What is a badlon?
Badlon A turtleneck is a thin, close-fitting, fine-knit sweater with a high collar that covers the neck. In modern Russian, this term is a regional synonym for the word "turtleneck," historically entrenched in the lexicon of St. Petersburg residents.
The term originates from the American brand name of Ban-Lon, a synthetic fiber. In the USSR, imported turtlenecks made from this material were mass-produced in the 1960s and 1970s.
In colloquial speech, the word "banlon" transformed into "badlon" and became a household word. Today, it is used to describe any thin knitted turtleneck sweater, regardless of the fabric composition.
Distinctive features
The turtleneck's main feature is its high turtleneck collar. It fits snugly around the neck and is usually rolled up once or twice.
The garment has a fitted or semi-fitted silhouette that follows the contours of the body, unlike bulky winter sweaters. Classic turtlenecks are made from smooth knits, viscose, cotton with elastane, fine merino wool, or cashmere blends.
The turtleneck sleeves are long and narrow, typically lacking wide cuffs or elastic at the wrists. The collar has no fastenings, buttons, or zippers. The presence of a short zipper makes the sweatshirt resemble a tracksuit or polo shirt.
What to combine with
In a business wardrobe, a turtleneck serves as a base layer under a classic jacket, an oversized suit, or a tweed jacket. In smart-casual looks, it successfully replaces a formal shirt.
In layered outfits, a thin sweater is worn under a heavy button-down shirt, a voluminous cardigan, a V-neck vest, or a sundress. Smooth, fine knitwear pairs well with thicker bottoms, such as leather skirts, corduroy pants, or heavy denim.
A fitted top balances out wide palazzo pants, straight-leg jeans, or midi-length A-line skirts. In these combinations, the turtleneck is typically tucked in with a voluminous bottom.
