The wrong neckline will detract from your best features instead of highlighting them. An overly revealing neckline can be inappropriate... even risqué.Different necklines are meant to flatter different body shapes, and are a matter of choice and personal style. Find the one that works best for you, and spot the ones to avoid.
Most common necklines:
- Boat neck (wide horizontal line across the clavicle)
- Bustier (strapless)
- Square
- Scoop
- V-neck
- Plunging (usually a V-neck extending to the bosom, but can reach as far as the navel)
- Sweetheart
- Cowl (or draped)
- Surplice (forms an "X" across the front)
- Asymmetric (a diagonal line, usually one shoulder)
Necklines also adorn the back for those who want to show off their beautiful skin. Rear necklines flatter most people, as does the asymmetrical cut.
Necklines according to chest size
Small chest
- A round neckline enhances modest curves.
- Low-cut rear necklines drawing attention to the back and suit you beautifully.
- V-necks and plunging necklines are perfect for you, but to pull it off, you need to wear it with confidence and be sure the look is appropriate to the occasion.
- Finally, the cowl neckline will create the illusion of a more ample chest.
Medium build
- A sweetheart neckline enhances the bust and looks great on you as long as it’s properly fitted and not too loose.
- A bustier is your friend, especially because you’re the only one who can really get away with it.
- A V-neck lends a touch of romance to your outfit.
- A round neckline is very feminine without being overly sexy.
- A surplice neckline, especially on a wrap dress, plays up your figure by shrinking to your waist and enhancing your bust.
Larger busts
- Square necklines look exceptionally good on you.
- You look sensational in a V-neck, but only if it’s subtle and not too revealing.
- A sweetheart neckline is very attractive as long as your chest is well supported and not overexposed.
- The surplice neckline adds definition to your figure.
- Go with a round neckline tobalance your curves anddraw attention away from the chest.
Neckline according to body shape
A-line or pear shaped bodies: Strapless, plunging and boat necks are your go-to styles.
V-line or inverted triangle shaped bodies: For broad shoulders, choose a square, V-neck or asymmetrical neckline.
X-line or hourglass figure: Proportionately balanced bodies can wear any neckline, depending of course, on the size of the bust. A round or a surplice neckline is particularly eye-catching.
H-line or rectangular body shape: The boat neck is your best option to enhance a slender figure. The surplice style will give you the look of a tapered waist.
O-line or apple shaped bodies: If you have a round figure, avoid the criss-cross of a surplice design and instead go for a round or square neckline.
