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 dresses neckline that complements it. 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!

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.

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.

Retro-inspired halter neckline

Although the halter doesn’t work well for all body types, it is a style element with no parallel. This mermaid wedding dresses 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 simply held up by straps that fasten at the back of the neck.

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 very feminine in effect. 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 of the cases.

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 these necklines we discussed fit the bill.

Different dress neckline for different body type