I have to stress that what you’re about to read is down to personal preference; you might be busty or petite—or both!—and love wearing roll-necks. More power to you if this is the case. But based on my experience as a 5’3” woman with a 32G cup size, roll-necks aren’t the first thing I reach for when I want to feel my best. I can’t put my finger on it, but there’s something about the surplus fabric, which, I think, makes my outfits look messy. I am, however, very into high necklines and knitwear in general. So what’s the solution? Mock-neck jumpers.
Wearing my very, very well-worn & Other Stories mock neck jumper (£35).
What is a mock-neck jumper? I hear you ask. Well, let’s start with what it’s not. A roll-neck (or a turtleneck, as they’re known in the U.S.) typically has just that—a roll neck, a portion of fabric on the neckline that folds back on itself to create a double-layer effect. Most roll-necks sit under the chin, even when doubled over. Of course, thicknesses vary, and you can choose whichever one speaks to you. Still, generally, I find a large percentage of roll-necks come up too high and feel somewhat suffocating on my petite frame—especially the fitted iterations. As for my bust? I feel like the height of roll-necks doesn’t do my curves justice. Irrational as this may sound, I have spoken to other women with bigger busts who, although we can’t put our finger on why, just don’t love wearing roll-necks. Enter mock-neck jumpers.
Karina Marriott wears a yellow pointelle mock-neck jumper.
Unlike roll-necks that usually sit just below the jawbone, mock-neck jumpers tend to sit halfway up the neck and don’t have the dual, fold-over layer. Although they create the illusion of the classic roll-neck, I find them to be a little less constricting but no less chic. What I love most about it is that the mock-neck jumper is still a cold-weather staple—it comes up just high enough to keep the chill at bay—but it also makes a more seamless transition into warmer months, as it generally doesn’t look as wintry. Of course, you don’t need to have my exact body type to appreciate the mock-neck jumper. Jessica Skye and Karina Marriott are just two examples of influencers who have honed in on the mock-neck-jumper trend this season.
Jessica Skye wears a green mock-neck jumper.
Although they used to be harder to come by than other knitwear styles, mock-neck jumpers have started to crop up everywhere right now. I already own a handful of & Other Stories mock-neck jumpers, but now that high-end designers are giving them their care and attention, too, perhaps it’s time to elevate my collection with something special. Scroll on to see my edit of the best mock-neck jumpers for every budget and style. I have a feeling you’re going to like them just as much as I do.
Striped knitwear is huge right now.
I love this desaturated shade of green.
A classic.
The detail on the shoulder makes this a standout knitwear option.
Oversized, super-soft, and with a mock neckline? Totême understood the assignment.
This hue of orange looks so expensive.
Even cable-knits have been given the mock-neck treatment.
The Row has also created its very own, high-end mock-neck.
This Gap knit will stand the test of time.
Sézane always has some of the strongest knitwear.
This beautiful knit also comes in a taupe-and-black colourway.
Trust COS to keep things elevated with this cream, batwing number.
Brown tones are still trending this season.
If you prefer your knitwear cropped…
You’ll pull out this mock-neck jumper year after year.
I’m also very into the matching skirt.
Everyone should consider having a grey jumper in their wardrobes.
This pink shade is too good not to include.
The perfect WFH throw-on.
Next Up: The Boring Item That Is Suddenly Selling Out Everywhere
