Only a few combinations are as reliable as a V-neck and jeans
Is there a more classic combo than a good V-neck and jeans? It’s a casual pairing, but there’s a certain degree of polish to this particular knit. “It’s a neckline that unites those who consider it a corporate styling staple and the fashion devotees who like to reference Miuccia Prada,” wrote Alice Cary for British Vogue earlier this year, after crowning the V-neck 2025’s “stand-out knit”. Indeed, on the spring/summer 2026 runways, everyone from Loewe to Christian Dior made a case for the preppy style, while V-necks from the likes of Prada, Bottega Veneta and The Row remain A-list staples.
While V-necks can be styled with everything from suit trousers to printed midi-skirts and cargo pants, there’s a specific deliciousness to a low-key V-neck and jeans. Think: cashmere grey knits with Levi’s 501s, or a plunging black sweater with some stiff selvedge turn-ups. To that end, with many more months of winter ahead (sorry), find a few pointers on how to style this winter’s cool-girl uniform below.
A splash of colour
Just because you’re wearing a V-neck doesn’t mean you have to go full corporate mode, or only opt for blacks and greys – plenty of street-stylers have been spotted in autumnal reds, oranges and vivid mustard tones. The exposed neckline also means you can show off some layered silver jewellery, as above.
Masculine earth tones
“Boring” grey knits were arguably the most dominant knitwear trend across the autumn/winter 2025 collections, and they’ve also been a hit with the street-style set. One of my favourite styling tricks is going masculine with the colours and fit, as above, with a slash of feminine make-up or hair to balance things out.
Head-to-toe classic
Wearing a uniform to school mostly sucked (what was with the itchy fabric, and why were they always disgusting colours like purple?) Wearing a uniform in your 20s, 30s and beyond, however? Nearly always immaculate. Pair with a crisp white shirt and a leather belt for that extra office day polish.
Oversized everything
We often think of V-necks as being thin and fitted, but an oversized V-neck can work wonders – yes, even with a pair of baggy jeans. The secret to making this combo work? Opt for darker colours (no one wants to resemble a clown) and formal staples, like loafers and/or a leather handbag, to smarten up the whole ensemble.
Preppy Noughties
There’s something delectably Noughties about a V-neck and boot-cut jeans – like a preppy New England collegiate at the weekend, or someone from Gossip Girl on their way to the library. Pair with lace-up Derbies and some wired headphones, and you’ll be ready to tackle anything.
