The different types of wedding dress necklines

Woman with hair in a high ponytail wearing a strapless wedding dress with feather detailing on the bodice

When choosing the right wedding dress for you, it can seem as if there are an enormous amount of tiny detail to sort through. From the cut to the fabric to the shade, every aspect of a gown plays a role in capturing your unique bridal style. One detail to consider first is the wedding dress neckline. The type of décolletage can affect your overall bridal look and how your features are framed on your special day. Not sure where to start? We’ve gathered a handful of the different types of wedding dress necklines to help you find the perfect design for your ceremony.

1. Sweetheart neckline for a romantic shape

A design that has been beloved among many brides of the past, as well as the present, is a sweetheart neckline wedding dress. The shape effortlessly exudes themes of romance and elegance with its curves that resemble a heart, covering your bust and adding a graceful dip in the middle. The popular design is versatile, and can range from more modest, subtle cuts to plunging and extravagant styles. When choosing a wedding dress with a sweetheart neckline, you aren’t limited when it comes to silhouettes.  

For a match made in heaven, choose a princess wedding gown, or an off-the-shoulder bridal dress featuring a sweetheart neck for added sensual appeal. This neckline is the perfect choice for any bride who desires an elegant look that will look stunning on your special day. 


Woman wearing a sweetheart neckline wedding dress with floral appliqués on the bodice

2. V-neck for added sensuality

If you're looking to add a touch of sophistication and sensuality to your wedding dress, a V-neckline is an excellent choice. This cut features a plunge that elongates the neck and draws attention to the bust area. It can range from a subtle dip to a more daring style. 

a. Plunge for dramatic flair

For brides with a larger bust, a deeper V-neckline wedding gown can help create a flattering and balanced look. Consider enhancing the distinct look with a backless wedding dress characterized by a deep V in the back as well. 

b. Illusion for a modest twist

Love the V-neck look but prefer more coverage? Strike the perfect balance with an illusion wedding down, consisting of a sheer fabric that elegantly drapes over the design’s plunge. 

3. Bateau for modern curve 

Often referred to as a boat neck style, a bateau neckline wedding dress has a slight and subtle curve that dips. This cut gently follows across your collarbones and flatteringly ends at the shoulders. Consider the design in an A-line wedding dress. This timeless boat neck bridal dress will enhance your bridal charm as the wide, horizontal neckline gracefully flows to a relaxed skirt, evoking an aura of modesty and poise. Its balanced proportions lend a flattering touch, offering versatility in complementing various body types. 

 4. High-neck for refined glamour

Walk down the aisle in one of our high-neckline wedding dresses to achieve more coverage and enhanced detailing along your décolletage, providing more coverage than alternate bridal styles. This is a great choice for brides who desire an extra touch of modesty that takes inspiration from the past. 


Blonde woman with hair in a low bun wearing a high-neck wedding dress with a lace bodice and satin skirt

5. Halter for retro inspiration

If you're looking to make a statement and show off your shoulders, a halter neckline is a bold choice. Featured on many 90s-inspired wedding dresses, the design consists of a strap or fabric that wraps around the neck. A halter-neck bridal gown is ideal for athletic brides with well-toned arms and shoulders, as it draws attention to these areas. It can also create the illusion of a longer neck. Working well with both fitted and flowing silhouettes, it can also create the illusion of an elongated neck for an elegant profile. 

6. Square for timeless elegance

Characterized by their straight horizontal style, square-neck wedding dresses create a structured décolletage that typically extends from shoulder to shoulder. This sharp, straight cut offers a clean, chic look that can elevate your overall bridal ensemble. Adaptable to a range of bridal styles, the design offers versatility, ensuring that every bride can find an elegant and timeless option that blends contemporary sophistication with classic allure. For a flattering choice that accentuates your figure, explore sheath wedding dresses for a design that gently flows down to the floor to capture a relaxed profile.  

7. Asymmetrical for contemporary style 

An elegant style seen on many bridal runways and modern weddings are gowns with an asymmetrical neckline. Its unique cut makes it one of the most contemporary designs in bridal fashion.  An asymmetrical neckline wedding dress works to draw attention to one side of the body with its sharp slant and looks breathtaking in wedding photos as it adds a daring, fashion-forward charm to your aesthetic. 


Woman with dark hair wearing an asymmetrical wedding dress with 3D appliqués on the bodice

Wedding dress necklines come in a variety of styles, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. From the timeless sweetheart to the modern and daring halter cut, the details of your gown’s décolletage can help you achieve the bridal look of your dreams. With our helpful guide in mind, you can begin browsing for inspiration, assured you’ll find the neckline that best reflects your personal style. 

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