Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

1 Striped Staple – 5 Ways

10.23.19

I hope you’re having a good week! Today I’m taking a look at an easy-going fall staple that I was really excited to test out and style into not 1, not 2, not 3, not even 4 but 5 different looks for the season!

One essential cold weather style that never lets me down is a classic turtleneck. They’re just such a great base for so many looks and activities and the moment the temps start pointing south I find myself reaching for them.

I was thrilled to see that my pals at Tradlands had released the Monty Turtleneck within their FW19 lineup and in a perfectly striped cotton no less. This piece was an instant hit in my closet and I wanted to share some thoughts on why this contemporary take on a classic is unique along with some ideas on how to wear it.

Let’s get to it shall we?


TRADLANDS IS GENEROUSLY OFFERING 20% OFF ALL ORDERS WITH ‘STYLEBEE20’*


*Partnership Disclosure: This blog post was produced in partnership with Tradlands and Style Bee earns a commission on all sales made using the exclusive reader discount code (at no additional cost to customers). Valid through November 6th. Code will auto apply via the links in this post or you can enter it at checkout. More details below.


STYLE BEE - 1 Fall Staple 5 Ways - With Tradlands

ABOUT

THE MONTY STRIPE TURTLENECK



I’d been on the hunt for a striped turtleneck option for ages but they’re not the easiest to come by. Luckily, this one was precisely what I’d been hoping to find and, as always, a few thoughtful design details take it to the next level. Some quick facts are below and if you’re interested keep scrolling to see my notes on what makes it special as well.

QUICK FACTS:

  • PRICE: $77 USD $61.60 USD right now – Receive 20% OFF on any Tradlands order with ‘STYLEBEE20’ until November 6th.
  • FABRIC: 95% cotton 5% spandex (to help maintain the shape and fit long-term) – The cotton is so soft and the perfect mid-weight so there is no show through and it feels very nice on.
  • MADE IN: Shanghai, China – Learn more about Tradlands thoughtful approach to everything they do here.
  • CARE: Machine wash with confidence — this only gets better with time
  • SIZE + FIT: I’m wearing the XSmall, which I often choose in cotton t-shirt styles from Tradlands. I also tried the Small, which fit well too but I preferred a slim sleeve and a bit less volume through the body. I’d say size down for a slimmer fit or take your normal size for the intended slightly relaxed fit. For reference, I’m 5’7 and about 125 lbs with a 32 in bust.
  • SIZES AVAILABLE: XXS-XXL
  • COLOUR OPTIONS: Two options available. Black & White Stripe (shown) or Grey & White Stripe

UNIQUE DESIGN DETAILS


Style Bee - 1 Fall Staple 5 Ways - With Tradlands

ROOMY, DOUBLE LAYERED NECK

I love the design of this turtleneck. It’s a little bit loose, which makes it very comfy but still nice and cozy. The double layer of soft cotton gives it a bit of structure so you can wear it folded (my preference) or leave it undone for an even more casual feel.


Style Bee - 1 Fall Staple 5 Ways - With Tradlands

BLACK & WHITE STRIPE

I instantly loved this contemporary double stripe pattern that’s a true black and white. It adds a bit of interest to any look, especially a pair of classic denim jeans. Plus, it’s not sheer at all!


Style Bee - 1 Fall Staple 5 Ways - With Tradlands

STRAIGHT FIT + TUCK-FRIENDLY LENGTH

The straight fit through the body keeps it from feeling clingy and the slightly cropped hip length makes it a breeze to tuck, which is how I like to style it. You can see it untucked in the Tradlands product listing.


Style Bee - 1 Fall Staple 5 Ways - With Tradlands

PRIORITY ON COMFORT

Overlocked interior seams are durable but smooth on the skin. Soft neck-tape + printed tags offer up maximum comfort so you’re never distracted by itchy extras.


Style Bee - 1 Fall Staple 5 Ways - With Tradlands

SLIM FIT SLEEVES

While there is room in the torso the sleeves on this piece were designed with layering in mind so they’re slim fitting (but not tight) & easily slide into sweaters and coats.


SHOP THE MONTY STRIPED TURTLENECK

20% discount code will automatically apply at checkout


Now let’s take a look at 5 different ways I’ve been, and plan to be, wearing the Monty Stripe Turtleneck!


LOOK 1

90’s Denim + Camel Coat + Suede Pumps + Box Bag

Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands
Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

As I waited patiently for Monty to arrive, this was one of the outfits I couldn’t wait to get into. In fact, I actually wore it right out the door after I’d finished photographing this post. What can I say, few combos deliver in a way that denim, stripes and camel do!

This outfit is ideal for an average workday. It’s polished and sophisticated while still feeling super comfy and ready for whatever the day (or night) has in store. None of the elements are fussy or confining but it still has plenty of structure and clean lines.


LOOK 1 SOURCES: MONTY TURTLENECK gifted (Wearing an XS) Receive 20% OFF at TRADLANDS with ‘STYLEBEE20’ through Nov 6.

COAT (Wearing a Small) // JEANS (wash sold out) very similar option here // DAY HEEL gifted (TTS wearing my usual US7) // BOX BAG gifted MINOR HISTORY


LOOK 2

Cozy Cardigan + Silk Pant + Beanie + Suede Boot + Vintage Bag

Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands
Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

This look almost came together without me even realizing. I’d been setting items on my desk throughout the week and noticed that the cool grey palette and mix of textures was really pleasing. At first I thought a grey beanie with a grey cardigan might be too much but after trying it all on I kind of loved how intentional it made the outfit feel.

In fact, every element of this look has a matching counterpart. The grey knits give lots of texture, the deep red accessories add a luxurious note and the black stripes and silk pants keep it grounded.

This is another great workday look for me but it’s also a great one for weekend activities or travelling at this time of year. You could also toss the coat from look 1 on top if it was particularly cold out.


LOOK 2 SOURCES: MONTY TURTLENECK gifted (Wearing an XS) & SHELTER CARDIGAN gifted (Wearing a S) Receive 20% OFF at TRADLANDS with ‘STYLEBEE20’ through Nov 6.

FLORENCE PANT (wearing a M Regular in silk) // CARIE BOOTS (50% OFF & weatherproof!) // BAG vintage (linked to one I LOVE) // CASHMERE BEANIE


LOOK 3

Plaid Blazer + Mini Skirt + Tights + Boots + Large Tote

Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands
Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

LAYERING TIP:

When you’re wearing tights with a top and a skirt try tucking the top into the waistband of your tights. Then the top won’t move around or bunch up and your skirt can sit more comfortably over both pieces.


I’m pretty smitten with how this look came together and since I don’t mix patterns all that often, it’s a bit of a thrill when I do! I was thinking about how I might style the Monty Turtleneck for a work meeting or presentation and this was what I landed on.

Without the blazer it’s still a cute fall look, and you could totally add a leather jacket, trench or peacoat. In fact, I tried those too. But when I saw how the plaid blazer paired with the stripes I couldn’t be swayed.

The base of this look is all black and the top is quite a stark contrast, so adding some warm tones with the blazer, belt and bag seemed like a good way to soften the palette overall. As usual, I made sure my sleeves peeked out beneath the jacket and I scrunched up the arms for a creative touch on this corporate number.


LOOK 3 SOURCES: MONTY TURTLENECK gifted (Wearing an XS) Receive 20% OFF at TRADLANDS with ‘STYLEBEE20’ through Nov 6.

BLAZER (linked to similar) // BELT // SKIRT gifted (Wearing a 4) // TIGHTS gifted (wearing a M and I LOVE these tights) // BOSS BOOTS gifted in 2017 (TTS wearing my usual US7) // TOTE (linked to similar)


LOOK 4

Flared Jeans + Wool Duster Vest + Printed Boots + Leather Headband

Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands
Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

This look is a mash up of old favourites and new patterns and I really enjoyed how the shapes and tones came together. I can’t help but love a classic flared jean (this pair is over 5 years old!) and in this instance I’m giving them a new lease on life with some elements of pattern, a few fresh accessories and an intriguing wool vest.

I like pairing flares with other a-line shapes like this duster vest because it creates an interesting sense of proportion and repetition. In this case, with the volume being on the lower half of the look the stripes earn their, well, stripes lol, because they help to draw the eye upward and balance the visuals nicely.

I added my brown leather headband for a bit of femininity, a taupe mini tote for monochrome repetition and a pair of snake print ankle boots for surprise pop of interest. I’ll be wearing this one to a meeting on Friday!


LOOK 4 SOURCES: MONTY TURTLENECK gifted (Wearing an XS) Receive 20% OFF at TRADLANDS with ‘STYLEBEE20’ through Nov 6.

FLARED JEANS old (updated here and here) // DUSTER VEST old gifted (linked to similar) // BAG sold out (linked to similar) // BOOTS (TTS I’m wearing an EU 38) // HEADBAND


LOOK 5

90’s Denim + Cozy Cardigan + Black Boots + Sculptural Bag

Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands
Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

Last but not least by any means, is look number 5! I didn’t overthink this one and was reminded that easy styling, a simple palette and classic fits just never fail. Why fix what ain’t broke right?

I’ve seen a lot of stylish folks rocking the sweater over the shoulders look lately and decided to give it a whirl myself. Now I’m totally hooked on this trick! It’s been perfect for the fickle weather we’re having when it’s not cold enough for an extra layer but not warm enough to skip it all-together either. The thick, textural knit of this cardigan keeps it from slipping but you could tie the sleeves in front to secure it even more.

I rarely find myself in a look that has no brown tones but this one has inspired me to try it out more often!


LOOK 5 SOURCES: MONTY TURTLENECK gifted (Wearing an XS) & SHELTER CARDIGAN gifted (Wearing a S) Receive 20% OFF at TRADLANDS with ‘STYLEBEE20’ through Nov 6.

JEANS (wash sold out) very similar option here // BOSS BOOTS gifted in 2017 (TTS wearing my usual US7) // LUMEN NECKLACE // BAG old (linked to similar)


Style Bee - 1 Staple Piece - 5 Ways - With Tradlands

Thanks for tuning in folks!

Which of these looks is your favourite?


Remember to use ‘STYLEBEE20’ on any Tradlands order including all sale section pieces and other classic gems like these:


EXPLORE THE FULL TRADLANDS COLLECTION

Discount will automatically apply via link above.


PARTNERSHIP DETAILS: The Tradlands pieces shown above were gifted or loaned as part of this partnership and Style Bee earns a commission on sales made using the reader discount code ‘STYLEBEE20’ (at no additional cost to customers). 20% discount is valid through November 6th.

 This post contains affiliate links and if you see a piece you like and decide to shop via the links above I may earn a commission. Thanks for your interest in discovering and supporting the thoughtful brands that support Style Bee!

Leave me a comment here!

  1. Sarah says:

    Hello! LOVE your blog–I live in Toronto, so I appreciate your take on below-zero fashion! 🙂 I’m curious about the Shop the Curated camel coat you’re wearing in Look 1. Has it been holding up thus far?

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks Sarah! I have been loving The Curated coat so far! It’s quite warm and very wearable for lots of walking, travel and other activities. The cashmere is thick and soft and very cozy. I’ve been meaning to share a more thorough review but it definitely has my stamp of approval! xo

  2. Sarah Winton says:

    Great styling as always! You can’t go wrong with a cozy turtle neck for winter.

  3. VespaTime says:

    Hi there,
    Have you or your followers found an alternative to the Elizabeth Suzann Florence Pant? Maybe a style from Grana, Eileen Fisher, Jamie & the Jones, or Amour Vert? The fabric on mine wore into several see-through patches after light wear, but I love the wide leg and flowy silhouette, so I’m trying to look for a higher quality replacement.

    Thanks!

  4. Kate says:

    Yay! This turtleneck has been on my list of potential purchases for this fall. I’m glad I waited to buy it until today!

  5. Baily says:

    I LOVE that brown leather headband on you and have been eyeing it for a while. How does it fit? I have a fairly large head and am worried it’s going to be too tight.

    Love your blog!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks Baily!! I find it very comfortable. I’ve worn it all day before because I forgot it was on. The band seems very flexible, it’s not stretched much on my head (I wear a small in most hat brands) and has plenty of give left. I’m not sure what the inner form is made of but it doesn’t have the hard plastic feel of other headbands I’ve had. I hope that helps! xo