Crewneck

A crewneck is a garment featuring a rounded, close-fitting neckline that sits at the base of the neck. The term is most commonly used for sweaters, sweatshirts, and T-shirts that lack a collar and have a simple circular neckline. The design is valued for its clean, minimalist silhouette and its versatility across genders and ages.

Construction and variations: The neckline is typically finished with rib knit to retain shape and prevent stretching. Garments can range from slim-fit to oversized. Variants include cropped crewnecks, boxy oversized styles, and weighted or fleece-lined crewneck sweatshirts. In knitwear, the yarn weight and stitch pattern affect drape and texture.

Origins and naming: The name is widely believed to derive from garments worn by rowing crews, where a rounded neckline allowed greater freedom of movement. The crew neck appeared in sports- and university-inspired knitwear in the 19th and early 20th centuries and later became a standard feature of casual sweaters and T-shirts.

Materials and care: Cotton is common for T-shirts and lightweight pullovers; wool, cotton blends, and synthetic fibers are used for sweaters and fleece sweatshirts. Care depends on material: most cottons machine wash, wool and delicate knits require gentler handling or hand washing, and high heat should be avoided to prevent shrinking.

Uses and styling: A crewneck is a staple of casual wear and baselayers, worn alone or layered under jackets, coats, or outerwear. Colors range from basic neutrals to bold hues, and the neckline can vary slightly in width to suit different body types and fashion preferences.