Learn more about the most popular wedding dress necklines and decide which one is your favorite.
Before you shop for your dream bridal gown, it's helpful to brush up on the most popular wedding dress necklines—strapless, sweetheart, illusion, and so on—to find the one that will best flatter your body type, complement your personal style, and ultimately make you feel incredible on the big day. Unless you're already an expert on bridal fashion terminology, keeping track of all the different dress necklines might be easier said than done.
That's where we come in. While we definitely recommend trying on a variety of necklines during your bridal appointment, this go-to guide will help you narrow down some of your initial wedding dress neckline faves (and maybe even learn about a few options you didn't know existed).
Plunging neckline
For those who aren't shy about showing a flash of skin, the plunging neckline is a super sexy option. This neckline is a slit that extends down the center of your chest past your ribs (and sometimes even all the way down to your navel) for a statement-making look. Most plunging necklines are actually a sheer illusion tulle panel that connects the two sides of the bodice.
Picture courtesy of Yenny Lee Bridal Couture
Bateau neckline
Also known as a boatneck, the bateau neckline stops at your collarbone and features a wider opening that skims the tops of your shoulders, allowing your décolletage to shine. This neckline is extremely classic and demure, and it's also a royal favorite—the Duchess of Sussex opted for an elegant bateau neckline paired with long sleeves for her walk down the aisle.
Sweetheart neckline
This is a strapless neckline that dips in the front, creating an outline that resembles the top of a heart shape. Sweetheart necklines are ideal for giving the illusion of curves on the bust—or flaunting what you already have. They look incredibly romantic, especially when paired with a ball gown silhouette, lace details, or tulle skirt.
Cowl neckline
Not only is this dress neckline trending in the bridal fashion world, but it's seeing a resurgence in everyday style, too. Cowl necklines feature fabric that is draped and folded at the front, which gives you the illusion of a fuller bust. They're most often paired with micro-straps and look incredibly luxurious on figure-hugging sheath gowns.
Halter neckline
A halter neckline has straps that tie, snap, or hook at the back of the neck, making it a great pick for brides who want to expose their shoulders, arms, or back.
Portrait neckline
The portrait neckline is a wide neckline that extends to the very edges of your shoulders. It's a beautiful neckline for framing your face and collarbone, especially if you want to show off a fabulous necklace or wear your hair up to flaunt a sparkly pair of earrings. Portrait necklines are also a great option for supporting a fuller bust without completely covering up what your mama gave you.