Timed to New York Fashion Week, J.Crew announced five interpretations of its classic rollneck sweater, which was first introduced nearly 40 years ago. The retailer invited five emerging, influential American designers—the talent behind BUCI NYC, Collina Strada, Eckhaus Latta, Patrick Taylor, and Tanner Fletcher—to cast the article through their lens. The result is a collection of five ultra-limited pieces available online and at an immersive pop-up experience at 75 Spring Street in New York.
Each designer successfully infused their signature aesthetic—though designers Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kasell of Tanner Fletcher maximized nostalgic charm through the introduction of a classic sailor flap tie to the piece.
“The Rollneck is such a familiar piece that we wanted to approach it with new curiosity. Our aesthetic is rooted in classic Americana, romantic detailing, and storytelling, and we often think about designing clothes the same way we think about interior design,” the designers share with Surface. “It’s about balance, layering, and knowing when to add the right amount of decoration to make a space feel special without overwhelming it.”
In fact, the interior design parallel continues. “We treated the Rollneck as a foundation, then ‘decorated’ it. Our version has an attached sailor flap with crochet lace trim work surrounding the perimeter of the flap and tie,” they continue. “From the start, it was important that the piece could be worn by both men and women, allowing the design to feel open, expressive, and natural. The result is a sweater that feels familiar and comfortable, but carries a sense of authenticity and romance that’s distinctly Tanner Fletcher.” It’s a highlight drawn from a meticulously thought-out capsule that demonstrates the dynamic nature of the rollneck.
