Let me tell you something that might surprise you – I discovered dickies turtlenecks completely by accident. I was rushing to get ready for a business meeting last winter, threw on a blazer over a regular turtleneck, and felt like I was suffocating in a fabric prison. That's when my colleague Sarah casually mentioned, "Girl, you need a dickie." I thought she was talking about pants. Boy, was I wrong.
Fast forward six months, and I'm completely obsessed with these genius little pieces of clothing. If you've never heard of dickies turtlenecks, you're about to have your mind blown. And if you're already in the know, stick around – I've tested dozens of options to bring you the absolute best picks for 2025.
What Exactly Are Dickies Turtlenecks?
Before we dive into the good stuff, let's get one thing straight. Dickies turtlenecks (also called dickeys or dickies) are basically the hack every busy person needs in their wardrobe. They're false shirt fronts that give you the polished, layered look of wearing a turtleneck under your sweater, blazer, or jacket – without the bulk, heat, or discomfort of an actual full shirt.
Think of them as the clothing equivalent of a clever Instagram filter. They make you look put-together and professional while keeping you comfortable. The concept isn't new – dickies have been around since the 1960s, but they've had a major glow-up in recent years.
Why Everyone's Obsessing Over Dickies Turtlenecks in 2025
Here's the thing – we're living in an era where comfort meets style, and dickies turtlenecks are the perfect embodiment of that philosophy. Mock turtleneck dickies are especially popular among motorcycle riders who want to protect their neck from bitter winds, but they've expanded far beyond that niche.
I've seen everyone from corporate executives to college students rocking these. My friend Jessica, who works in law enforcement, swears by them. Police officers use turtleneck dickies to maintain a professional appearance while staying comfortable during long shifts. The moisture-wicking properties keep them dry, and the lightweight design prevents overheating.
The Top Dickies Turtlenecks That Actually Deliver
After testing countless options, here are my top picks that balance style, comfort, and durability:
1. Blauer Turtleneck Dickey – The Professional's Choice
This is the gold standard for anyone in a professional setting. Made with a performance blend of cotton and Lycra with moisture-wicking treatment, it's specifically designed for public safety professionals but works brilliantly for anyone who needs to look sharp.
Key Features:
- High cotton content (safer for public safety use)
- Moisture-wicking technology
- Reinforced collar with stretch fusible interlining
- True color matching between collar and body
The sizing is generous – it fits chest sizes from 36- inches across their size range. One downside? Some colors are discontinued, so grab your preferred shade while you can.
2. Walter Drake Mock Turtleneck Dickie – The Everyday Essential
This is my personal go-to for casual wear. Made of a 65/ polyester/cotton blend that's fully breathable to wick away moisture, it's comfortable enough for all-day wear.
What sets this apart is the extra-long 12" design that makes it easier to tuck into your primary layer. No more embarrassing moments when your dickie rides up during important meetings.
Available Colors:
- Black (my personal favorite)
- Navy blue
- White
- Red
- Ivory
3. AAA Police Supply Turtleneck Dickey – The Performance Pick
Don't let the "police supply" name fool you – this is for anyone who values performance. Made with 90% cotton and 10% spandex, it features 4-way stretch fabric with moisture-wicking properties.
The seam reinforcement tape is a game-changer for durability. I've had mine for eight months of regular wear, and it still looks brand new. The care instructions are straightforward – machine wash cold, gentle cycle, no bleach or softener.
4. Miles Kimball Dickie Mock Turtleneck – The Budget-Friendly Option
Sometimes you need quality without breaking the bank. This false shirt-front features an overlocked edge that lays flat for comfort and effortless wearability. The fabric feels surprisingly soft against your skin, and the unisex design means it works for everyone.
Perfect for:
- Students on a budget
- Testing out the dickie trend
- Having backup options in multiple colors
5. Etsy Knit Wool Dickie – The Luxury Experience
When you want to feel fancy, this is your pick. Made with 40% wool, 25% angora, 20% viscose, and 15% polyamide, it's like wrapping your neck in a cashmere cloud.
The measurements are generous – length about cm, width cm at both top and bottom, with a cm collar height. It's handmade in Ukraine, which adds to the artisanal appeal. Just remember, this requires hand washing and horizontal drying.
6. Salt + Smoke Turtleneck Dickie – The Conversation Starter
Okay, this one's quirky, but hear me out. Perfect for layering up without the bulk, bringing just the right mix of comfort, style, and sass. It's branded merchandise from a BBQ restaurant, but the quality is surprisingly excellent.
The founder's story is charming – Tom discovered his mother's dickie and decided to bring Salt + Smoke-branded dickies to the world. It's perfect for casual weekends when you want something with personality.
7. DIY Crochet Option – The Creative Route
For the crafty souls out there, making your own dickie is surprisingly achievable. This turtleneck has only two rows to repeat, making it beginner-friendly. The finished product measures about cm in length and fits both adults and children.
Materials needed: medium-weight yarn and a 4.5mm crochet hook. The process takes about 2- hours, and you'll have something completely unique.
How to Style Your Dickies Turtleneck Like a Pro
Here's where the magic happens. The key to nailing the dickie look is making it appear intentional, not like you're trying to fake having a full turtleneck underneath.
For Professional Settings:
- Pair with a blazer in a contrasting color
- Choose neutral colors like black, navy, or white
- Ensure the dickie stays tucked throughout the day
For Casual Wear:
- Layer under cardigans or pullovers
- Experiment with colors and textures
- Try it with V-neck sweaters for an unexpected twist
The Science Behind Why Dickies Work
There's actual logic behind why dickies turtlenecks are so effective. Layering is a great way to add extra warmth when you need it, but sometimes wearing a sweater over a turtleneck is too warm. Dickies solve this temperature regulation problem perfectly.
Your torso generates the most body heat, so adding a full turtleneck layer can lead to overheating. By covering just the neck and upper chest area, dickies provide warmth where you need it most while allowing better airflow to the rest of your body.
Real People, Real Results
Let me share some success stories from my friend circle. Maria, a marketing director, started wearing dickies to client meetings after constantly overheating in full turtlenecks. She reports feeling more confident and comfortable, which translates to better presentation performance.
Then there's Jake, a motorcycle enthusiast who discovered dickies after struggling with wind protection. He loves that they protect his neck from bitter winds without the bulk of traditional layers. His gear fits better, and he stays comfortable on long rides.
Shopping Tips and Sizing Guide
When shopping for dickies turtlenecks, here's what to look for:
| Feature | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Blend | Affects comfort and durability | Cotton/poly blends for everyday wear, wool blends for luxury |
| Moisture-Wicking | Prevents overheating | Look for specifically mentioned wicking properties |
| Length | Prevents riding up | At least inches for secure tucking |
| Collar Height | Determines coverage | Higher collars offer more warmth and coverage |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't make these rookie errors:
- Choosing the wrong size – Too tight and it's uncomfortable; too loose and it bunches up
- Ignoring care instructions – Many dickies require specific washing methods
- Wearing with the wrong necklines – Avoid wearing under crew necks; stick to V-necks and open collars
- Forgetting to tuck properly – A visible dickie edge ruins the illusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are dickies turtlenecks still in style?
A: Absolutely! While they peaked in popularity decades ago, they're experiencing a major comeback. Fashion bloggers are calling them "never out of style, always comfortable, and they look great with about everything".
Q: How do I know what size to buy?
A: Most dickies are one-size-fits-most, but check the chest measurements. Blauer sizes range from 36- inch chest measurements. When in doubt, size up for comfort.
Q: Can I wear a dickie instead of a scarf?
A: Yes! Many people wear dickies in place of scarves or as all-day fashion statements. They provide consistent warmth without the bulk or risk of losing a scarf.
Q: How do I wash my dickie?
A: Most can be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach and softener, tumble dry low, and remove promptly. Check the specific care label for your material.
Q: Are dickies only for professional settings?
A: Not at all! While they're popular with professionals, they're also fashionable additions for outdoor activities, motorcycle riding, and casual layering.
The Bottom Line
Dickies turtlenecks are one of those fashion discoveries that make you wonder how you lived without them. Whether you're a busy professional, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who just wants to look put-together without the hassle, there's a dickie option for you.
My personal recommendation? Start with the Walter Drake option for everyday wear, then invest in a Blauer if you need something more professional. Once you experience the comfort and convenience, you'll likely end up with several in different colors.
The key is choosing quality materials, proper sizing, and styling them with confidence. Remember, fashion is about feeling good in what you wear, and dickies turtlenecks deliver on both comfort and style.
What's your biggest challenge with layering in professional settings, and how do you think a dickie turtleneck might solve it?
