The wedding dress is the statement element of your bridal look. Hence, everything about your bridal look should go well with this focal item. When the bridal accessories, makeup and hairstyle work with the wedding dress, your bridal look will come together beautifully.
One of the main factors to consider when choosing your bridal hairstyle is the neckline of your dress. To understand the different necklines that are commonly seen on wedding dresses, take a look at this article on the Knot website. For every wedding dress neckline style, certain hairstyles work better than others. So, here is your personal hairstyle neckline guide.
Choosing your hairstyle based on the neckline style has the following benefits.
It makes your wedding hairstyle decision easier: Finding the right hairstyle is a challenge, and there are several varieties for you to choose from. Base it on your neckline, and you can narrow down your choices to just a select few.
It helps you focus on the statement features of your wedding dress: Although you need a beautiful hairstyle, you do not want one that will distract from the statement features of your dress. This is why it is essential to find one that will enhance the beauty of your dress and not steal the spotlight.
Here are our top hairstyle suggestions based on popular wedding dress neckline styles. Browse through it, and we are sure you will be inspired.
Modern brides constantly seek innovative designs and ideas to set their look apart from the rest. Every bride wants to look different, so her bridal look is memorable and impressive. Modern bridal dress designers understand this interest in distinctive fashion choices in bridal wear. Hence, they also experiment with various styles and details to create one-of-a-kind bridal dresses that are sure to captivate.
One of the main elements dress designers use to create impact is the neckline. Take a look at this article on Wedding Ideas to understand the popular wedding dress neckline styles available. Contemporary bridal dresses offer unexpected and interesting twists to traditional necklines, making it the statement feature of bridal gowns. From illusion necklines, unique embellishments, mixed necklines in a single dress and keyhole details, there are plenty of options that will steal focus without any focus.
The right neckline will enhance your facial features, draw attention to your best assets, hide those you don’t like to highlight and also add to the beauty of your bridal gown. This feature will also add subtle drama to the bridal look. Here are some dresses from our collection that feature such dramatic necklines.
The plunging neckline is a bold choice in wedding fashion, and one that not every bride is brave enough to sport on her wedding day. In this Sophia Tolli dress Y11723 Lucille, the typical plunging V-neckline style gets a feminine update with beautiful lace appliques. Although a bold dress, lace appliques trim the sweetheart neckline and extend into the dipped neckline, all the way down. The effect is romantic and unusually attractive. While the neckline allows ample display of skin in the bust region, it is surprisingly demure.
The Sophia Tolli Y11720 Felicity has a necklace formed of lace appliques on a sheer illusion layer. This separates it from the sweetheart bodice. Although it is actually a single piece, the neckline details stand out separately from the rest of the dress. Matching embroidered lace appliques also extend along the arms into three-fourth length sleeves. This adds a special effect. With such embellishments, the bridal look is complete even without a necklace, pendants or other neck accessories. This dress design is very attractive, with beautiful layers of tulle, V-shaped back, illusion sleeves and dropped waist. Nevertheless, it is undeniably the neckline that stands out as a statement feature and steals focus.
Sparkling elements create a striking effect in the Sophia Tolli Y11714 Celestia with the halter neckline detail. Fine hand embroidery with sparkling crystal and bead accents embellish the entire neckline and extend over the fitted yoke over the inner plunging sweetheart bodice. The designs are classy, with fine details that form the statement element of this dress. Illusion details in the bodice and neckline of this dress have unique charm, and their sparkling effect beautifully complements the soft textures in the skirt. The result is a romantic wedding gown.
Enchanting illusion details within the V-neckline of this Sophia Tolli A-line wedding dress add unique charm to the overall dress. The entire dress has ruchings that add beautiful texture. However, the illusion details in the center of the bodice spread out between the V-shaped plunging neckline and create a mesmerizing effect. The illusion appliques have sparkling floral swirls with stunning details below the bust and at the waistline, for added effect. Similar illusion motifs also punctuate the back, adding the perfect finishing touches to this gorgeous dress.
Definitely a choice for the bold bride, the Mori Lee 6870 Malin has a distinct plunging V-shaped neckline that extends all the way down to the natural waistline. It has a barely visible sheer panel holding the shape in the center. The bodice is trimmed piping along the edges, while the entire length features peek-a-boo floral lace appliques that extend to the natural waistline. Sultry and sexy, this dress stands out because of its vivid neckline and details in the bodice, while the soft satin skirt is traditional fare with no extra embellishments.
The off-the-shoulder neckline is a bridal fashion trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere soon. This neckline is undeniably feminine and perfect for women who wish to show off their slender neck and beautiful collar bones. This is the defining feature of the pristine and posh Marquesa 8179 gown from the Mori Lee collection. The entire dress is finished in a stunning satin finish that is elegant and powerful. The beauty of the A-line skirt is significantly enhanced by the off-the-shoulder scoop neckline, and it has a charming bridal look. The dress also features a removable diamante beaded belt, that adds a touch of sparkle to the coolness and unblemished stark white dress.
All-over satin floral lace appliques create a whimsical effect in the entire length of this Sans Pareil bridal gown. However, the high bateau neckline with scalloped edges has a unique head to toe effect. Since the appliques spread out into the sleeves as well, the dress is a reflection of textural finesse. The illusion effect of the lace appliques against the inner inner strapless bodice is exquisite. This is a dress that is dramatic by itself, and doesn’t require any accessories to complete its beauty.
Observe how strategically placed embroidered lace appliques create a beautiful bodice with exquisite plunging V-neckline feature in this Sans Pareil 1061 A-line dress. The entire yoke has a sheer layer, that is barely visible, but supports the bust and holds the detailed embellishments in place. The lace along the bodice extends into thin straps and the almost translucent sheen of the appliques contrasts with the billowing layers of tulle in the skirt. The waistline definition with a satin sash further enhances the figure, and draws attention to a slender waist. This dress is equally interesting from the back, with lace appliques framing the yoke, and a fabric button train extending along the center.
Soft lace silhouettes embellish the entire length of this fit and flare Sans Pareil 1059 wedding dress. Nevertheless, the illusion effect that is created in the bateau neckline over sweetheart bodice has unique visual appeal. The neck region highlights details of the contemporary lace flowers. The high bateau neckline and cap sleeves draw attention to this area. With a thicker texture for the lace, the effect is modest and reveals no skin. Nevertheless it is very feminine and romantic. A well-toned structure is displayed to perfection with this silhouette, and the rhinestone embellished belt adds to the overall effect.
Here is another dress with a beautiful off-the-shoulder neckline, this time from the Sans Pareil collection. Elaborate floral lace details embellish the entire bodice all the way up to the waistline, where a hint of skin is revealed. The bodice is supported by a sheer yoke that extends into a barely visible scoop neckline. However, the dress looks like it sports just an off-the-shoulder neckline formed of lace, and scattered floral motifs spread over the length of the arms. The three-dimensional lace is striking and beautiful.
Gentle ruffles along the scoop neckline of this Sans Pareil modified A-line gown add extraordinary charm to it. It forms the perfect combination with sparkling crystal embellished details along the cap sleeves of the gown. The shimmering details in the sleeves matches the intricate crystal details adorning the chevron waistband beautifully. The gentle touch of texture along the neckline is the only discerning feature of this otherwise simple gown. However, this feature alone elevates the impact of the gown, making it a work of art.
Illusion lace appliques form a divine single shoulder strap detail in this sexy wedding dress from the Sans Pareil collection. The entire dress, including the yoke has a single sheer layer. Additionally, the strategic placement of the hand-embroidered lace appliques creates a unique neckline style. A thin layer of sheer also forms a high scoop neckline. The lace appliques along one shoulder extend into a thin strand in the back. This completes the effect with perfection. Although the bodice details are ultra-feminine, the dress is a bold choice with a mostly-sheer skirt and see-through effect.
An exotic floral lace band extends across the neckline of this Sans Pareil dress with A-line skirt and see-through bodice. With a lace necklace, this layer of lace stays in place by the sheer panel that covers the yoke. The same design continues in the sweetheart bodice, with a cohesive effect. With the width of the lace neckline extending beyond that of the bodice, the dress is elegant and graceful. The peek-a-boo effect in the waistline adds extra drama. Equally beautiful is the dainty corset detail in the back, with the same lace motifs on either side of it.
Regally bewitching, this Sans Pareil dress is gorgeous with its off-the-shoulder neckline. It also has slim three-fourth illusion sleeves and ruffled fit and flare skirt. It combines many fashion elements at once, and is both elegant and captivating. The sheer lace motifs along the neckline and sleeves have dainty scalloped edges, while the detailed motifs add beautiful texture to the dress. The strapless satin bodice opens out into a ruffled skirt. It is simply amazing with gently gathered pleats that flow into a majestic court train at the rear.
From the Jasmine collection is this stunning sheath wedding dress with a softly scalloped lace embellished V-neckline that continues into cap sleeves over an inner sweetheart bodice. The entire dress has the same lace all over. However, the neckline has impressive allure since it is completed in illusion finish. With its overlapping lace motifs that create a three dimensional effect, the fine and intricate work on it is bewitching. The sheer layer that supports the neckline also has a slender strand along the center. It adds a hint of sparkle to the neckline.
The fine draped finish of this dress elevates a regular sweetheart neckline to glory in this beautiful Jasmine wedding gown. Scintillating supporting straps further accentuate the effect of the bodice, while adding just enough sparkle to create a bridal effect. The draped effect that begins in the sweetheart neckline of the dress. This continues down into a dropped waist that gathers at one side. A sparkling crystal embellished design defines the culminating point of the draped layers in the skirt of this dress. With a silky satin finish and charming details, this is a dress that looks luxurious and elegant.
Now tell us, which of these wedding dress necklines appeals most to you? Or is there are different style that we missed? Please let us know in the comments below.
Of the different design features of a wedding dress, the neckline is one that can make or break your look. In fact, I would even say that it is the next most important factor after the wedding dress silhouette. Make your wedding dress neckline choice according to how good your neckline area looks. Also look at how well it suits your facial features.
Fortunately, there are options to change modern dress necklines to match your expectations. A talented seamstress will have the tools and ideas to make this work for you. So, don’t dismiss a wedding dress if the neckline alone doesn’t appeal to you. Check with your bridal consultant to see what customization options are possible to make it right for your vision.
To take a closer look at any of the dresses featured here, and also to find more inspiration for your unique bridal look, visit the Best for Bride website. Check out our online bridal collection gallery. This will allow you to shortlist your favorites from there, before you head out for wedding shopping.
We have often talked about the importance of choosing a wedding dress that flatters your body shape. While you should make this a priority for an amazing bridal look, there are more dress aspects that you should pay attention to.
After the silhouette, the next most important factor that can make or break your wedding day look is the neckline. Since the neckline sits so close to the face, you should get it right. The right neckline will enhance your facial features and balance out the proportions of your neck and shoulders.
The dress neckline is a major style factor that determines the overall impact of a dress. Thus, you can easily tie your look to the wedding theme by choosing the right wedding dress neckline that complements it.
Join me as I take a look at the all-time favorites in bridal gown necklines for different body types, in the dresses from our collection at Best for Bride. As we explore this dress feature in detail in various dress styles, don’t forget to make a note of your favorites for when you go wedding dress shopping!
Trending and glamorous off-the-shoulder neckline
Immortalized in classic fairy tales like Beauty and the Beast, this timeless favorite has been an ongoing hit in the wedding world. It has a playful vibe, even while it is feminine and classic. This neckline bares the shoulders, as it extends across the bust and fits along the arms. The best thing about the off-the-shoulder neckline is that it looks good with sleeves of any length. Additionally, it looks amazing on most types of fabric including lace. Take a look at this article on the Brides website for more insight into this wedding dress feature.
The off-the-shoulder neckline suits most body types, except the inverted triangle. The pear-shaped body has a heavy and broad upper torso, that is best camouflaged for a balanced look. Unfortunately, the off-the-shoulder neckline draws attention to this very area. Hence it is best avoided by brides with this body type. Similarly it doesn’t flatter women with thick and short necks, as it draws attention to this part of their body.
The dress seen here is from the Sans Pareil collection. The pairing of its off-the-shoulder neckline with cap sleeves and a thick ball gown skirt creates a silhouette that has signature fairytale charm.
Glamorous and stylish single shoulder strap
The one-shoulder neckline is an asymmetrical dress element that instantly enhances the glamour quotient of the dress. It features just one shoulder strap, while the other side has a strapless neckline detail. It reminds us of Grecian goddesses and it is a statement element in a bridal look. Dresses with single-shoulder draping or straps are widely favored for destination weddings, as the impact of this element is just right for a beach wedding.
One-shoulder wedding gowns can have a draped single-shoulder detail, or it may present as a simple shoulder strap that extends the strapless style. The asymmetrical nature of this style element doesn’t suit the inverted body type as it draws focus to the chest and decolletage. Since it highlights the neck, it is also best avoided by brides with thick necks and no distinct collar bones.
The dress in the image above is from the Sophia Tolli collection. Paired with a mermaid silhouette, this dress brings together many elements that look great in a beach ambiance. It is also glamorous, with its lush scattering of embellishments. This renders it ideal for an opulent theme as well.
Classic scoop for all body types
Simple but universally flattering, the scoop or round neckline suits almost every body type. The depth of this neckline can range from high to low, and its effect varies accordingly. The scoop is a naturally rounded shape, and according to the dimensions, it takes can enhance the body features of the bride. While a low-cut scoop draws attention to shapely collar bones and the neck, a high scoop conceals this area. When cut low, the scoop will reveal a hint of cleavage and accentuate the sex appeal of the dress.
Featured in this picture is a Sans Pareil wedding gown with wide scoop neckline, that frames a sweetheart bodice. The rounded nature of the neckline creates a balanced look and draws attention to the collar bones, neck and chin. This type of neckline when combined with sleeves is naturally slimming. It diverts attention upwards from the waist and hips, hence making it a good choice for apple and pear-shaped brides. Scoop necklines with half-length sleeves can make a thin bride look very slim, and are best avoided by rectangle-shaped body types.
Never-fail V-neckline
The V-neckline may have risen and fallen in terms of depth over the years. However it is still going strong in the wedding fashion scene. There is a subtle sexy element attached to this neckline, whether it is kept high or low. This is probably why it is a favorite choice for many brides.
In recent years, the V-neckline has plunged low to reveal more than what can is a modest dose of cleavage. Many bold brides who want to show off their bold and confident style in their wedding dress choice have embraced this trend. Whether paired with long sleeves, straps or barely-there sleeves, the V-neckline is a romantic and feminine style element with few contenders.
Here is a Mori lee wedding dress with cap sleeves that continue into a splendid V-neckline. The textured bodice with heavily embellished lace extends into a V-neckline that is both charming and sexy.
Bateau neckline that works for all
Shaped like a boat, the bateau neckline is a universal favorite that flatters all body types. This style extends from one shoulder to the other, barely revealing the collar bones. Although the neckline is modest, it is elegant and sophisticated. The only issue with this dress feature is that it draws attention to the neck. So, it is best avoided if you have a thick neck area and your collar bones aren’t visible. Also the raised nature of this neckline enhances the bust area. Hence, you may wish to avoid this neckline if you have a large bust and do not wish to draw attention to this part of your body. On the contrary, this neckline is well-suited for brides with small or average busts as it emphasizes these proportions.
This Sans Pareil dress features a bateau neckline over a sweetheart bodice with T-shirt sleeves. The neckline adds a demure, feminine touch to the classic wedding gown and draws attention to the facial features. This neckline is also a good option to consider if you want to avoid a necklace but draw focus to a pair of stunning earrings in your outfit.
All-time favorite—the sweetheart
The sweetheart neckline is feminine and romantic. It closely follows the contours of the bust and resembles the upper half of a heart shape. There is a dip in the center, and the depth of it determines the amount of cleavage that it reveals. Sweetheart necklines are a bridal favorite, and are popular in many bridal collections. This neckline detail may come with straps or hold up on its own. The final look is very different in either case. This style looks best on women with average bust sizes, as it is revealing on women with heavy tops. It doesn’t always sit well on women with small busts. Since this type of neckline reveals the neck and decolletage, it draws attention to the upper torso. However, the extent of embellishments will also determine the overall impact of this neckline.
Here is a Sans Pareil wedding dress which features a classic sweetheart neckline. You can see how the embellishments on it add to the texture and beautifully complement the fitted waistband. The upper half of the dress is just as appealing as the elaborate peplum lace details and the heavily layered skirt that it continues into.
Retro-inspired halter neckline
Although the halter doesn’t work well for all body types, it is a style element with no parallel. This dress style exudes confidence and is youthful and exciting. The factor that it offers modest coverage in the front, only to reveal an open back makes it unusually charming. In the absence of sleeves and shoulder straps, the top is held up by straps that fasten at the back of the neck.
This dress feature works wonders for hourglass and straight body types. However it is best avoided by pear-shaped women. This is because the neckline doesn’t look good on narrow shoulders. It further accentuates the effect of the hips and makes the rounded nature of this area very obvious. It is difficult to pair this neckline with a bra. Hence, you should consider this factor when choosing this dress style.
The beautiful Mori Lee dress in the image here has pretty illusion details on a halter neckline. The embellishments are very bridal and add a feminine touch to the dress style.
The elusive illusion neckline
There is an unbeatable charm for a sheer neckline embellished with scintillating embroidery and lace effects. Illusion necklines are very popular in the bridal world, for they have a soft charm and the embellishments add sparkle to the bridal look. Illusion necklines are often seen over a sweetheart or strapless bodice, and draw attention to the neck and decolletage area. Although they offer coverage, they are distinctly sexy and feminine. This type of neckline is universally flattering and is suitable for women of all shapes and sizes. It can also come with or without sleeves, and the effect is dramatically different in each case.
This neckline can take on any shape, including the bateau and scoop. The best thing about this style is that the simple presence of a layer or sheer renders a strapless dress suitable for a traditional wedding setting. Hence, church wedding brides often prefer this neckline over a strapless gown. Take a look at this article on the Bridal Extravaganza Show to understand why this style is huge in wedding fashion.
Notice how the ethereal illusion neckline layer adds sophistication and charm to this beautiful Sans Pareil dress seen here! What could look like another sweetheart ball gown receives a dose of modesty as well as sparkle with the simple addition of an illusion layer that extends into soft cap sleeves.
While the previous dress had simple illusion details, here is one that stands out. This dress from the Mori Lee collection features an illusion layer over a sweetheart bodice. The sheer fabric is richly embellished with a fine scattering of jewels. You can also see how the strategic placement of the details in the neckline eliminates the need for a necklace.
While there are more necklines like the portrait, Queen Anne, strapless and square styles, the ones we discussed here have been quite popular on the wedding fashion scene over the last couple of years. As the modern bride’s interests change over time, so does her choices in various dress features. Nonetheless, some trends stand the test of time, and the necklines we discussed fit the bill.
It is your turn now, so tell us which of these necklines is your favorite in the comments section below.
To learn more about the dresses featured in this post and check out more available options, visit our bridal dress gallery on the Best for Bride website. With a variety of designer collections that cater to the preferences of every type of bride, this is the perfect destination for you to shortlist your bridal dress choices. So, whether you prefer a sweetheart gown, an off-the-shoulder beauty or a destination wedding dress with asymmetrical neckline details, find your dream dress here in the Best for Bride wedding collection.
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