Dress Necklines
The neckline frames the face and sets how formal or relaxed a dress feels. This hub names the common necklines so you can tell at a glance how a dress will sit. Browse women's dresses (/collections/womens-dresses).
Rounded and classic
Scoop Neck
A wide, deep U-shaped neckline.
What defines it
A scoop neck curves in a broad, low U across the chest, showing the collarbone and a little decolletage.
Who it suits
It suits an easy, everyday look and balances a fuller bust.
Round Neck
A simple, close-fitting circular neckline.
What defines it
A round or crew neck sits close to the base of the throat in a neat circle.
Who it suits
It suits casual, minimal dresses and layering.
Boat Neck
A wide neckline running straight across near the collarbones.
What defines it
A boat or bateau neck runs horizontally from shoulder to shoulder, sitting high and wide.
Who it suits
It suits an elegant, understated look and broadens narrow shoulders.
Angular and open
V-Neck
A neckline that dips to a point at the chest.
What defines it
A V-neck angles down from the shoulders to a point, lengthening the neck and torso.
Who it suits
It suits most shapes and flatters a fuller bust by drawing the eye down. Browse women's dresses (/collections/womens-dresses).
Sweetheart Neck
A neckline shaped like the top of a heart.
What defines it
A sweetheart neckline curves in two soft humps over the bust, echoing the top of a heart.
Who it suits
It suits occasion and evening dresses, softening and framing the bust.
Cowl Neck
A soft, draped neckline that folds at the front.
What defines it
A cowl neck is cut with extra fabric on the bias so it falls in soft folds at the throat.
Who it suits
It suits slip and evening dresses wanting fluid, relaxed elegance.
Halter Neck
A neckline supported by a strap around the back of the neck.
What defines it
A halter fastens or loops behind the neck, leaving the shoulders and upper back bare.
Who it suits
It suits summer and occasion wear and shows off the shoulders.
Covered and high
High Neck
A neckline that sits high at the base of the throat.
What defines it
A high neck rises to the throat without a fold-over collar, giving a covered, modern finish.
Who it suits
It suits a sleek, minimal look and cooler weather.
Square Neck
A neckline cut in a straight-sided rectangle.
What defines it
A square neck runs straight across the chest with right-angle corners at the straps.
Who it suits
It suits a vintage-leaning, feminine look and frames the collarbone.
Keyhole Neck
A high neck with a cut-out opening below it.
What defines it
A keyhole neckline keeps a high edge at the throat but opens a small teardrop or slot below.
Who it suits
It suits occasion dresses wanting a covered neck with a hint of skin.
Frequently asked questions
Which neckline flatters a fuller bust?
A V-neck or scoop neck flatters a fuller bust by drawing the eye downward and opening the chest. High and boat necks can shorten the look, so lower, open necklines usually work better.
What neckline is best for broad shoulders?
A V-neck or sweetheart neckline narrows the appearance of broad shoulders by pulling the line inward. A wide boat neck does the opposite, so choose an angled or curved neckline instead.
What is a Bardot neckline?
A Bardot neckline sits off the shoulders, straight across the upper arms, so it is technically a neckline and a sleeve treatment in one. It bares the shoulders and frames the collarbone.