In a surprising new twist, the fashion world has reinvented another staple clothing piece – the turtleneck. Traditionally for the preppy, the style has taken a new fresh approach and can now be both feminine and chic. 

Swiss fashion label Akris, founded by Alice Kriemler-Schoch, created a minimalistic black turtleneck dress. The sleeveless ensemble has thick non-symmetrical piping in horizontal stripes down the front of the dress. The slight A-line ruffled hem gives it a softer look. 

Straying away from the safe "black” colour of turtlenecks, French designer Jean Paul Gaultier crafted a wide turtleneck batwing floral bodycon dress. The body conscious skirt and the wide sleeves on the top are an excellent balance. The peaches, burgundies and deep purples of the floral design create an antique look, while the silhouette of the dress keep it modern. 

Also keeping a high dial on colour, one of the most favourite American designers, Marc Jacobs, did not disappoint with his bright purple turtleneck wool dress. The vibrant colour has an overlay of black and white striped flowers for an edgy clash. He added a belt for a more daytime look. 

Another American designer, Nicole Miller, praised for her affordable and fashionable bridal line, created a black long sleeve turtleneck dress. The thick leather hem, also on trend, gives it a contemporary feel. And yet, it was Italian brand Emilio Pucci who hit the home run.

The designer brilliantly crafted together multiple trends to make one gorgeous piece. He combined the trending turtleneck with a long-sleeve mini dress with a kaleidoscope symmetric print on the front. The on point dress’s black and white visual appeal calls for black suede booties as an accessory. 

Fashionistas are picking up this trend quickly. Although they are staying in the neutral colour family, they are getting creative with fabrics and presentations. American actress Jessica Alba wore a stunning Fendi sleeveless turtleneck dress. The contrasting fabrics of the black faux fur ensemble and large black leather belt give it a proper modern feel. She paired with black satin pumps. 

American iconic actress, Gwyneth Paltrow, wore a crème silk shantung turtleneck dress to a recent award gala. The pleating on the skirt gives it a more flirty, fun feel. She paired with gold peep toe heels. UK model and socialite Alexa Chung wore a Bella Freud dress for a night out on the town. The textured champagne fabric spiced up the look. She paired with gold ankle strap pumps. 

To keep this look contemporary, take a cue from the stars and try to stick to neutral colours. Play around with different textures and unique fabrics. Also wear sleeveless or short sleeves to avoid the traditional preppy look. It is especially important to wear heels with this look to keep the entire ensemble looking chic. 

That’s the fashion scoop for this week. Got a thought? Trend? Style you hate? Send it my way. 

Rachel Breaux is an American living in Rwanda