Turtleneck Sweater
Some styles of sweaters consistently stand the test of time because of their comfort, versatility and panache. The turtleneck sweater (sometimes called the polo neck sweater) is most definitely this kind of sweater. The turtleneck sweater can be any kind of material, weight, style, color, knit. The only distinguishing factor of the turtleneck is the high neck that wearers fold down once. (Another popular, yet slightly lesser known cousin of the turtleneck is the mock turtleneck, where the collar only comes half way up the neck).
Turtlenecks first emerged in the 1890's as a sporty garment, worn to play outdoor sports in cold weather. Despite it's secondary name, the polo sweater is not typically worn for polo. As turtlenecks rose in popularity, laborers such as fishermen and metal workers began adopting the style, both for comfort, warmth, and the soothing feeling of the close-fit around the neck. Turtlenecks did not become a major fashion statement until the 1920's, when white-collar professionals started adopting the trend to make a statement in rejection of the more formal suit and tie look.
In the 1950's, the turtleneck transitioned from a look worn by revolutionaries, to a look worn by "preppies". Men were wearing plain cotton turtlenecks under letter-sweaters and college cardigans to perpetuate an image of class, money and intelligence. Women began to adopt the style at this time for the same reason. In different social circles, some women began wearing plain white turtlenecks. This look was said to be "unisex" - and began to become the major fashion trend of the groups that would later found the feminist movements.
Today, turtlenecks are still extremely popular, although it is women who are now most common seen wearing the garment. The classic turtleneck is perfect for a professional atmosphere, for a casual atmosphere, for leisurely activities and for sport. Men continue to wear turtleneck sweaters as well, often with jeans, underneath a blazer, or as an undergarment for cold-weather sports.