Turtleneck Knit Codes [ From the greats to street snaps, we introduce the hottest outfits & recommended models ].

Turtleneck knits are a staple for fall and winter, bringing warmth to the neck without a scarf or stole, while also creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. It boasts outstanding versatility, matching a variety of styles. In this issue, we take a deeper look at its origins and history, and introduce some of the most popular outfits and recommended items!

What is a turtleneck knit?High-necked sweaters originated in medieval Europe and became popular in the 19th century

A turtleneck is a round, high collar (high neck) that closely fits around the neck. It is commonly called a “turtleneck” in reference to the neck of a turtle, but it is also sometimes called a “polo neck” in the UK due to its background as worn by polo players, and a “col cheminée” in France, meaning a chimney. In former times in Japan, it was also called a “tokkuri” (“tokkuri”) because of its shape, which resembles a drinking vessel. Both designations refer to the design that covers the neck.

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The prototype of the turtleneck knit was born in medieval Europe. It is said that it was invented to protect the necks of knights who wore heavy armor and chain mail. Later, in the 19th century, it spread as a practical item of workwear and sportswear. It was adopted by the Royal Navy as warm clothing for sailors exposed to cold sea breezes, and was also introduced as a uniform for polo players, who played the outdoor sport of polo, to provide both mobility and warmth.

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History of Turtleneck Knits in Men's FashionAt the turn of the 20th century, it established itself as a fashion item. After that, it became a symbol of rebellion!

In the 1920s, turtlenecks escaped the realm of laborers and sportsmen and made their way into the wardrobes of the fashionable. Turtlenecks were adopted by the fashionistas of the time as a dignified alternative to wearing a tie, and established themselves as a fashion item.

Clark Gable, a star of the silver screen who graced the Hollywood scene in the early 1900s Photo: Album/Afro.

In the 1960s, his presence transformed into more of a cultural icon. In the cultural scene of music and art, it was worn by artists such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Andy Warhol. And in some civil rights and feminist movements, turtleneck knitwear became a uniform that showed resistance to the existing system. The turtleneck knit has also become an iconic piece of clothing that expresses an individual’s ideology and identity.

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The Beatles Photo: Afro

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Andy Warhol Photo: Best Image/Afro

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In the 1970s, turtleneck knits became an iconic item for cool men. Among them, Steve McQueen’s look in the movie ‘ Brit’ has been passed down to the present day. Wearing a tight-fitting, high-gauge turtleneck and carrying a holster on his back, he is the ideal image that many people aspire to to this day.

Photo: Album/Afro

Incidentally, James Bond shows off a similar style in the 2015 film ‘ 007/Spectre,’ as if to pay homage to the film.

Photo by The Grosby Group/Afro.

Where does the turtleneck sweater stand in modern times?Evolution to quasi-formal wear!

Originally worn by laborers, athletes, and sailors, turtleneck knitwear is now becoming “semi-formal wear” for men. In 2022, the French government, against the backdrop of the energy crisis, including concerns about gas supply shortages due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, recommended the wearing of turtlenecks as part of the “Warm Biz” campaign. The wearing of turtlenecks is recommended. President Macron was often seen wearing a turtleneck as an inner layer of his suit. The image shows President Macron at a meeting with German Chancellor Scholz.

Photo: Reuters/Afro.

Check out the celebrities' coordinates!Turtleneck knits worn by modern celebrities

In addition to the stars of the silver screen introduced so far, a number of other celebrities have been seen wearing turtleneck knits. Steve Jobs is one of the most iconic, wearing a turtleneck by Issey Miyake.

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Steve Jobs Photo: AP/Afro

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Ralph Lauren Photo: IMAXtree/Afro

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David Beckham Photo: Best Image/Afro

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Mr. Kong Yoo Photo: Afro

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Here are some turtleneck knit coordinates from overseas street snaps!