The New V-Neck Rules

Once relegated to the back of the closet, the V-neck sweater has staged a confident return for Fall 2025. After years of being overshadowed by crewnecks and hoodies, the '90s revival breathed new life into this once-stuffy staple. Designers and brands have reimagined it with a fresher, looser silhouette, shedding the overly preppy associations of the past. What was once a sweater your dad wore over a button-down is now one of the sharpest layering pieces you can own.

Why does it work so well now? These new V-necks are familiar and yet feel like something we haven't seen in a while. The details make all the difference—the collars are bolder and more defined, intentionally pronounced but not plunging. Some versions are cropped to hit at the waist, making them ideal for pairing with higher-rise trousers or relaxed denim. Others keep things classic but play with textures, oversized fits or unexpected knits. The result is a sweater that feels both nostalgic and distinctly modern, wearable for work, nights out, and of course, casual weekends.

The best part? The new V-neck is more versatile than ever. It works in a myriad of ways and looks exponentially more interesting than its crewneck counterparts. Throw it on over a plain tee for a laid-back look, or wear it solo under a jacket with a sharp pair of pants for an understated statement. And as an added bonus, that wider collar works to visually broaden your chest, making your shoulders appear a little wider and your pecs look a bit more muscular. Here are the best options worth investing in this year.

Autumn always brings a shift, not just in weather, but in how we think about dressing. And according to the team at MR PORTER, Fall 2025 is about layering smart, investing in pieces that feel both fresh from the runway and seamlessly wearable day to day. Think versatile staples that work as easily with a T-shirt as they do under a tailored coat. From textured knits and elevated shirting to relaxed denim and transitional outerwear, these are the building blocks that let you shift effortlessly between crisp mornings, mild afternoons and cool evenings. Consider them the modern essentials: designed for now, and yet classic enough to last well beyond the season.