This article is part of our Ultimate Wedding Dress Shopping Guide.
There are many features to consider when choosing your wedding dress, and one of the most important is choosing a wedding dress neckline! Just like choosing a wedding dress silhouette, you’ll want to choose a flattering, comfortable neckline that fits your wedding day vision and flatters your curves. The neckline adds so much to a wedding dress and can completely change the vibe from classic to sexy to modern to traditional.
While it may feel challenging to nail down a neckline with so many options available, a little knowledge can go a long way in helping you decide. Keep reading to learn more about wedding dress necklines and to see some stunning examples to inspire your wedding day look.
What are the Most Popular Wedding Dress Necklines?
One of the most popular necklines is the classic sweetheart neckline, which will never go out of bridal style and is ultra-flattering. However, if you want a fresh look inspired by today’s top trends, plunging V-necklines, portrait necklines and high necklines are very in right now. When selecting a neckline, remember to keep in mind any undergarments you may need, the level of support you desire and the venue where you are getting married.
Wedding Dress Necklines
Plunging Neckline
The plunging neckline is perhaps the most dramatic and is for the bride who wants a sexy nod to red carpet style. This neckline dips low, elongating your figure and giving a slimming effect as it draws the eye vertically. There are different shapes of the plunging neckline as well.
You can opt for a gown with a V-neck plunge, a sweetheart plunge or an angled modern style. For more support and a better fit, we recommend a wedding dress with an illusion insert, like Martina Liana Style 1509, which is embellished with shimmering sequins for a glamorous look and is squared off at the bottom for a modern touch. To balance out this sexy neckline, you can opt for a gown with more coverage in the back or long sleeves for a mix of tradition and modernity.
Sweetheart Neckline
One of the most popular and timeless necklines gets its name from its resemblance to a heart, fitting for your wedding day! The sweetheart neckline features a soft and subtle dip in the middle of the bodice, drawing an imaginary line down the center of the body — creating a slimming effect. It then delicately rounds out for a soft, romantic look. This neckline will always be a classic, flirty and flattering option for brides of all shapes and sizes and can be combined with sleeves or straps for more support.
Essense of Australia Style D3521 features a classic sweetheart neckline with organic lace edging and elegant beaded spaghetti straps. Airy detachable lace and tulle blouson sleeves give the option of two looks in one and add to the romantic vibe of this dreamy dress!
V-Neckline
The V-neckline is another timeless bridal neckline that is flattering on brides of all shapes and sizes! This neckline is a versatile choice that works with multiple bridal styles, from traditional to trendy and can range from subtle to daring, depending on the desired coverage.
Essense of Australia Style D3576 pairs this classic neckline with a minimalist column silhouette, which is also trending this season. A V-back complements the wide V-neckline for a cohesive look. With flattering wide-set straps, subtle seaming and delicate fabric-covered buttons lining the skirt, this wedding gown is effortlessly elegant from every angle.
High Neckline
A high neckline typically sits around the collarbone or above and works well for the bride who wants a traditional or more modest look, but it can also be combined with modern elements, like lace to really shine. When combined with long sleeves, a high neckline could also be a beautiful feature on a winter wedding dress to keep cold-weather brides warm.
Martina Liana Style 1787 is as timeless as it is fashion-forward. The ever-trending high neckline is having a major moment in this all-over lace design, formed by the illusion of floating floral appliqués, which are expertly placed about the silhouette to shape the figure. This is a slightly sexier take on the high neckline due to the center plunge, which is balanced beautifully by the halter neckline. A keyhole back adds even more drama!
Portrait Neckline
A portrait neckline offers a regal look with its almost, but not quite, off-the-shoulder silhouette that dips down in the center to show off the décolletage.
Martina Liana Style 1400 features sweet illusion and lace cap-style sleeves that appear to float on the skin and a plunging V-neckline that highlights the upper body for an incredibly flattering and delicate fit. Combined with a voluminous ballerina skirt, it makes for the ultimate couture wedding dress for the bride who wants to look (and feel) like a royalty on their big day.
Illusion Neckline
Illusion necklines are super popular and versatile — and can provide added support for plunging necklines. Whether lace embellished, beaded or left unadorned, this neckline works with a variety of bridal styles!
Essense of Australia Style D3379 features illusion tulle in the bodice, back and sleeves, making the intricate lace appear to float along the body for a delicate look. This beautiful bridal gown is a stunning choice for the elegant bride with a sexy side.
Straight Neckline
A straight across neckline is an effortless cut that flows across the chest. This neckline flatters many body types but is especially nice on women with broader shoulders. Because of this modern and clean cut, your collarbones and décolletage will be highlighted.
Style D3780 from Essense of Australia is a romantic wedding dress that exudes timeless elegance. This gorgeous trumpet gown features beautiful floral appliques, a straight neckline and a shaped train. The skirt simple creates a truly magical look as you float down the aisle.
Choosing a Neckline for Your Wedding Dress
From sweetheart and portrait to one shoulder and boatneck, there are so many neckline options from which to choose. The key to selecting the ideal neckline for you is to keep in mind what you feel best in, what is most flattering, the level of support you need and your desired level of modesty. When shopping, it’s best to keep an open mind and try on a variety of neckline styles to help you narrow down your choices.
If you love a gown but don’t love the neckline, speak to a seamstress or your bridal stylist to see if any adjustments can be made in alterations or from the designer. Often a bolero, bodysuit, wrap or shawl can provide extra coverage if needed for the ceremony.
If you’re a plus-size bride looking for a neckline to offer support and a stunning fit, a V-neckline or a sweetheart neckline can be very flattering. A gown with an illusion insert or full illusion neckline can also help add support, as do straps. No matter which neckline you choose, a bodice with a good structure is key to feeling comfortable and secure in your gown. Look for details like boning, a structured cup or a dress that you can wear undergarments for additional support.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of wedding dress necklines, we hope you are one step closer to finding your dream dress! You can explore additional styles in our wedding dress gallery to see even more gorgeous gowns.
If you’re ready to begin shopping, you can find a True Society store and book an appointment at a True Society boutique. Our True Crew stylists can’t wait to assist you! Gown availability varies per store.
