My winter fashion aesthetic can best be described as a mix between duvet-chic and a quirky, recently tenured English Lit Professor at a small, liberal arts college in New England. With that very specific look in mind, mama needed a turtleneck.
When I think of turtlenecks, I think of the L.L. Bean, or primary color offerings of my youth (no shade). I wanted something a little different, and I found it in this Free People Gather Print Turtleneck. Julieta found the same delight in printed turtlenecks last winter, and I’m happy to say the trend continues.
Obsessed: How I’m Wearing The Free People Gather Print Turtleneck
So, I’m a sweaty kid and I HATE anything too confining, even in the winter. How does a turtleneck factor into this equation? Well, this Free People turtleneck is lighter-weight than most, with a three-quarter-length sleeve.
Sweaty kid approved.
It’s also super flattering. It’s fitted, but not tight; TTS (I’m wearing a large) and comes in a bunch of fun, vibrant patterns. On top of that, it’s under $70, making it a fab, relatively budget-conscious way to play with prints.
3 Ways To Wear The Free People Gather Print Turtleneck
1| Let It Shine On Its Own
Top | Jeans (diff. wash) | Tote (similar) | Boots | Headband
The Free People Turtleneck is definitely a top that can hold its own. Rock that ’60s-’70s vibe with a pair of baby flares. My jeans are MOTHER Denim from last season, but I did find the exact same style (in a different wash) at Anthropologie. Or try these Abercrombie vintage flares for a more budget-friendly option. While I love my Clare V. Simple Tote (currently sold out – this one’s similar), it’s expensive, so here’s an under-$100 dupe.
Fit Notes: The turtleneck runs TTS (I’m wearing a Large). MOTHER The Weekender Flare jeans run TTS (I’m wearing a 30). The boots are TTS (I’m wearing a size 8).
2|Add A Jacket
Since the turtleneck is lightweight, chances are that I might need a jacket. Unlike black, the brown suede of my old KUT from the Kloth jacket (similar) allows the Free People turtleneck to still shine.
Top | Jacket (similar) | Jeans (diff. wash) | Boots | Bag (similar) | Headband
I finished the look off with a Clare V. midi bag (similar 1 | similar 2), Blondo Black Moto Boots (under $70!) and a headband. Total mod fall vibes.
Fit Notes: The turtleneck runs TTS (I’m wearing a large). MOTHER The Weekender flare jeans run TTS (I’m wearing a 30). The boots are TTS (I’m wearing an 8).
3| Layer It Under A Jumpsuit
Top | Jumpsuit (similar 1 | similar 2) | Heels | Clutch (similar) | Headband
When I purchased this Everlane jumpsuit (similar 1 | similar 2), I knew I would make it a 3-season piece by layering a turtleneck underneath it, and this one absolutely shines under a jumpsuit. This look is an entire mood; I love it. It’s got a retro vibe, but also feels fresh. The sandals are Steve Madden and surprisingly comfortable (also a lower heel). The clutch is a Rejina Pyo I purchased on super sale this summer (similar clutch).
Fit Notes: The turtleneck runs TTS (I’m wearing a large). The sandals are TTS (I’m wearing an 8). The original jumpsuit runs small (wearing a 12,) but I can’t vouch for the sizing on the alternates (similar 1 | similar 2).
Reminder to self: a “statement top” doesn’t have to be limiting. Finding ways to work it into pieces already in my closet helps me get maximum wear out of it. And, at under $70, this Free People turtleneck has been a fun add to my outfit rotation.
x. Meredith
