When I was growing up, I hated the onset of fall. I hated it because I knew what it meant: being forced to wear turtlenecks to school. I felt that they strangled me and made me look like a little adult. Many years later, I now love turtlenecks (I promise they’re comfortable!) and they have become an essential part of my fall and winter closet.

I couldn’t be more excited that they are coming back into style. Turtlenecks have been around for a while. In Europe, they’ve been worn for hundreds of years and, for a while, were considered strictly menswear. However, this all changed in the United States in the 1920s when feminists began wearing this item, making it unisex. Soon enough, this once strictly menswear item became a clothing obsession among women, specifically among teenage girls.

The classic form of the turtleneck flatters and elongates its wearer’s body, one of the many reasons it has stayed fashionable for so long. The neck not only has a slimming effect, but also adds an extra layer of warmth which is needed for the cold weather. With the chilly fall and winter weather approaching us quickly, it is important to stay warm on campus.

Sophomore Marianna Lovo says, “I think turtle neck sweaters are trending now because people are starting to realize that the colder it gets, the harder it is to try and show off your fashion sense without over layering and feeling clumpy. Turtlenecks are a fashionable alternative between comfort and style.”

Turtlenecks come in different colors, shapes and materials — there’s an option that will fit anyone’s personal style. The neck section of the sweater also varies: it can be tighter or looser, allowing for the wearer to have total control over their comfort.

My personal favorite is an oversized, fluffy turtleneck with a looser neck. This comfy sweater can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For example, pair it with booties and jeans layered under a coat and you’re ready for class.

Want a more refined look? Pair it with leggings, thigh-high boots and a vest and you’re good to go. The turtleneck is already making its rounds in Europe, so it’s only a matter of time before it arrives to the United States.

“Turtlenecks are the perfect addition to any fall or winter outfit because you can wear them in so many ways” says junior Laura Lee Singer, who is studying abroad in Vienna.

While traveling around Europe, she’s seen this sweater styled in so many ways, but her favorite is pairing it with high waisted jeans or under a leather dress with thin straps. “It makes the outfit look effortlessly chic and retro,” she explains.

Timeless and elegant, the turtleneck is a style that is finally trending again. You can wear it in so many ways and on so many occasions — it’s something you need to add to your closet if you haven’t already. It is only a short amount of time before this style takes over Wake Forest’s campus!