When chilly air starts to settle in, turtlenecks tend to become a wardrobe staple. But while these cozy winter garments warm our bones, they can also cause unintentional hair problems: If loose strands get caught in the high neck of your top, tangles, breakage, and long-term hair damage can abound. The good news is that picking a friction-reducing hairstyle—think soft, controlled updos or loose, protective plaits—can easily keep damage at bay. This way, you can stop strand snags while still enjoying the warmth and stylish sophistication that a turtleneck offers. If you need some styling inspo, here are eight looks we’ll have on rotation during hibernation season.
8 of the Best Hairstyles for Turtlenecks
High, Slicked Bun
A smooth bun is the ideal solution for keeping hair off your neck and free from the fabric of your turtleneck. Placing it on the crown of your head minimizes friction, and a touch of firm control hair gel like Mizani True Textures Sleek Holding Gel will ensure a sleek, polished finish.
Good hair day by @thelovelyhairclass.
Bouncy Ponytail
These days, ponytail hairstyles are anything but basic. This retro-inspired style with flipped-out ends is the perfect way to elevate your look and keep your hair out of your turtleneck's way. Be sure to apply a heat protectant before flaring your ends with your chosen hot tool—we love Matrix Miracle Creator Multi-Tasking Hair Treatment because it restores moisture, which is just what hair needs in cold, dry weather.
Good hair day by @theindiahoward.
Space Buns
Space buns put the ‘fun’ in functional, allowing your stands to remain knot-free while adding a whimsical touch to your winter style. Get the step-by-step tutorial for this trendy hairstyle in our article, How to Style Space Buns in 6 Easy Steps.
Good hair day by @racheltriller.
Messy French Twist
The undone French twist offers a stylish, approachable alternative to the traditional version. With its relaxed, imperfect twists, it’s easy to recreate, even for beginners. Simply gather your hair brush, a few bobby pins, and a hairspray (we’re partial to the Biolage Professional Complete Control Hairspray), then hit “play” on the tutorial above.
Good hair day by @curlsandpurpose.
Bubble Braids
Bubble braids are a style that involves placing spaced-out elastics down the length of your hair. This helps tame your strands, preventing constant rubbing against turtlenecks and keeping your hair from blowing in the wind. Best of all, bubble braids are highly customizable—you can adjust the size, number, and spacing of the bubbles to yield a look that's uniquely yours.
Good hair day by @myguiltycrown.
Swishy Pigtails
Take your turtleneck style from prim to playful with the help of high pigtails. If you’re skeptical about the style skewing juvenile, pick up a pair of shaggy, clip-in bangs to give your look an edgier vibe. Or, if you already have bangs, use a texturizing pomade to achieve that covetable piece-y texture. Our pick: Shu Uemura Art of Hair Nendo Definer Hair Pomade.
Good hair day by @thisislaurendavis.
Dutch Braid Crown
A crown braid is an elegant way to upgrade your look for special occasions. And, when you use the underhanded Dutch braiding technique, your plaits are sure to stand out with bold, eye-catching detail. Catch the full tutorial in the caption above—just be sure to slip on your turtleneck before attempting this look so you don’t spoil your hard work.
Good hair day by @thebangsbabe.
Chin-Length Bob
The easiest way to stop locks from getting caught in a high-neck top? Chop them off! Have your stylist snip your hair into a statement-making bob that rests around your chin. If you’ve been dealing with major hair damage, this may be just the sign you need to give your strands a fresh slate.
Next Up: 35 Best Cute Hairstyles You Can Easily Achieve At Home
Header photo credit: Adobe Stock
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