Hey everyone and welcome back to the deep dive.
It's great to be back.
Today we're tackling a topic
that might seem pretty straightforward.
But as we'll see, it's actually surprisingly
nuanced and complex.
Oh yeah?
We're gonna be talking all about wedding dress necklines.
That's right.
We'll be taking a deep dive into a blog post
from Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo.
It's called 10 Types of Wedding Dress Necklines.
Got it.
Whether you're getting ready for your own big day
or maybe you're helping a friend find their dream dress.
Right.
Or even if you're just curious
about bridal fashion like me.
Yeah.
This deep dive is gonna give you all the knowledge
you need to really understand the ins and outs
of necklines and how to find the perfect fit.
Absolutely.
So, you know, when we think about necklines
it's easy to just think about the aesthetics, right?
Yeah.
Oh, that one looks pretty, that one looks elegant.
Right.
But what's really fascinating is that necklines
can really transform a silhouette.
They can play a key role in how a dress
flatters your individual style.
I think you bring up a really good point.
Oh, thanks.
Yeah.
And so, you know, we're not just talking about trends here.
Oh, wow.
It's about finding that neckline
that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
For sure.
Whether you're the bride or, like I said,
helping a friend find their dream dress.
Yeah.
So why don't we jump right in?
Okay, sounds good.
Let's start with one of the most classic
and popular necklines, the sweetheart.
Okay.
Now the sweetheart neckline,
it gets its name from its iconic heart shape.
Exactly.
And it's known for being universally flattering,
wouldn't you say?
Yeah, definitely.
And it's particularly great for those
with narrow shoulders and a medium to full bust.
Now I can totally see why it's so popular.
Oh, yeah.
It's romantic, it's elegant,
and it really does seem to work well
on so many different body types.
Right.
But I've also noticed, you know,
just from browsing through wedding dresses,
there's quite a bit of variation
even within the sweetheart category, wouldn't you say?
Absolutely, there's a lot of variation with the sweetheart.
Like how so?
Well, the depth of that dip, you know,
that heart-shaped dip, that can really make a difference.
Oh, okay.
Some sweetheart necklines are very subtle, you know?
Kind of just a gentle curve.
Okay.
And then others, they plunge pretty dramatically,
you know, for a much bolder look.
So there's like a spectrum of sweetheart.
Totally.
Okay.
And then the sweetheart neckline,
kind of like the little black dress of the bridal world.
Yeah, right.
Like it's a classic, it's so versatile,
and it's always in style.
I love that analogy.
Okay, so speaking of bold looks,
let's move on to the plunge neckline.
Okay.
This one definitely makes a statement.
For sure, it's definitely a statement.
Now if you're going for that modern, sleek vibe,
the plunge neckline is a fantastic option.
Yeah, if you're feeling bold, that's a good one.
Now, can you describe it for our listeners
who might not be as familiar
with all the different types of necklines?
Sure, so the plunge neckline,
basically it's like a daring slit
that goes down the center of the chest.
Okay.
And sometimes it can even reach,
like all the way down to the natural waist.
Oh, wow.
So, and while it is daring,
it often incorporates like a sheer illusion tool panel.
Okay.
That connects those two sides of the bodice.
Right.
So you get the drama of the plunge,
but you still maintain the structure
and the support of the dress.
I've actually noticed that illusion tool being used
in a lot of different wedding dresses.
Yeah.
It's a really clever way to add detail and coverage.
Yeah, it's a good way to like add some interest.
Yeah.
Without being too heavy or overwhelming.
Totally, and it's see-through.
So it doesn't like cover up
all that beautiful detailing on the bodice.
Right, exactly.
Okay, so back to the plunge.
Would you say it's suitable for all body types?
I would say it can be a little bit more selective.
You know, while V-necks are considered
universally flattering.
Right.
The plunge can be a bit more, you know,
specific to certain body types.
Okay.
It's particularly flattering, I would say,
on those with narrow shoulders and a small to medium bust.
Okay.
It can also do wonders for someone with a shorter neck.
Really?
Yeah, because that elongated line
creates the illusion of length.
Okay.
And can actually make your neck look longer.
Wow, it's like magic how the right neckline
can really change a silhouette.
It really is.
All right, so now for something completely different.
Okay.
Let's talk about halter and high-neck styles.
Sure.
So both the halter and high-necks,
they draw attention to the shoulders and the back.
The halter with its kind of wrap around style
that often fastens at the back of the neck.
Yeah.
It's perfect for showcasing toned arms and shoulders.
Right, exactly, it's very, it's like strong look.
I feel like the halter is having a real moment right now.
Oh yeah.
Both in bridal fashion and just like everyday wear.
Definitely.
It's so chic and versatile.
Now, in terms of body types,
what would you say the halter works best on?
So the halter works especially well, I think,
for those with an hourglass figure
or a medium to full bust.
Got it, okay. Yeah.
And what about the high-neck?
How does that differ from the halter?
So they both highlight the shoulders.
Okay.
But the high-neck usually has more fabric coverage.
Okay.
And it's on top of the bodice.
Okay.
So it's a very sophisticated and elegant option.
It kind of evokes that timeless beauty.
Okay, speaking of timeless elegance,
let's move on to another classic neckline, the bateau.
Okay.
Also known as the boat neck.
Yes, boat neck, very classic.
Very classic, giving us those Audrey Hepburn vibes.
Totally, yeah.
This timeless choice,
it skims gracefully across the collarbone,
creating that wide opening
that extends out towards the shoulders.
Exactly.
But the bateau neckline,
it has a really fascinating mystery, actually.
It does.
It was popularized, I believe, in the 1950s
by icons like Audrey Hepburn.
And it's seen a resurgence in recent years, I think,
thanks to that timeless elegance.
Yeah, for sure.
It never really goes out of style.
Totally.
In terms of body type,
what would you say it flatters most?
So the bateau is particularly flattering, I think,
on those with a pear-shaped body type.
Okay.
Because it helps to balance wider hips.
Okay.
By creating a visual emphasis on the shoulders.
So it kind of eaves the things out.
Exactly.
That's really interesting
how you can strategically use the neckline
to highlight certain features.
It's all about proportion.
Yeah, it's almost like an optical illusion, in a way.
Yeah.
It makes you really think about all the different ways
a dress can be designed
to enhance someone's natural beauty.
Absolutely, yeah.
So, are you ready to tackle another neckline?
Sure, let's go for it.
Okay, this one's incredibly popular.
Okay.
And I think we can both agree,
it's, dare I say, universally flattering.
I think so, yeah.
It's the V-neck.
The V-neck, classic.
Classic for a reason, right?
Yeah, definitely a classic for a reason.
So, you know, we've talked about how certain necklines
flatter certain body types.
Would you say the V-neck is kind of a winner all around?
I think, yeah, the V-neck's a wonderful option
for many different body types.
Okay.
But it's particularly well-suited, I think,
for those with a short torso.
Okay.
A full bust, or an apple-shaped figure.
Okay, so it can kind of help to elongate the torso.
Exactly. Yeah.
Yeah, and it can create that slimming effect.
Okay.
And I think what's also great about the V-neck
is just how versatile it is.
Oh, okay, like how so?
You can have a V-neck with straps,
you can have it sleeveless,
you can have an open back.
Like, there's so many different ways.
So many options.
To style it.
So it's not just like one specific look.
Right, it's like a whole category.
Totally.
Okay, that's really helpful.
Now, I'm curious, you know,
from your experience working with brides,
do you ever find that people get like stuck on the rules
of necklines and body types?
All the time.
Yeah, they'll come in and be like,
oh, I can only wear this because I have this body type.
Right, right.
And I'm like, well, you know, those are just guidelines.
Right.
How do you kind of encourage people
to maybe step outside of those rules
a little bit and experiment?
I always emphasize, you know,
while those guidelines can be helpful,
the most important thing is how a neckline makes you feel.
Right.
So if you feel amazing in a certain style,
go for it.
Like, confidence is the most flattering accessory.
I love that.
Confidence is key.
It really is.
And it's true, sometimes you just have to try things on
and see what speaks to you.
Exactly.
Okay, so speaking of trying things on,
let's move on to the square neckline.
Okay, square neckline.
This one has become increasingly popular
in recent years, wouldn't you say?
Yeah, definitely.
Now, what are your thoughts on it?
I think it's very chic and modern.
Okay.
It offers a bit more coverage than, say, a scoop neckline.
Okay.
But it still elongates the neck.
Okay.
That's straight across line.
Yeah.
It draws attention to the collarbone.
Okay.
And it can balance curves beautifully.
So it's definitely a more structured and modern look
compared to, say, the sweetheart or scoop necklines.
Definitely a little more geometric.
Right, right.
Yeah.
And are there certain body types
that you think it flatters most?
So, like the bad toe,
I think the square neckline is a great choice
for pear shapes.
Okay.
And those with a full bust and narrow shoulders.
Okay, so similar to the bad toe.
Yeah, yeah.
It creates a really beautiful balance.
Okay.
And it highlights the décolletage.
Oh, that's so interesting how these subtle design details
can really make such a difference.
Yeah, it's all about the detail.
Yeah, it's like each neckline tells a different story.
Evokes a different feeling.
Absolutely.
Okay, speaking of stories and feelings,
let's move on to the scoop neckline.
A true bridal classic.
Yeah, very classic.
So tell me, what are your thoughts on the scoop neckline?
So the scoop neckline,
it's all about those soft feminine curves.
Okay.
It's very similar to the square.
Okay.
It's a little bit less dramatic.
Okay.
And the lines, it offers a very like rounded,
classic bridal look.
I feel like it has a very timeless
and romantic quality to it.
It's very romantic.
Yeah.
And what body types would you say it flatters most?
It's especially slattering, I think,
on those with larger busts.
Okay.
And petite frames.
Okay.
The gentle curve of the scoop neckline
can soften a larger bust.
Okay.
And create a balanced look for those with a smaller frame.
It's amazing how each neckline
can have such a specific effect on the overall silhouette.
It's true.
It's really cool.
It's very interesting, yeah.
Are you ready to explore a neckline
that adds a touch of mystery and allure?
Ooh, I love mystery and allure.
Yeah, me too.
I'm ready.
Okay, so let's talk about illusion necklines.
Okay.
Now, these beauties,
they incorporate sheer fabric,
typically along the top of the bodice,
and they create what we call the illusion
of a strapless dress.
Yes.
While still providing more coverage and support.
Right, because sometimes you want that look,
but you don't wanna be completely strapless.
Exactly.
So it's like having the best of both worlds.
I get it.
You get the elegance of the strapless look,
but with the added comfort and coverage
of a more structured neckline.
Exactly.
Okay, so tell me a little bit more
about how illusion necklines can be used.
So they're incredibly versatile.
Okay.
You can see them with long-sleeved gowns.
Right.
You can see them incorporated with other necklines,
like V-necks, plunges, sweethearts, even.
Oh, okay.
And you'll often see embellishments.
Oh, okay.
Like applique or beadwork.
Great.
On that mesh, which just adds to the overall elegance.
Yeah, I'm a big fan of illusion necklines.
Yeah, they're very romantic.
They're so romantic and ethereal.
And yeah, like you said,
those embellishments can really elevate the whole look.
It's a good way to add that special touch.
Totally.
Okay, so speaking of elevating the look,
let's talk about a neckline
that just exudes confidence and style.
Let's do it.
The one shoulder.
Oh, love a one shoulder.
Yes.
So the one shoulder neckline, it's striking,
it's asymmetrical, it drapes beautifully over one shoulder
to create that Grecian goddess vibe.
Exactly.
And it's just ideal for showcasing the shoulder
and décolletage.
For sure.
Now, I've always loved the one shoulder look.
It's just so elegant.
It's very elegant.
And unique.
But sometimes I talk to brides
and they love the look, like a V neck,
but they find it a little bit too revealing.
Oh yeah, for sure.
So what would you say to a bride
who wants a similar lengthening effect,
but with a little bit more coverage?
So for those wanting a similar effect to a V neck,
but maybe a little bit more coverage,
I would say a scoop or a square neck are a good option.
Because they still kind of elongate the silhouette,
but they offer a bit more modesty.
Got it.
Okay, and back to the one shoulder.
What body types do you think it works particularly well on?
It works particularly well, I think,
on those with broad shoulders, a full bust,
or an apple-shaped figure.
And there's so much room to play with accessories
with that neckline.
Oh, like what kind of accessories?
You could do like a long drape, or like a rosette.
Oh, wow.
Or a bow.
Oh, I love that.
Yeah, there's a lot you can do.
Adding that like dramatic drape, or a statement bow.
Totally.
Okay, so for our final neckline,
let's talk about the off-the-shoulder style.
Okay.
Now this one is so romantic.
Yes. And versatile.
Very versatile.
Yeah, what do you think?
Yeah, I think the off-the-shoulder neckline
is very flattering on most body types.
Okay.
It typically features a strapless base.
Okay.
So either sweetheart or straight across.
And it sits just below the shoulders.
And then the sleeves kind of drape gracefully
over the upper arms.
Right.
Exposing the collarbone.
Yeah.
For a soft, romantic look.
Now I've heard that you can actually add
off-the-shoulder straps to existing dresses.
You can.
Is that right?
Yeah.
So you could take, say, a strapless dress
and just add those straps.
Yeah, or even a dress with straps sit on the shoulders,
and you can add the off-the-shoulder straps as well.
And that's what they call the cold shoulder look.
Sometimes, yeah.
Okay.
Yeah, it's a good way to, you know.
Like a two-in-one kind of thing.
Yeah, add a little romance.
Yeah.
And versatility.
It's so clever how there are just so many options
to customize a dress.
Yeah.
And make it your own.
Totally.
Wow, we've covered a lot of ground.
We have, we've gone through all 10.
I feel like I've already learned so much
about wedding dress necklines.
Yeah, it's a lot of information.
It really is.
Yeah.
But this is just the beginning, right?
Oh yeah, just the tip of the iceberg.
There's so much more to explore.
For sure.
Are you ready to dive a little deeper?
Absolutely, I'm ready to dive in.
Let's do it.
Okay.
Okay, so I'm definitely ready to dive a little deeper.
Right.
You've given us a great overview
of all the different necklines.
Uh-huh.
But like you said, there's always more to learn.
Right.
So where do we go from here?
Well, now that we have like a good understanding
of all the different neckline styles,
it's time to think about like how to actually choose
the right one for you.
Right.
Wow.
Because it's not just about knowing the names
and the basic shapes, right?
No, not at all.
It's about understanding how those necklines interact
with your individual style, your body type,
the overall vibe of your wedding.
Absolutely, the whole picture.
Right.
So how do we narrow down our choices?
Okay, so let's talk about that.
Okay.
So, you know, now that you've heard
about all these necklines, what stands out to you so far?
Ooh, that's a tough one.
I mean, there are so many gorgeous options out there.
Right.
I think I'm personally drawn to the more romantic
classic styles.
Yeah.
Like the sweetheart, the off the shoulder.
But I also, you know, I love the drama
of a plunge or a one shoulder.
That's right.
So it's hard to pick just one.
It is hard to pick just one.
But it sounds like you have a good sense
of what you're drawn to.
I think so.
Yeah.
And you know what?
There are no hard and fast rules here.
Exactly.
It's all about finding what feels right for you.
Yeah.
And when you're trying on dresses,
really pay attention to how the neckline makes you feel.
Okay.
Yeah, do you feel confident?
Yeah.
Do you feel elegant,
romantic,
playful?
Right.
Like the right neckline will enhance your natural beauty.
Yeah.
And reflect your personality.
I love that advice.
Yeah.
It's not just about following the trends.
No.
It's about finding what truly resonates with you.
Right.
And I said earlier,
confidence is the most flattering accessory.
It really is.
So don't be afraid to experiment.
Exactly.
Right.
You might surprise yourself
with what you end up loving.
You might walk in thinking
you're a sweetheart neckline person.
And then you try on a bad toe and you're like,
oh my God, this is amazing.
Totally.
I remember when I was helping my friend
find her wedding dress.
Yeah.
She was convinced she wanted a sweetheart neckline.
Okay.
But then she tried on this one shoulder gown
and her face just lit up.
It was like she transformed.
I love that.
And I think that's what makes
the whole process so special, right?
Yeah.
It's about finding the dress and the neckline
that make you feel like the best version of yourself.
Absolutely.
That's what it's all about.
So any other tips for our listeners out there
as they embark on their wedding dress journey?
Remember that you don't have to do this alone.
I don't know.
Lean on your bridal stylist,
your friends, your family for support and guidance.
Right.
And have really valuable perspectives
and help you kind of navigate all the options out there.
That's such an important reminder.
Sometimes having that outside perspective
can really help you see things in a new light.
Absolutely.
And speaking of seeing things.
Okay.
Let's talk about how the neckline
can actually like create optical illusions, right?
It can enhance certain features.
Totally.
So for instance, we talked about how a V neck
can elongate a shorter torso
or how a bateau neckline can balance wider hips.
Exactly.
It's all about proportion.
It's almost like magic.
It really is.
The way that right neckline can transform a silhouette.
It's amazing what a little bit of fabric can do.
And don't forget about the power of accessories.
Oh yeah, for sure.
The right necklace, earrings, or even a hair piece
can really compliment your chosen neckline
and complete that overall look.
So do you have any like favorite neckline
and accessory pairings?
Ooh, that's a good question.
Yeah.
I mean, there's so many stunning combinations out there.
But one that always comes to mind
is like a delicate pendant necklace.
Okay.
Paired with a sweetheart neckline.
Okay.
I think that's very classic.
Timeless, elegant.
Yeah, I completely agree.
It's a pairing that never goes out of style.
Totally.
Now I'm curious to get your thoughts
on trends versus timeless styles.
Okay.
Do you think brides should prioritize
what's currently in fashion?
Or should they really focus on finding a neckline
that they're gonna love for years to come?
That's such a great question.
Yeah.
I think, you know, while it's fun to be aware of the trends,
I really believe timelessness
should always be the top priority.
Okay.
Because, you know, your wedding photos,
they're gonna be cherished for a lifetime.
Right.
So you wanna choose a style
that isn't gonna feel dated in a few years.
You don't wanna look back and be like,
what was I thinking?
Exactly, yeah.
Okay, I couldn't agree more.
Yeah.
Think about, like, all the iconic bridal looks
throughout history, right?
Grace Kelly's high neck lace gown.
Audrey Hepburn's elegant, baton neckline.
Those styles have stood the test of time.
For sure, because they're just inherently
classic and flattering.
They're just beautiful.
And you know, it's interesting.
It's how those classic necklines have been reinterpreted.
Uh-huh.
And modernized over the years.
Oh yeah, for sure.
So for example, the high neck
that Grace Kelly made famous.
Yeah.
It's evolved into so many variations.
Uh-huh.
From, like, sleek and minimalist.
Yeah.
To intricately embellished.
Exactly.
It's really cool to see how, you know,
fashion takes those classic elements.
Uh-huh.
And just, like, gives them a fresh new take.
Yeah, it's a testament to the enduring power
of a classic silhouette.
Like, fashion is constantly evolving.
Uh-huh.
And those core elements of style, they remain timeless.
So it's like taking inspiration from the past.
Yeah.
But adding your own personal twist.
Exactly.
To create a look that feels both classic and contemporary.
Yeah, that perfect balance.
And that's what makes choosing a wedding dress so exciting,
right?
Yeah, it is.
It's a chance to really celebrate your unique style.
Uh-huh.
Create a look that's truly your own.
Yeah, express yourself.
And there's no right or wrong answer here.
Exactly.
That's the best part.
It's all about finding what makes you feel.
Yeah.
Confident, radiant, and authentically you.
Exactly.
So as we kind of wrap up this part of our deep dive
into the world of wedding dress necklines.
OK.
Do you have any final thoughts for our listeners?
Yeah, I would encourage every listener
to really embrace this journey of finding
their perfect neckline.
Yeah.
Try on different styles.
Experiment with accessories.
And most importantly, trust your instincts.
OK.
When you find the neckline that makes you feel confident,
radiant, and just utterly yourself,
you'll know you found the one.
I love that.
Beautifully said.
You know, after this deep dive, I
think our listeners are really armed with all the knowledge
and inspiration.
They need to find the neckline of their dreams.
Absolutely.
But before we wrap up this episode,
I would love to hear your final thoughts on what makes
this topic so captivating.
Well, I think what I love about discussing necklines
is that it reminds us that fashion isn't just
about trends or rules.
It's about self-expression.
It's about celebrating individuality.
And what better occasion to do that than on your wedding day?
So true.
It's your day to shine, to really embrace who you are.
And the right wedding dress neckline
can be a beautiful part of that celebration.
Absolutely.
Now, speaking of celebration, do you
have a final thought-provoking question for our listeners?
I do.
OK.
So think about all the necklines we've discussed today.
OK.
Sweetheart, plunge, halter, betto, v-neck, square, scoop,
illusion, one shoulder off the shoulder.
Wow.
So many.
Now, imagine yourself trying on each one.
Which neckline do you feel most drawn to?
Yeah.
And why?
Right.
Is it the shape, the coverage, or maybe
the way it makes you feel?
That is such a great question, because it really
encourages our listeners to go beyond just the surface
and really connect with your own sense of style.
I know I'm already picturing myself
in a few of those necklines.
Me too.
And there's no right or wrong answer here.
No, not at all.
It's all about finding what makes
you feel confident and beautiful,
and most importantly, authentically, you.
For sure.
Well, on that note, I think it's time for us
to wrap up this deep dive into the world of wedding dress
necklines.
It's been fun.
But before we say goodbye, I want
to leave our listeners with a sense of excitement
and possibility.
For sure.
So embrace the journey, explore different styles,
and most importantly, have fun with it.
Yes, have fun.
And who knows?
You might just discover a neckline.
You never knew?
You never even knew you loved.
Exactly.
Happy dress hunting, everyone.
Happy hunting.