Your wedding day is a special occasion, and finding the perfect wedding dress is a momentous task. Among the many decisions you'll make, one of the most critical is choosing the right neckline for your gown. The neckline not only frames your face but also complements your overall look and your perfect curvy body. We want to make sure you know all of your options before picking your perfect gown!
1. Boat Neckline
The boat neckline is a chic and sophisticated choice. This neckline extends horizontally, nearly from shoulder to shoulder with a slight dip in front, exposing the collarbone and shoulders in a graceful and modest way.
Most bridal gowns that you see with a Boat Neckline are made with illusion, as seen in the photo to the right. Illusion is defined as sheer fabric that oftentimes has appliqué sewn onto it. Sewing on appliqué to illusion gives the impression that the appliqué pieces are floating on the wearer's skin. Illusion can come in a multitude of colors, most often matching the skin tone of the wearer to make it blend in as much as possible.
2. Decolletage Neckline
The decolletage neckline is the epitome of timeless elegance. This style features a revealing, deep, plunging neckline. It's perfect for brides who want to showcase their décolletage and create a romantic, understated look.
This neckline is popular on simpler gowns (the gowns with less beading and appliqué), although it works with all fabrics and styles. The reason it is most popular on simpler gowns is because it is a great way to create drama and sex appeal while keeping a very clean, natural look.
3. Halter Neckline
The halter neckline offers a unique and modern twist. It scoops in front and ties around the neck, exposing your shoulders and upper back. This style is ideal for brides looking for a more contemporary, stylish appearance.
The Halter Neckline is known for showing off the shoulders and elongating the overall appearance of the body. This style neckline works beautifully on girls with an inverted triangle body type, which means the hips appear wider than the bust/ shoulders. By exposing the shoulders in this neckline, it draws more attention to that area.
The bonus with the high neckline means there is no need to wear a necklace!
4. Scoop Neckline
The scoop neckline is a classic choice with a low, curved neckline cut deep in the back, front, or both. It is similar to a square neckline, yet more curved on the edges. The scoop neckline provides ample room for accessories and necklaces to add a personal touch to your attire.
The scoop neckline is a more modern neckline option and coming to popularity in recent years. For the brides looking for more modesty in the bust area, a scoop neckline is a gorgeous option!
5. Square Neckline
For a more structured and contemporary look, consider a square neckline. This style forms a half-square shape around the neck, adding a touch of uniqueness to your wedding dress. It's a fantastic choice for brides who want to accentuate their upper body (think inverted triangle body type again!)
Pair this square neckline gown with a simple pendant necklace and you're ready to walk down the aisle. Or, if you prefer to ditch the necklace, statement earrings will do the trick!
6. Strapless Neckline
Strapless necklines are beloved for their timeless appeal. They expose the shoulders and collarbone, creating a romantic and flattering look. This neckline could be pointed, sweetheart, or straight across!
One thing to note about a strapless gown, is that it does not provide as much support for bustier women. The bonus about a strapless gown, however, is that you have a multitude options on how you can customize it. It is easy to add a strap in alterations, or even pair a detachable off-the-shoulder sleeve!
7. Sweetheart Neckline
The sweetheart neckline is a beloved option for many brides. It resembles the shape of a heart and beautifully accentuates the curves of your bust. This style is both romantic and figure-flattering and there are so many variations of this look!
The sweetheart neckline is the most versatile of styles, as you can pair any sleeve, strap, or accessory with it! Sweetheart necklines typically never go out of style, making them the most timeless of necklines.
8. Cat Eye Neckline
A cat eye neckline is definitely one of the most unique wedding dress necklines, and we believe flatters all figures beautifully! This neckline is characterized by how it mimics the shape of a cat's eye; meaning the sides of a strapless gown arch up higher than the middle. It puts emphasis on the bust area, while still remaining modern and effortless.
This neckline pairs well with a simple necklace or by keeping the décolletage open!
9. Notched Neckline
Notched necklines contain a slit, or a slight v-shape, in the center of the neckline. This is usually seen in necklines that are rounded and sit closer to the neck.
A notched neckline is a great alternative to a v-neck, especially if you are looking for more coverage in the chest area. It is a more modern modification to a scoop neckline. It provides the best of both worlds when a bride wants a timeless look with a little less modesty than a classic scoop neckline.
Choosing the right neckline for your wedding dress is a personal decision that depends on your style and what makes you feel fabulous. Be sure to try on different necklines to see which one makes you feel most beautiful and confident.
Don't hesitate to consult with one of our professional bridal consultants here at Ivory & Main in Sayville, NY for guidance and to try on a variety of wedding dresses to find the perfect neckline for your special day. Make an appointment online to meet with our team and find the dress of your dreams!