks are pretty low maintenance. Most of them can go in the washing machine on a normal cycle. I usually wash mine in cold water just to be safe, and I've never had any issues with shrinking or color fading.
The one thing to watch out for is how you dry them. I learned this the hard way - don't hang them by the shoulders because they'll get those weird shoulder bumps that never go away. Either lay them flat or hang them by the bottom hem.
If you get a stain, deal with it quickly. These cotton blends are pretty forgiving, but letting something sit will make it way harder to get out later. I keep a stain stick in my laundry room for emergencies.
Where to Buy and When to Buy
You can find Dickies turtle necks pretty much everywhere now - their website, Amazon, most department stores. I've had good luck with all of them, but buying direct from Dickies means you get the full size range and color selection.
If you're looking to save some money, end of season sales are your friend. I always stock up on basics in late winter when stores are trying to clear out inventory. You can usually find them for 30-40% off, which makes them an even better deal.
Just make sure you're buying from a legitimate retailer. There are some knockoffs out there that look similar but don't have the same quality. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
The Bottom Line
Look, turtle necks aren't rocket science. They're just a good, versatile piece that works in a lot of different situations. Dickies makes solid versions that won't fall apart after a few washes, and they won't make you look like you're trying too hard.
If you're new to the turtle neck game, start with the classic cotton one in black or navy. It's affordable, goes with everything, and you can figure out what you like from there. Once you've got one good basic turtle neck in your closet, you'll probably find yourself reaching for it way more than you expected.
The best part? Unlike trendy pieces that you'll be embarrassed to wear in six months, a good turtle neck is basically timeless. You're not just buying something for right now - you're investing in something you'll still be wearing years from now.
