Photos: The Social Shopper: January 26, 2013

When mercury levels plunge across the country, the turtleneck sweater is the obvious go-to for fending off frigid temps. But, this isn’t just any old layering piece. It also has a storied place in fashion history that renders it just as iconic as the women who’ve worn it well. Cue Ali MacGraw’s campus chic in Love Story, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy strolling the streets of Soho with John Jr., or Audrey Hepburn’s beatnik perfection in Funny Face. Even before all these leading ladies, Lana Turner inspired the phrase “sweater girl” with her daringly fitted knits. So whether you’re going for a classic look or channeling Sharon Stone’s red-carpet rebellion à la the Gap turtleneck she wore to the 1996 Oscars, this closet staple is straight-up sophistication when paired with a braided shopper, studded oxfords, or a double-breasted blazer—so bundle up!