When it comes to wedding dresses there are a lot of decisions to make. What style, which neckline, what fabric, and the list goes on. These decisions become even more complicated if you don’t understand the jargon being thrown at you by store consultants.
To help you through this process of decision making, here is a list of necklines, so you don’t misunderstand what’s being said and end up with something you don’t want.
Here is a helpful chart to begin with:
Now let’s move on to some more detailed descriptions:
– Sweetheart
Soft and feminine, the sweetheart neckline resembles the upper half of a heart. It follows the natural curves of the bust, and slightly dips in the centre.
– Bateau or Sabrina
Recognised by its similarity to the shape of a boat, the bateau neckline has a slightly softened straight cut that extends from one collarbone to the other. It has a wide opening at the neck.
– Halter Neck
The halter neck can be high or low cut, depending on what the bride prefers. Straps go around the neck and close at the back behind the neck, usually with buttons or fabric.
– Queen Anne
The Queen Anne neckline is high at the back and lower in the front. Looking at the dress directly from the front you’ll see a partially open neck with cleavage and collar bones covered and it may appear as though the dress has a collar at the back.
– V-neck
A versatile style, the v-neck is exactly as it’s name suggests. The neckline forms a v shape and culminates in a pointed dip in the centre of the chest.
– Jewel
This neckline is similar to that of a normal t-shirt. It is a very high-cut scoop neckline, that covers up the upper torso, shoulders and collar bones. Often, if a dress has a jewel neckline, it will be made sleeveless.
– Cowl
With draped fabric that hangs loosely around the neck, the cowl neckline instantly draws attention to the décolletage area.
– Square
As the its name suggests, the neckline is square. The neckline and straps meet at right angles, and it’s depth can vary as the bride pleases.
– Illusion
This one seems to be universally loved. Featuring lace or sheer fabric that covers the bodice and continues upwards to form a higher, second neckline, the illusion neckline is a classic. The sheer layer creates a stunning contrast with the other fabric and looks ethereal in it’s finish.
– Single shoulder
Also known as the asymmetrical neckline, this one drapes towards one shoulder and leaves the other exposed.
– Off-the-shoulder
Characterised by absence of sleeves around the shoulder, this style is quite popular. The neckline begins lower than the shoulder, and extends in a line, across the chest.
– Scoop
Very simply the scoop neckline is any neckline that forms the shape of a U or is round.
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