Are Dudley Stephens Worth The Price?

Considering a Dudley Stephens fleece? Here is my honest Dudley Stephens review, including if they’re worth the price and durability.

Before we moved to Washington, D.C., I knew I was going to have to invest in some warmer clothing. Nearly everything in my closet was for a tropical climate, which makes sense since we have called Hawaii home for a decade. The only thing I knew for sure was that I only wanted a few staple pieces that were versatile enough for me to dress up or down. I was introduced to Dudley Stephens after seeing a friend post one of their turtlenecks. After doing a little bit of research, I invested in one and after one year of use, I’m sharing my full Dudley Stephens review. 

My Honest Dudley Stephens Review

My friend Katie is who initially introduced me to the brand, which was founded by two sisters in Connecticut. Dudley Stephens is a fashion company that specializes in chic turtlenecks with a “signature standup collar.”

What initially stood out to me about the styles was that the turtlenecks were sturdy enough to stand up on their own without being super tight against your neck. I loved the look, but I worried I would be too sweaty, that the material would eventually pill and/or that it would look too much like a sweatshirt. I waited for awhile before ordering my first Dudley Stephens, but eventually decided to try the Greenpoint Turtleneck in Black Terry Fleece.

I paid full price for my fleece ($158), but they sometimes have sales (particularly around the holidays – more on that later). Shipping was quick and the first thing I noticed when I took it out of the bag was that the collar really does stay up on its own. I don’t know why that was such a selling point to me. I also realized pretty quickly I could dress it up with jeans, or down with leggings, which was my full intention since I invested in one on the premise of having a versatile piece of clothing. Actually, the first time I wore mine was tucked into leather pants with a belt for my birthday dinner at Rose’s Luxury (fancy) and the second time was while running errands with leggings (not fancy).

Since I got my initial fleece, I’ve worn it at least once a week. I’ve both washed it myself (inside out, warm water, hang to dry) and had it dry cleaned. It hasn’t pilled, shrank and most importantly – it doesn’t make me a sweaty mess. In fact, it sort of makes me feel pulled together even when I’m….very much not. 

Are Dudley Stephens Worth The Price?

After having my fleece for over a year, I can honestly say yes, they are worth every penny, specifically if you live in a region that experiences seasons. Here in Washington, DC I have found myself wearing mine in winter, spring and fall, which is a big range of seasons for any one closet item. I think they are comfortable and durable, but bonus points for them being so versatile.

As you probably noticed, there is one photo of me in a bright pink version, which was my second purchase – the Greenpoint Turtleneck in Neon Pink. I’ve gotten so much wear out of the black one, that I thought it might be fun to order a second in a color that is more “me” so I treated myself during the company’s Black Friday sale. And so far, it’s just as great as the black version, and the neon pink color speaks to my soul. It’s hands down one of the best most asked-about items when I wear it out, too.

What is the difference between Dudley Stephens Vello and Terry?

It’s worth noting that Dudley Stephens fleeces come in two main materials: Vello and Terry. Vello is more of a traditional fleece fabric (think, big cozy fleece blanket) while Terry is more like a well-worn in sweatshirt. I think the best part, though, is that all their fabrics are made from recycled materials.

You can learn more about each style in the brand’s fabric guide. For my first purchase, I chose terry because I thought it would be warm, but not make me super sweaty. For my second purchase (pink), I chose Vello. The Vello is definitely warmer, but it’s not overly hot, if that makes sense.

Sizing + Fit

I was told that the brand runs pretty true to size, and I would agree. I am usually a 4-6, which happens to fall in the middle of the small or medium sizing, so I ordered a medium. FWIW, I love the fit and wouldn’t want it any tighter. The iconic turtlenecks also come in three main fit styles: Cobble Hill (long, almost like a tunic), Greenpoint (the style I chose – a medium length) and Park Slope (the shortest style that falls right at your hip). I chose Greenpoint, because I have a really long torso.

In any case, if you’ve been on the fence about ordering one of these turtlenecks, I hope my review is helpful. If you want to save some money, you can get $25 OFF your first order of $120 or more. 

If you liked this post, you might also enjoy my full Madewell Jeans Review or Are Lululemon Leggings Worth It?