Ask Danny Agnew

Because every man must dress himself, and sometimes even leave the house wearing pants, we present “Ask Danny Agnew” — a series that answers your questions regarding all matters vestiary, and recurs whenever he gets around to it. Have a query? Email it to style@insidehook.com.

To turtleneck or not to turtleneck? Can’t decide if they’re cool or nerdy.

– Clark Laramie, Seattle, WA

Turtlenecks are a delicate dance: do them right and they’re a killer cold-weather look. Do them wrong and the Steve Jobs jokes last till spring. Couple general rules: first, the lighter weight the turtleneck, the more it should be layered with other pieces. For example, this heavier Woolrich cable knit¹ can stand alone, while cotton versions like this one from Uniqlo² work best under, say, a flannel popover³ and shawl collar pullover⁴. Second, turtleneck under a blazer is totally acceptable if you wear it with confidence and the turtleneck has some texture. Think Steve McQueen in Bullitt. Third, no mock turtlenecks. Ever.

What’s your policy on scarves? Do you have a go-to or do you mix it up?

– Lee Donnell, Cleveland, OH

I try to keep a solid rotation of scarves going, both to mix it up and because I frequently leave them in bars. As such, I try not to spend too much on them, though solid cashmere⁵ is tough to beat for comfort and versatility. Though they’re not quite as au courant as they were a while back, I also still favor keffiyeh-style scarves⁶ because they’re cheap, colorful and easy to wrap – you just kind of throw them every which way. Add a big chunky number⁷ and a classic plaid⁸ and you’ve got yourself a nice stable. Leave silk for the dandies.

I’m seeing more seasonal ties out there, is there such a thing as a seasonal pocket square?

– Brian Kemp, New York, NY

Indeed there is. In fact I think that’s half the fun of the changing season — it gives you the chance to put slight tweaks on the little details. Off hand, I know both Alexander Olch⁹ and The Tie Bar¹⁰ make a variety of scratchier wool hankies that add a nice element of texture. But hell, don’t stop with your pocket square: hook + ALBERT makes great autumnal lapel flowers¹¹, and if you’re not rocking a glimpse of cool woolly sock¹², you’re just not living. Go for broke.

Trouble getting dressed? Have a style query? Email it to style@insidehook.com.