The turtleneck (also called the polo neck, roll neck, or skivvy in New Zealand and Australia) traces back to the 15th century, when knights wore high-collared garments under chainmail armour. Over the next 600 years it evolved through fishermen, naval officers, intellectuals, and finally became a global icon thanks to figures like Steve Jobs.
The turtleneck skivvy is a garment with a close-fitting collar that folds over and covers the neck. It can be worn by men and women, and it comes in various styles, colours, and materials. But where did this versatile and cosy piece of clothing come from? And why is it so popular among some of the most influential people in the world?
The origins of the turtleneck skivvy
The turtleneck has a long history dating back to the 15th century. It was originally designed to protect the necks of knights and soldiers wearing heavy armour and chainmail, which could rub and chafe the skin. Royalty also adopted high-neck fashion, with the height and volume of the neck ruffle indicating status.
In the late 19th century, the turtleneck became common workwear for fishermen, manual workers, athletes, sailors, and naval officers. It was practical, warm, and durable, and helped conceal social class. Among the famous figures of the period who wore them: Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen, French poet Charles Baudelaire, and Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.
The rise of the turtleneck as a fashion statement
In the early 20th century, the turtleneck gained popularity among artists, intellectuals, and activists who used it to challenge social conventions. It became a symbol of resistance, simplicity, and modesty — and was adopted by figures across the political spectrum, from Vladimir Lenin to Malcolm X to Michel Foucault.
The turtleneck also became a fashionable item for wealthy young men inspired by European film stars like Marcello Mastroianni and Yves Montand. It was seen as a sophisticated alternative to the traditional shirt and tie. Elvis Presley, Sean Connery, Brigitte Bardot and Greta Garbo all embraced the look.
The turtleneck in the modern era
Through the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the turtleneck remained versatile and widely worn — adopted by hip hop, grunge, normcore, and minimalist movements alike, and worn by influential figures across politics, business, science, and entertainment.
The most iconic modern turtleneck wearer is Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, who wore a black turtleneck with jeans and sneakers as his uniform for almost every public appearance. He chose it for simplicity and consistency — a personal identity that mirrored his vision for his company. The turtlenecks themselves were made for him by Japanese designer Issey Miyake, in a rumoured run of around 100.
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson also famously wore a turtleneck in the 1990s, in a look that was rediscovered and parodied widely in 2017.
Practical benefits of a turtleneck
Beyond style, a well-made turtleneck is a practical garment:
- Keeps the neck and chest warm by trapping heat at the collar.
- Protects the neck from sun exposure (a often-overlooked source of UV damage).
- Eliminates the need for a scarf in cold conditions.
- Layers cleanly under jackets, jumpers, blazers, and coats.
- Creates a vertical line on the body that elongates the silhouette.
The Brass Monkeys merino turtleneck skivvy
The Brass Monkeys Turtleneck Skivvy is made in New Zealand from 100% merino wool, sourced from ethical farms with strict animal welfare standards. The collar can be folded or worn full — it works as a base layer under jackets and shirts, or as a standalone piece. The merino keeps it warm without bulk, breathable in changing temperatures, and odour-resistant for long days of wear.
Frequently asked questions
Is a skivvy the same as a turtleneck?
Yes. "Skivvy" is the New Zealand and Australian term for the same garment Americans call a turtleneck and the British call a polo neck or roll neck. The collar styles vary slightly (mock neck, full roll, fold-over), but they're all the same family of garment.
Who invented the turtleneck?
No single person. The high-collared garment evolved gradually from medieval armour padding into civilian clothing over several centuries. By the late 1800s it was common workwear for fishermen and sailors; by the 1950s it was high fashion.
Why do people associate Steve Jobs with the turtleneck?
Jobs wore a black mock-turtleneck designed by Issey Miyake as his daily uniform for nearly two decades, including all major Apple keynotes. The visual consistency made the garment iconic by association.
Is a merino turtleneck warm enough for winter?
For everyday winter wear, yes — merino traps body heat and the high collar prevents heat escaping at the neck, which is one of the body's main heat-loss points. For alpine cold, layer it under a jacket or coat as part of a complete layering system.
Can a turtleneck be worn under a shirt?
A fine merino turtleneck (around 18–19 microns) is thin enough to layer under a regular shirt or blazer without bulk. It replaces the role of a scarf and adds genuine warmth to office wear.
How do I wash a merino turtleneck?
Cool gentle cycle with wool detergent, then dry flat. Don't tumble dry. Folding it over a chair to dry can stretch the collar — lay it on a towel instead.
To buy a Brass Monkeys merino turtleneck, see the product page here.
