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.
