Wedding Gown Guide:

Necklines

We're back with our second installment in our Wedding Gown Guide. It's arguable that necklines play just as big a role as silhouettes in how flattering a gown can be on a body type. As it is the closest part of the dress to the face, it is imperative that the neckline complements the wearer just right, or it won't matter what the rest of the gown looks like. On that note, the following is a comprehensive breakdown of the various options to choose from. Keep in mind, when shopping for bridal gowns, no dress is unalterable. If you've found the silhouette that you love, but the neckline has you feeling dubious, ask the consultant what changes could be made to improve it.       

Strapless

A classic option for bridal gowns, strapless dresses can be straight or curved along the top of the bust and are flattering on most shapes. See also: Sweetheart.

Spaghetti Straps

Thin, spaghetti-like, straps that can be attached to a variety of necklines.

One Shoulder

This modern neckline is also called asymmetrical and lends a sophisticated yet edgy flair to a gown. This neckline can accentuate curves beautifully.

Off-the-Shoulder

This romantic and feminine style is defined by the small straps or sleeves that hit the arms just below the shoulders. It is ideal for brides who want to show off a long neck and beautiful collarbones without going completely strapless.

Halter

Typically featuring straps that tie around the neck, halters are wonderful on brides who want to showcase beautiful shoulders and help elongate the neck.

V-neck

This neckline dips into a V, which draws the eye down to the waist, making it a universally flattering style.

Sweetheart

One of the most popular necklines, the sweetheart is so named because the bodice looks like the top of a heart. It can look fabulous on any body type in the way that it both accentuates a smaller bust and compliments a fuller bust.

Scoop

This is a rounded neck that falls well below the collarbones and, like the V-neck, is well-suited for most body shapes.

Square

This neckline is named for the square shape it creates on the chest and is another nearly universally flattering shape.

Cowl

Reminiscent of ancient roman styles because of the loose-fitted draping, the cowl neck is a sensual style that compliments well-defined collarbones and a variety of bust sizes. Depending on the material used, it can accommodate both formal and informal weddings.

            

Queen Anne

Kate Middleton most recently popularized this regal neckline. It is characterized by a high collar in the back that sweeps into a low neckline in the front. This style is exceedingly elegant and suits ultra-formal weddings well.

Illusion

The illusion neckline is typified by the sheer fabric on the top of the bodice that from far away can cause the dress to appear strapless. It is a romantic look that strikes a delicate balance of coverage.

Bateau

Also known as a boat neck, this neckline hits at the collarbones and features a wide opening.

Jewel

The jewel neckline is rounded and sits close to the neck like a crew neck on t-shirts. It is a chic style that can be quite fashion-forward and allows for emphasis to be placed elsewhere, such as the back or arms rather than the more commonly displayed décolletage.

High neck

The high neck is exactly what it sounds like and somewhat resembles a turtleneck. 

Did we miss any? Do you have a go-to neckline that always flatters your body type? What about necklines that don't work? Leave a comment and let us know.