Like the wedding dress silhouette and waistline, the neckline is one of the defining elements of your dress. Each neckline is meant to complement the bride in different ways; what that means to you depends on your style, body type, and personality. Let’s dig into the most common wedding dress necklines!
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BOAT NECK
A boat or “bateau” neckline offers more coverage than some. The delicate curve usually stretches from shoulder to shoulder, falling just below the collarbone.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow shoulders
- Small to medium bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A collar-length string of pearls.
V NECK
A V neck starts wider at the shoulders and comes to a point down towards the bust. Some v necks are quite demure, while others plunge deep for maximum impact.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow to broad shoulders
- Small to large bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A dainty pendant on a delicate chain or a narrow statement necklace.
HALTER
Halter-neck gowns rely on a single strap that goes around the neck. This allows the bride to show off her shoulders without sacrificing stability.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Broad shoulders
- Medium to full bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A dazzling pair of dangling earrings.
PORTRAIT
Portrait, or “off-the-shoulder” necklines, are a highly feminine option, showcasing the beautiful natural curves and angles of the shoulders and collarbone.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow shoulders
- Small to medium bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A long pendant necklace or a bold statement necklace.
High Neck
High neck gowns are often very structured, providing a crisp and architectural look. Brides can prioritize modesty without surrendering style and elegance.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Broad shoulders
- Small to medium bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A classic pair of teardrop earrings or a simple pendant.
One Shoulder
One shoulder necklines make a bold statement, mixing strength and femininity. The diagonal line often stands in stark contrast to the more traditional lines of a wedding gown.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Medium to broad shoulders
- Medium to large bust
WEAR IT WITH…
An asymmetrical collar-length necklace.
Illusion
Illusion necklines usually include a mesh between the top of the bodice and the neck. Sometimes, pieces of lace of other appliques are attached to the mesh to give a fantastical, ethereal look.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow to broad shoulders
- Small to large bust
WEAR IT WITH…
An understated pair of earrings and a tennis bracelet.
Sweetheart
This classic heart-shaped neckline is a favorite among all types of brides, offering a flattering and feminine flair.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow to broad shoulders
- Medium to large bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A short, eye-catching necklace.
Queen Anne
The Queen Anne neckline offers a vintage charm with a low v neck or sweetheart in the front and a high collar in the back.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow shoulders
- Small to medium bust
WEAR IT WITH…
Some ornate dangly earrings.
Scoop
A scoop neckline is elegant and minimalistic. This low, rounded neckline brings timeless charm to your look.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow to broad shoulders
- Small to large bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A collar-length statement necklace
Straight
Straight, strapless necklines allow a bride to fully show off her shoulders and decolletage. This clean, straight edge helps elongate the neck.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow shoulders
- Small to medium bust
WEAR IT WITH…
A choker or a short necklace.
Square
Square necklines are dramatic and romantic, with almost a renaissance feel to them. The crisp angles beautifully contrast the bride’s soft curves.
LOOKS GREAT ON…
- Narrow to medium shoulders
- Small to large bust
WEAR IT WITH…
An angular statement necklace or a bib necklace.