The V-Neck Sweater is a must-have because you'll need warm layering pieces for the cooler months, and it helps you to mix and match your Important Wardrobe a little better by layering it under a blazer or suit, over an oxford or semi-spread collar dress shirt, and matched with simple dark wash jeans or wool trousers and a white sneaker, boots, or oxford dress shoes. So how did I manage to leave it off this list?
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A V-NECK AND A CREW NECK?
Crewnecks are fine, but they're more of a casual choice. As a result, a V-Neck sweater is a must-have because it's a classy sweater. V-necks add a touch of dressy formality that a crewneck just can't match.
Don't get me wrong, I like crewnecks, but most guys don't know how to dress them properly, so they end up looking messy. I know some guys prefer the crew neck and tie or suit look, but in this situation, I will almost always pick a V-neck or cardigan sweater over a crewneck.
THE V-NECK'S Past
Famous Hollywood actors like James Dean and Marlon Brando wore T-shirts in the 1940s and 1950s, and they became very famous. T-shirts had previously been considered undergarments.
T-shirts in various colors started to appear in the 1960s. T-shirts used to come in rounded, crew-neck designs. The V-neck design was developed by brands that decided to change things up with different t-shirt colors and designs.
Yes & No FOR V-NECK SWEATERS
Yes comes first.
- Wear them with your suits.
- Underneath a blazer, they look great.
- Wear them under pea coats and overcoats.
- They're perfect for layering under leather jackets.
- They can be worn with or without a tie.
- Wear them with semi-spread collar dress shirts tucked into the "v"
- Wear them and Oxford Dress Shirts with Button Down Collars.
- Pair them with a pair of Wool Trousers.
- Pair them with a pair of Dark Wash Jeans.
- Pair them with a pair of white sneakers.
- Put them on with a pair of Oxford Dress Shoes.
- Put them on with Boots.
- Allow your partner to borrow them to cuddle or wear.
- When they become worn or thin around the elbows or the neck becomes stretched out, toss them out.
It’s time for NO.
- Wear them with a dress shirt and rest the collar on top.
- Pair them with a pair of shorts.
- They're perfect for layering over polo shirts (ever)
- Wear them over tees (ever)
- Wear them without a shirt underneath – this is disgusting!
- If they have any holes, pilling, or are worn thin around the elbows, wear them.
TEXTILES
I tend to work with V-Neck Sweaters made of wool, either standard or merino wool. Cashmere is also a wonderful fabric, but it's a little more expensive. If you're a little colder, a wool/silk or cotton-blend sweater is a good choice; Pima cotton is also good, but it stretches out easily.
COLORATION
In your wardrobe, you must have at least one black V-Neck Sweater. If you already have a black one, get a navy and/or charcoal grey one. These hues will complement the rest of your Essential Wardrobe. If you want a third choice, a darker brown will go well with your existing wardrobe.
