The neckline of a wedding dress is one of the most noticeable features. The designer may choose to use a particular neckline for a dress to reflect the overall style. Occasionally, a dramatic neckline is used to make a bold statement and transcend a style. For example, otherwise simple, classic ball gowns may have an illusion neckline that might draw more attention to the bride’s face and create a balanced look as opposed to a wildly designed dress that gets all the attention. Consider these wedding dress necklines and what they may do to enhance the bride’s appearance or jeopardize the look

A V-neck is a neckline that dips significantly lower in the middle to resemble the letter V. The V-neck is one of the most popular wedding dress necklines. Some women do not like how low the V-neck plummets in their favorite dress. If the bride has her heart set on a dress but is not in love with the deep V-neck, she might want to have a modesty piece sewn into the dress. A modesty pieces is used to cover the lower portion of a V-neck neckline to make it less revealing.

The sweetheart neckline is also very popular. A sweetheart neckline is lower in the front like a V-neck, but the sides arc upwards to form a heart shape.

Square necklines fall straight or almost straight across the bust. As the name indicates, they would form a square shape with straps. A boatneck or bateau has a similar shape to the square neck, but the boatneck is high, often right below the neck and features a very wide opening to the shoulders.

Traditional strapless necklines also fall straight across the bust. While the strapless neckline is rather square in appearance, many strapless gowns have a variety of necklines including V-neck or sweetheart necklines.

Scoop necklines are rounded necklines. Halter necklines typically tie around the back of the neck. The halter neckline for a wedding dress may have the shape of a halter top without the actual tie at the back of the neck.

Asymmetrical necklines have sides that are vastly different. The neckline might appear like a traditional strapless neckline at one side but then rise to the one shoulder on the other side. This one shoulder look is a common asymmetrical pattern.

Illusion necklines have become more popular this year. The illusion neckline uses fabric, lace, or embellishments over a strapless neckline. The crystals, lace, or other material used to create the illusion neckline offers more coverage and interest than a plain strapless neckline.

Queen Anne necklines are high on the neck and drop to a lower neckline in the front like a V-neck. High necklines and cowl necklines are less common wedding dress necklines. The high neckline resembles a turtleneck. A cowl neckline has a loosely draping middle. Cowl necklines may have a straight modesty piece of lace or fabric under them if the loose fabric creates a low neckline.

Shopping for the perfect wedding dress can be overwhelming. For more helpful information about the differences between wedding dress styles and what can be most flattering for you, please visit the Best for Bride blog.