Wedding Dress Necklines Explained

After the silhouette, the neckline is the detail that shapes your whole look - and it is the part of the dress that appears in almost every photograph. Here is a guide to the most popular bridal necklines.

Sweetheart

Shaped like the top of a heart, the sweetheart is romantic and timeless. It sits beautifully on a corset bodice and works with or without straps or sleeves.

Off-the-shoulder

Sleeves or a folded band sit just below the shoulders, framing the collarbones and neck. It is elegant and feminine, and pairs well with an updo that shows off the shoulders.

V-neck

A V-neck elongates the neck and body and can be soft and subtle or deep and dramatic. Many gowns use a sheer panel or appliqué to create the look of a V while keeping the structure secure.

High neck

A high neck in sheer tulle or lace feels modern and sophisticated. Clever placement of appliqué can create the look of a sweetheart or V-neck beneath the sheer layer.

Square

Clean and architectural, a square neckline has a vintage feel and pairs beautifully with puff or cap sleeves.

Halter and one-shoulder

A halter draws the eye up and shows off the shoulders and back; a one-shoulder design is modern and striking. Both suit warm-weather weddings.

Choosing the right neckline

• Think about your jewellery. A high neck needs little or none; a sweetheart or off-the-shoulder shows off a necklace.
• Think about your hair. Updos suit off-the-shoulder and halter styles; loose waves suit sweetheart and V-necks.
• Think about comfort. You will wear your dress all day. Choose a neckline you will not want to adjust.

Many details on our dresses can be adapted, including the neckline on some designs. Tell us what you have in mind during your consultation and we will advise what is possible.

Every Aeternum gown is made to your exact measurements by our European workshops, with free tracked delivery worldwide. Explore the collections or book a video call with Kate.