Top Necklines

Top neckline styles

Top Necklines

Crew, scoop, V, cowl, halter and more

OD's Designer Clothing · Knowledge Hubs

The neckline sets the whole mood of a top and frames the face. This hub explains the named necklines so you can picture the shape and how it will sit before you buy. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).

Rounded and open

Crew Neck

A close, round neckline that sits at the base of the neck.

What it looks like

A crew neck is a simple round neckline sitting neatly at the collarbone, the classic tee and knit shape.

Who it suits

It suits everyday layering and a clean, casual look. Browse women's t-shirts and vests (/collections/womens-t-shirts-vests).

Scoop Neck

A deeper, wider U-shaped neckline.

What it looks like

A scoop neck curves lower and wider than a crew, in a soft U that opens up the neckline.

Who it suits

It suits a softer, more open look than a crew.

Boat Neck

A wide neckline running straight across near the shoulders.

What it looks like

A boat, or Bardot-adjacent, neck runs almost straight across from shoulder to shoulder, sitting high but wide.

Who it suits

It suits an elegant look that broadens the shoulder line.

Cowl Neck

A soft, draped fold of fabric at the neckline.

What it looks like

A cowl neck gathers extra fabric that drapes in soft folds at the front for a relaxed, elegant effect.

Who it suits

It suits a soft, dressy look on knits and blouses.

Angled and structured

V-Neck

A neckline that dips to a point at the front.

What it looks like

A V-neck angles down from the shoulders to a point, lengthening the neck and drawing the eye down.

Who it suits

It suits most shapes and flatters the neckline. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).

Sweetheart

A neckline curved like the top of a heart.

What it looks like

A sweetheart neck dips in two soft curves across the bust, echoing the top of a heart.

Who it suits

It suits occasion and going-out tops.

Square Neck

A neckline cut in a straight-edged square.

What it looks like

A square neck runs straight across then turns down at right angles, giving a clean, modern frame.

Who it suits

It suits a fresh, on-trend look.

Halter Neck

A neckline that ties or fastens behind the neck.

What it looks like

A halter neck rises to fasten behind the neck, leaving the shoulders and upper back bare.

Who it suits

It suits summer and evening wear. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).

High Neck

A neckline that rises up the neck with no collar.

What it looks like

A high or funnel neck stands up close around the neck without a fold-over collar, for a sleek, covered look.

Who it suits

It suits a minimalist, polished style.

Keyhole

A small cut-out opening below the neckline.

What it looks like

A keyhole neck adds a small teardrop or slit opening at the front or back, a subtle detail below a higher neckline.

Who it suits

It suits a hint of detail on otherwise covered tops.

Frequently asked questions

Which neckline is most flattering?

A V-neck flatters most people because it lengthens the neck and draws the eye down the body, balancing proportions. Scoop and sweetheart necks are also widely flattering by opening up the neckline softly.

What is a cowl neck?

A cowl neck is made with extra fabric at the front that drapes down in soft, rounded folds. It adds an elegant, relaxed detail, works especially well in fluid knits and jersey, and gives a dressier feel without a fussy neckline.

What is the difference between a boat and a Bardot neck?

A boat neck runs wide and almost straight across but still covers the shoulders, sitting high near the collarbone. A Bardot neck drops right off the shoulders to sit across the upper arms. Boat necks cover more, Bardot necks bare the shoulders.

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