Have you ever owned an item of clothing that is so cozy, you want to curl up in it on the couch at home… but that’s also so chic that it garners compliments wherever you take it? This waffle cashmere turtleneck from Hatch is that staple piece in my closet — I’ve worn it constantly (including on every single flight of my book tour) since adding it to my wardrobe in the fall, and its cocoon shape somehow managed to be as flattering then as it is now, when it comfortably skims over my growing baby bump.
When we started our Essential Pieces series (in which I search out the best versions of the classic pieces every gal should have in her closet), I knew that I wanted to include a camel turtleneck in the lineup. Whether it’s a curve-hugging body-con fit, or an oversized tunic like this one, a camel turtleneck always feels chic, pulled-together, and timeless. I love the textural waffle weave and luxe material of this one, and once I tried it on, its miraculous ability to flatter all shapes and sizes immediately made it the one. 
The secret to keeping an oversized sweater from looking bulky? Pair with fitted pieces underneath and sleek shoes that keep the entire look streamlined. Since the sweater is so long, I actually wore it with opaque black tights and over-the-knee leather boots so that everything except the sweater was really trim.
We shot this look with Wynn Myers at the gorgeous bar in one of my favorite Austin spots, Hotel Saint Cecilia. Even when you’re just sipping on a grapefruit juice (like me, currently) stepping through the doors of this magical spot is the coolest way to spend an afternoon… or preferably, an entire weekend.
Shop the links below for everything I’m wearing in this look, plus a few other neutral turtlenecks I’m loving this season. And I’d love to hear in the comments: what sweater do you consider “essential” to your wardrobe every winter?
