Before there were influencers, there was the food court. Before TikTok hauls, there was Contempo Casuals. And before fast fashion became a click away, your entire fall wardrobe lived at the mall—anchored by one staple piece: the deep V-neck sweater.

Soft. Slouchy. Slightly oversized. These sweaters—especially in dreamy pastels and rich autumn hues—were the crown jewels of every ’80s teen closet. You might have owned one from Forenza (sold at The Limited), Esprit, or Benneton, layered over a white tee or a button-up shirt with the collar popped and paired with your tightest Guess jeans. (Bonus points if your bangs were three inches high and held in place by enough Aqua Net to trigger a small weather system.)

And here’s the thing: they’re back.

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What’s Behind the Comeback?

Designers and fashion folks alike are rediscovering the joy of the plunging V. (See our previous post on the allure of the V-neck cardigan here.) Today’s versions aren’t quite as aggressively batwinged as the ones of yore (though we’re not mad if they are), but they echo the same casual glamor: low necklines, loose fits, and major “oh this old thing?” energy.

The deep V is having a moment because it’s versatile. It’s flattering. And it layers like a dream—whether you’re throwing it over a silk tank, a fitted mock-neck, a crisp collared shirt, or a simple tee (just like you did in homeroom). Modern knits are often chunkier, textured, or slightly cropped, but the vibe is unmistakably vintage.

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How to Style It (Then vs. Now)

1985	2025
Over a white crewneck tee	Over a tee or worn pulled up on the shoulders for more coverage
With a button-up and popped collar	With a flowy blouse or on its own
With high-rise acid wash jeans	With high-waisted wide-leg trousers
Worn loose over a mini skirt	French-tucked into pleated or tailored pants
With boat shoes or ballet flats	With loafers, sneakers, or block-heeled boots
Hair feathered and sprayed	Hair tousled and air-dried (or faked to look that way)

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Why It Still Works

There’s something undeniably pretty about clothes that don’t try too hard. And these sweaters strike that balance between nostalgic and wearable. They’re roomy without being shapeless, feminine without being fussy, and stylish without screaming for attention.

Maybe we’re craving comfort. Maybe Gen Z finally discovered our yearbook photos. Or maybe fashion just couldn’t resist circling back to a sweater so iconic it practically demands a solo at karaoke night.

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Where to Get the Look: Modern Brands Doing It Right

• Sezane – Their knitwear has a vintage French twist. Look for deep V cardigans or oversized pullovers.
• & Other Stories – Clean cuts with subtle drama.
• Everlane – Minimalist and sustainable, with great neutral tones.
• Free People – For that loose, laid-back vibe in updated colors and textures.

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Vintage Snapshot

This photo from the 1980s (shoutout to our editor’s brave friend for sharing—minus the hair!) shows how the deep V was meant to be worn: roomy, layered, and unmistakably cool. Also pictured: an enthusiastic hand gesture that says “rock on” or possibly “please stop playing Journey.”

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Final Thought

The deep V isn’t just a neckline. It’s a mood. It’s the soft hug of a sweater that saw you through math class, mall runs, and maybe your first heartbreak. And as it turns out, it’s just as stylish today—minus the crimping iron.

So pull one on. Leave it loose or give it a casual tuck. Mix in a little nostalgia. And get ready for compliments.

*Featured Image at top of post: Cora Pursley/Dupe