Turtleneck, Roll Neck or Polo Neck? A Guide to Women's High Neck Tops
A high neck top is one of the simplest ways to look put together in cold weather. It keeps the chill off your neck, frames your face and works under almost everything. This guide explains the different names, why a fine roll neck layers better than a chunky knit, and how to wear one.
Turtleneck, roll neck, polo neck or mock neck?
- Turtleneck: the US name for a top with a tall, close-fitting collar that folds over.
- Roll neck: the usual UK name for the same style.
- Polo neck: an older British name, again for the same style.
- Mock neck: a shorter collar that stands up without folding over. It's a good choice if you find a full roll neck too warm or restrictive.
Our roll neck tops are made in fine jersey rather than chunky knit, so they sit smoothly under other layers and still look right on their own.
Why a fine roll neck is so useful
A chunky knitted turtleneck is a top layer: warm, but too bulky to wear under anything. A fine jersey roll neck does the opposite job. It adds warmth at the neck and arms without bulk, so you can wear it under a jumper, cardigan, blazer or coat, then take the outer layer off indoors.
Our roll necks and mock necks
- Roll Neck Micro Modal Top: our best-selling roll neck, in silky micro modal. Made in Portugal, UK sizes 8–18.
- Striped Cotton Roll Neck: a lightweight, breathable cotton roll neck with a classic stripe.
- Mock Neck Micro Modal Top: a ribbed half sleeve top with a shorter collar.
- Sleeveless Mock Neck Micro Modal Top: the same neckline without sleeves, for layering under knitwear.
Six ways to wear a roll neck
- Under a blazer: a black or navy roll neck under a blazer is smarter than a t-shirt and warmer than a shirt.
- Under a V-neck or open cardigan: the collar fills the neckline and the cardigan frames it.
- Under a crew neck jumper: let just the collar show above the jumper for a neat, layered look.
- With a pinafore or slip dress: a fine roll neck turns a summer dress into a winter outfit.
- Tucked into tailored trousers: add a belt and loafers for an easy office outfit.
- Under a wool coat: the collar keeps your neck warm, so you may not need a scarf.
For more ideas, read how to style a roll neck and what to wear under a cardigan.
How should a roll neck fit?
- Close at the neck, not tight: the collar should sit snugly without pressing on your throat.
- Fold it your way: fold the collar once for a neat line, or let it scrunch for a softer look.
- Fine fabric: a fine collar avoids the bulk a heavy knit can create under the chin.
Check the size guide for measurements.
Caring for your roll neck
Follow the care label. As a rule, wash fine jersey cool, reshape the collar while damp and dry flat or on a hanger. Avoid the tumble dryer. Fold rather than hang to keep the shoulders in shape. See our garment care guide for more.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a turtleneck and a roll neck?
None: turtleneck is the US name and roll neck is the UK name for a top with a tall collar that folds over. Polo neck is an older British name for the same thing.
What is the difference between a mock neck and a roll neck?
A mock neck has a shorter collar that stands up without folding. It gives some coverage with less warmth and less fabric at the neck.
Can you wear a roll neck to work?
Yes. A fine roll neck under a blazer or cardigan with tailored trousers or a skirt is a polished office outfit.
What can I wear over a roll neck?
A blazer, a cardigan, a crew neck jumper, a pinafore dress or a coat. A fine roll neck is slim enough to go under all of them.
Shop roll necks
Browse all women's roll neck tops and mock neck tops, read what to look for in a roll neck top, or see everything for cold days in The Layering Edit.
