Franklin Dean
When it comes to wedding dresses, there are many different necklines to choose from, each offering a unique look and feel. A popular choice for strapless wedding dresses is the sweetheart neckline, which is in the shape of a heart and is ideal for giving the illusion of curves or showcasing what you already have. Another option is the straight neckline, which cuts across the chest for a modern and modest look. For those wanting to show a bit of skin, an off-the-shoulder neckline sits below the shoulders to showcase the collarbones and can be added to any strapless gown. Pear-shaped brides often opt for a strapless sweetheart to broaden their shoulders, while a bateau or boat neckline is perfect for those wanting to create the illusion of wider shoulders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Neckline style | Asymmetrical, straight, sweetheart, illusion, portrait, high neck, cowl, plunging, square, halter, scoop, off-the-shoulder, boatneck, bateau, Queen Anne |
| Straps | Strapless, off-shoulder, spaghetti straps, cap sleeves, sleeveless, short sleeves, long sleeves |
| Body type | Apple, pear, inverted triangle, column/rectangle, plus size |
| Skin shown | Collarbones, décolletage, bust, shoulders, back, waist, hips, thighs, arms, legs |
| Silhouette | Ball gown, A-line, sheath, empire, mermaid, trumpet, fit-and-flare, high-low |
| Accessories | Earrings, necklaces, hair accessories, belts |
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What You'll Learn
Sweetheart necklines
For brides who want a more modest look, a straight neckline is a modern variation of the sweetheart neckline, offering a similar amount of coverage but in a simpler way. This style is also known as a "boat" or "Sabrina" neckline, made popular by Audrey Hepburn and more recently, Meghan Markle.
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Illusion necklines
The illusion fabric can be customised to match the bride's skin tone, although it may not be an exact match. Illusion necklines can be added to a range of dress styles, including V-neck, plunge neck, sweetheart, and other strapless dresses with short or long sleeves. The mesh fabric can be embellished with appliqué or beadwork, and can be combined with a range of sleeve options, including short or long sleeves, or a single strap. Illusion necklines can also be used to create an asymmetrical look, with a single strap or sleeve, or a long drape over one shoulder.
For brides who want the look of a strapless dress but with added coverage, an illusion neckline can be a good option. It can also be a versatile choice, allowing the bride to change their look throughout the day by adding or removing sleeves or straps. However, some brides may not like the appearance of illusion panels in photos or video, or may find that the illusion fabric does not match their skin tone perfectly.
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Boatneck/bateau necklines
A bateau or boat neckline is a straight, slightly rounded neckline that stretches across the collarbone to each shoulder. It is a wider version of a round neck, and the curvature of the silhouette can vary from minimal to dramatic. This neckline is well-suited for brides who want to show off their collarbones and shoulders, and it is an especially good choice for those with long necks and décolletage.
Boat necklines are often paired with streamlined silhouettes in fabrics such as satin, tulle, or chiffon. They can also be found on ball gowns, A-line dresses, and tea-length styles. Bateau neck bridal gowns come in various silhouettes with a wide range of skirt styles, from simple and sleek gowns to fully embellished designs.
Boat necklines are a rarer choice for brides but gained popularity after Meghan Markle wore this style to her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. Markle's dress featured 3/4 sleeves, soft silk fabric, and a sophisticated bateau neckline.
Boat necklines can be sleeveless, short-sleeved, 3/4 sleeved, long-sleeved, or cap-sleeved. They can also be paired with a variety of skirt styles, such as a flounced skirt, a form-fitting design with slits, or a mermaid skirt.
When accessorizing a bateau neckline wedding dress, it is best to forego a necklace and instead opt for bold bracelets, statement earrings, or hairpieces.
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Off-the-shoulder necklines
For brides with a column body shape, which is characterised by similar shoulder and hip measurements and little to no waist definition, an off-the-shoulder neckline can help create definition and contouring. When paired with a cinched waist, this neckline style can give the illusion of curves.
Additionally, this neckline style can be a flattering choice for brides with a petite frame or a larger bust, as it provides a little more coverage than a sweetheart neckline while still being very pretty and romantic.
Overall, an off-the-shoulder neckline is a versatile and elegant option that can be customised to suit a variety of wedding dress styles and body types.
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Square necklines
While square necklines are not as well-known as sweetheart or strapless necklines, they offer a unique blend of vintage-inspired charm and contemporary sophistication. For brides seeking a combination of classic and modern styles, a square neckline can be an ideal choice. It provides a structured and refined look while still showcasing the décolletage.
Additionally, square necklines can be versatile and inclusive, with some designers offering sizes up to 34/36 to celebrate every bride's unique beauty. This neckline can be a stylish option for brides who appreciate a mix of timeless and current fashion trends.
When considering a square neckline, it is important to keep in mind that alterations may be needed to ensure the perfect fit. While gowns can often be altered down 2-3 sizes without compromising their integrity, it is always recommended to consult with knowledgeable stylists to discuss any fit concerns.
Overall, square necklines offer a sophisticated and elegant option for brides seeking a blend of vintage and modern styles. With their structured design and versatility, square necklines can be a unique and refined choice for a strapless wedding dress.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several types of necklines for strapless wedding dresses. These include the sweetheart neckline, which is shaped like the top of a heart, the straight or square neckline, which cuts across the chest, and the illusion neckline, which features a sheer fabric that gives the illusion of a strapless dress while providing more coverage and support.
A sweetheart neckline is a popular choice for strapless wedding dresses, especially for brides with a fuller bust. It is shaped like the top of a heart, dipping down in the front centre, and can be paired with off-the-shoulder straps.
An illusion neckline features a sheer fabric, usually tulle or lace, that extends from the top of the bodice to the neck, creating the illusion of a strapless dress while providing more coverage and support. This neckline can be paired with sleeves or straps and can also be embellished with appliqué or beadwork.
