What is a round neck

Short answer: A crew neck follows a circle around the neck. It is the most common neckline and suits the most situations, both on its own and under another layer. The height of the neckline and the quality of the edge decide how it fits over time.

The most neutral shape

A crew neck works on its own and under a layer, and it suits every body type. The shape does not pull attention in any direction, so it is a safe choice for everyday wear, work and home. It is also the neckline most people own the most of. See men's bamboo undershirts.

Height makes the difference

A high crew neck sits close to the neck and looks closed and calm. A low crew neck gives more air and sits slightly further down the chest. Both are called crew necks, but they feel different in use. A high neckline keeps warmth in better, while a low one feels freer on warm days. See the bamboo tank tops for men.

The edge must hold its shape

The edge decides whether a crew neck still looks good after many washes. A crew neck in rib with a little elastane keeps closing snugly, because the rib can give and pull back again. A fabric without that spring can start to ripple and stand away from the neck over time. See the bamboo hoodies for men.

A crew neck under a layer

Under a jumper or a hoodie, a crew neck works well as the inner layer. It covers the neck and protects the skin from a rougher fabric on top. Under a shirt with an open collar, though, the edge can peek out just below the throat. If you want to avoid that, a V-neck is the better choice there.

Crew neck or V-neck

A crew neck follows a circle and covers more, while a V-neck runs down to a point and opens up the chest. A crew neck looks a little more closed and relaxed, a V-neck a little more open. Neither is more correct than the other. The choice depends on how you wear the garment.

Why the edge goes slack

A neck edge goes slack when the rib knit and elastane lose their tension. It happens gradually over many washes, and faster if the garment is dried on high heat. The heat strains the elastic fibres. Pulling a top off by the neck also stretches the edge a little every time.

Washing that protects the edge

Wash at a low temperature, ideally inside out, and leave the tumble dryer alone. Ease the neck edge into shape while damp and let the garment dry flat or on a hanger. Take the top off by gripping the back rather than the neck. Small habits like these keep the edge in shape much longer.

How to choose

Think about how you will wear the garment. If it will be worn alone, a crew neck in your usual size is the obvious choice. As an inner layer under a jumper, both a high and a low crew neck work well. Do not choose a size too small, or the edge will be stretched from the start.

Frequently asked questions

What is a crew neck

A neckline that follows a circle around the neck, unlike a V-neck, which runs down to a point at the front and opens up more of the chest.

Why does the neck edge go slack

Because the rib knit and elastane lose tension after many washes, especially if the garment is dried on high heat or often pulled off by the neck.

Can you tighten a slack neck edge

No, not permanently. Once the elastic in the edge has lost its tension, it does not come back by itself. Gentle washing is therefore the best way to prevent it.