Turtle-Neck Jumpers

An English gentleman at lawn sports, a sailor braving the elements, a student in the 1950s – these are the images that have shaped the history of the roll-neck jumper. The turtleneck did indeed come into fashion in England at the end of the 19th century. On the golf course it stood up to the British weather, keeping the upper body and neck warm without a scarf getting in the way of play. Thanks to these merits, it has been an indispensable part of menswear since the 1950s and 1960s. First much loved in black as the hallmark of the existentialists, then popularised by Steve Jobs as the signature of the self-made man, the designer roll-neck jumper for men, crafted in qualities ranging from fine-gauge knit to chunky rib, has evolved into a true classic: one that brings its own elegance and lends its wearer an air of intellect and style. Today, this knitwear is more versatile than ever, with a selection ranging from understated tones to bold colours that give any outfit a personal touch. In autumn especially, a high-quality men’s roll-neck jumper is a timeless favourite, combining warmth, comfort and style, which makes it a convincing choice for everyday wear and formal occasions alike.

How should you style a men’s turtleneck?

In today’s fashion, the versatile turtleneck offers the style-conscious gentleman endless ways to wear it. Worn in place of a shirt beneath a tailored jacket or suit, it guarantees a classic, elegant appearance in a smart-casual business setting and makes a stylish companion at the office. Paired casually with wool or tailored trousers, the designer men’s turtleneck becomes a relaxed off-duty basic for a clean look with real class. Alternatively, wear it in sporty-chic style with jeans and a trench coat or a leather jacket.

Which material should I choose for a turtleneck?

The choice of material for your men’s turtleneck depends on the season. In winter, the answer is simple: supple cashmere and chunky knits in pure, soft wool keep you warm, which is why they rank among the most popular materials in the colder months of the year. Alpaca is likewise very warming and helps to regulate temperature. Vicuña wool is considerably finer and lighter than sheep’s wool, yet up to five to seven times warmer, which means a knit need not always be thick to provide adequate warmth. From cool temperatures through to the transitional season, merino wool shows its strengths: men’s turtlenecks in merino regulate warmth, perfectly balancing body temperature with that of the surroundings. In spring and on cool summer evenings, lightweight zip-neck jumpers and men’s turtlenecks in cotton are the right choice. Fine-knit styles worn under a tailored jacket or as a layering piece beneath a cardigan may be made from cotton, merino or virgin wool; here too, the especially fine knit helps to balance temperature. Whatever you choose, opt for a half-lined jacket, even if your turtleneck is relatively thin, so that your freedom of movement is not restricted. To complement knitwear in the qualities mentioned above, you can mix in fabrics such as bouclé, denim or leather. This adds texture and depth to any look built around a designer men’s turtleneck.

Who suits a men’s turtleneck?

For men of average build, a turtleneck is always a way to create a look that is understated yet put-together. With its high neckline, the turtleneck draws attention to the neck and chin, making it an excellent choice for showing off a strong jawline. Those who would rather draw attention away from this area should opt for a designer half-zip jumper for men and wear the zip or buttons at the collar open. The sporty type will find his favourite in a designer men’s turtleneck from Stone Island or Belstaff; for a more fashion-forward look, there are the oversized styles with heart intarsia from Ami Paris, while the collections of Brunello Cucinelli and Allude offer subtle luxury, voluminous knits and cable patterns – two brands that primarily carry exclusive men’s turtlenecks in pure cashmere. Our knitwear range covers the full variety of stand-up collars, zip necks and roll necks for men. The refined quality of our premium natural materials guarantees exceptional comfort that you will enjoy for years to come. What all these turtlenecks have in common is that they keep the neck pleasantly warm and make a scarf (almost) unnecessary, especially if you enjoy long walks. A high-quality men’s turtleneck is, in any case, a valuable addition to your wardrobe.

Discover a piece in our BRAUN Hamburg online shop that matches your personal style and your size.