On account of the modest neckline, cloaking capabilities and hickey-hiding potential, turtlenecks have a reputation as a conservative clothing choice. But as these street-style stars show, that dull distinction is unwarranted. Turtlenecks can be sexy and daring, and are easily introduced as a foundational piece in the edgiest outfits.

Many famous folks sport turtlenecks- check out this Tumblr for hilarious proof. But forget Steve Jobs' basic black top. Ignore Kim Kardashian's rubber numbers. Whether plain or as a layer in a carefully constructed look, turtlenecks are this season's transitional piece.

Fashion Week offered plenty evidence that this classic shirt is keeping it cool.

With Suits

Nothing is cleaner under a sharp suit coat than a simple turtleneck. A neutral color works well with the more technicolored suiting favored this spring. With the shirt's high neck and the collar of the coat, you'll want to forgo any heavy accessories around the face or neckline. Instead, a funky purse or some dark shades may be all you need to polish this professional look.

With Overalls

Overalls easily dominate the wearer. Fit and styling are so important with this look in order not to seem swathed in cloth. Turtlenecks keep things neat and easy. Use color to counter bold overalls with something equally eye-catching. But a neutral top works well if you plan to further layer or if your pants have a print. Try to keep your accessories and other items of clothing sparse so as not to overwhelm your silhouette.

SHOP: overalls

With a Collar Necklace

If you are wearing a turtleneck, a bold collar can enhance the sleek shirt by giving your neckline some definition. Pull your hair back to show off your statement jewelry. For the office, choose a necklace that's more metal than sparkle. But for going out, have fun: rhinestones or fringe turn this standard shirt into an elegant party piece.

SHOP: collar necklaces

Under Dresses

A turtleneck under a jumper easily adds up to schoolgirl style. It's preppy and sweet-an easy fashion A. But for those looking to inject an edgier element or wanting to experiment with dressing, a turtleneck under a peasant dress or plunging neckline raises the class average. Not only does this layer help ease the transition into warmer weather, but it adds a boyish element to sexy or frilly clothes.

With Prints

Until now, most of the Fashion Week looks we've highlighted have used turtlenecks as a neutral base on which to build. But as these vivid style stars show, turtlenecks need not act like a blank canvas. Striped turtlenecks were overwhelmingly the favorite among the fashion elite who wanted to add a pop-or a lot-of color to their outfits. And Susanna Lau (far right) offers ample evidence that stripes aren't the only way to amp up your top.

Under Bold Coats

Under a dramatic jacket or coat, the prescriptive styling was predominantly a simple white turtleneck. This one item might be all you need to refresh your spring wardrobe. With a skirt it's chic. With pants it's casually clean. Simply throw on a colorful sweater, vest or jacket and you're layered up for whatever the temps might be or become.

Under Other Shirts

Simply placed under another shirt, however, turtlenecks serve their purpose as extra protection against the elements while adding dimension to an outfit. Simple white shirts over black turtlenecks, as seen here, create contrasting layers that can't help but look cool. One piece of advice: for now, forgo wearing them under crewneck sweaters.

SHOP: turtlenecks