Your Wedding Dress Neckline Guide To Help You Form Your Bridal Vision

Written by Curator Grace + Ivory

There’s a lot to learn when it comes to shopping for your wedding dress. After all, it’s a new experience that comes with its own set of challenges and excitements. From which wedding dress neckline feels and looks the best on you, to lace types and silhouettes…the bridal terminology can be overwhelming. Luckily, we are here with your wedding dress neckline guide to help you narrow in and be able to articulate your own unique bridal vision.

Gabby Galloway Photography

Why Is It Important to Understand the Different Wedding Dress Necklines? 

Understanding the difference between wedding dress necklines can help you bring your bridal vision to life. You’ll be able to effectively communication what you want with the bridal stylist or designer. You’ll also be able to better recognize, when standing in a dress, what you may like or not like to help the bridal stylist pull other designs that may get you closer to the final dress. 

Victoria Saint Martin Photography – Grace + Ivory’s Amara Dress & Tulle Cape 

The better you understand the different necklines, and which feel best for your body type and vision, if you do choose to customize your wedding dress (like many brides do with Grace + Ivory) you’ll know if modifying the neckline would ensure you love your wedding gown even more! 

The Sweetheart Neckline

The ever classic neckline that is a tried-and-true of bridal gowns, we love a nice sweetheart neckline. Typically, the sweetheart is one you may already be familiar with because it is known to be universally flattering. A sweetheart is often seen on strapless gowns but can also feature delicate straps or off-the-shoulder details. 

The most romantic of all the necklines, the sweetheart resembles the top half of a heart and dips slightly in the center. Featured on Grace + Ivory’s Catalina dress, we especially love a structured Mikado-Silk sweetheart that holds up on the dance floor. 

The V-Neckline

From slight V’s to deep plunges, the V-neckline is a versatile wedding dress neckline that will elongate your torso and draw attention to your décolletage. Since the depth of the V-point can vary, a v-neckline is a great option for different levels of modesty and style preferences. 

EV Photography 

Grace + Ivory’s Tabitha dress features a narrow V-neckline that extends to the natural waist. Brides love this sexy but tasteful plunge that accents a modern & chic bridal style.

The Scoop Neckline

If V-necks and sweethearts aren’t your thing, the scoop neckline is definitely one to try during your bridal shopping appointments. Another very flattering cut with a gentle curve across the chest, the scoop neckline offers coverage and support. 

Alma Photography

Grace + Ivory’s Issa gown features a beautiful scoop neckline that allows the 3D floral details to pop off the dress like wildflowers. 

The Halter Neckline

Ever since Sofia Richie’s stunning halter-neck Chanel wedding dress, the halter neckline has reemerged as a bridal favorite. With straps that wrap around the neck, this flattering neckline leaves the shoulders and upper back exposed. It offers a modern alternative to traditional wedding dress neckline styles and creates an overall contemporary bridal look.

Daniel Kelleghan Photography

Featured on Grace + Ivory’s Ollie dress, the halter neckline stuns with a deep-v cut-out and an all-over crepe design. 

The Bateau Neckline

Also known as a boat neck, the Bateau neckline is a revitalized classic. It has a horizonal neckline that extends across the collarbones parallel to the shoulder line. These timeless necklines can give off an old Hollywood glamour vibe while offering the most coverage of the bridal necklines we’ve discussed. 

Juliana Jumper Photography 

Featured in Grace + Ivory’s Elise dress, the bateau neckline looks best with an up-do hair look and a statement earring.

The Illusion Neckline

Popular with wedding dress styles but not as common in streetwear, the illusion neckline features sheer fabric embellished with lace, beading, or embroidery, creating the illusion of skin while providing coverage and support. It adds a touch of romance and sophistication to your dress while offering some modesty. 

Sandra Armenteros Photography

Grace + Ivory’s Sienna dress features an illusion neckline that allows you to have the visual of a low open back without any of the worry of a low open back! 

The Off-The-Shoulder Neckline

Off-The-Shoulder necklines have been everywhere the past few wedding seasons, and we don’t anticipate them going anywhere anytime soon! This neckline features sleeves that rest just below the shoulders, exposing the collarbones. It lends to a romantic and feminine vibe, accentuating the neckline and shoulders while offering some arm coverage.

Danielle Heinson Photography

Brides have been obsessing over Grace + Ivory’s Vita dress for the pointed off-the-shoulder neckline that feels high-fashion and clean.