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High collar
A band collar that extends up the neck. The mandarin version of this style is taken from traditional Asian dress, and doesn’t quite meet at the center front. GOOD FOR: just about anyone desiring an elongated effect; very flattering with an updo. BAD FOR: those with a wider neck, where the fit may be too snug.
Bateau
This wide-necked shape follows the curve of the collarbone, almost to the tip of the shoulders. The Sabrina version – made popular by actress Audrey Hepburn – is sleeveless; the front and back panels just touch at the shoulders, sometimes with thin straps. GOOD FOR: the bony and the flat chested (boosts the bust). BAD FOR: brides on the busty side (ditto).
Jewel
Also known as the T-shirt neckline, the jewel neckline is round and sits at the base of the throat. GOOD FOR: the flat chested (makes you bustier) and the collar-bone conscious (hides deep hollows). BAD FOR: the larger breasted (makes you bustier).
Portrait
Characterized by a wide, soft scoop from shoulder to shoulder. GOOD FRO: great collarbones (shows them off). BAD FOR: undefined or bony collarbones.
Sweetheart
A low-cut neckline shaped like the top half of a heart, accentuating the décolletage. Often done with an overlay of sheer material that rises higher, elongating the torso and neck. GOOD FOR: serious cleavage (a tasteful display). BAD FOR: the décolletage-impaired.
Scoop
Also known as a ballerina neckline, this U-shaped style can be cut low, and quite often the scoop will continue on the back of the dress. GOOD FOR: everyone.
V-Neck
The neckline dips down in the front in a flattering V, elongating the neckline and de-emphasizing the bustline. GOOD FOR: B or C cups. BAD FOR: anything smaller or larger (the bodice will either seem too empty or too full).
Square
The name makes it obvious. The neckline is cut straight across the front. GOOD FOR: the bust-endowed (cuts low but is not revealing). BAD FOR: almost no one.
Tank
Similar to a men’s undershirt, with a U-shaped neckline and deep armholes under the shoulders and narrow straps. GOOD FOR: brides with buff arms. BAD FOR: those with arm issues.
Halter
The halter features straps that wrap around the neck, or a high neck with deep armholes. Sometimes backless. GOOD FOR: great shoulders. BAD FOR: broad or narrow shoulders; anyone who needs the support of a bra.
Off the shoulder
The neckline sits below the shoulders, with sleevelike straps that co cover part of the upper arm. Shows off your collarbone and shoulders. GOOD FOR; medium-or full-chested women (open-neck styling with the support of straps); pear shapes. BAD FOR: broad shoulders (accentuates the obvious) and thin hips.
Spaghetti strap
This neckline is nearly strapless, save for the presence of thin, delicate straps. GOOD FOR: small to medium breasts. BAD FOR: large breasts or broad shoulders.
Strapless
This bodice is usually cut straight across, but it can also peak on the sides or have a slight dip in the center. GOOD FOR: broad or thick shoulders. BAD FOR: smaller chests (unless you’re wearing a push-up bra).
Asymmetrical
This neckline appears different on either side of the center front; one example is a one-shoulder design. GOOD FOR: great collarbones, the bra-free. BAD FOR: the bra-dependent; those with broad shoulders.
* Source: the knot, Book of Wedding Gowns, by Carley Roney, 2001, Chronicle Books, San Fransisco.
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