A Guide to Bridal Gown Necklines

Now that you know the different types of bridal gown silhouettes, it's time to learn the different types of necklines. Below is a complete guide to the different styles of necklines offered to brides on their big day.

Straight Across: This type of strapless cut is just as it sounds - straight across the top of the dress.

Sweetheart: A sweetheart neckline is shaped like the top of a heart. It is most commonly a strapless style, but can also be accompanied by straps.

Modified Sweetheart: A modified sweetheart neckline is the same as a sweetheart neckline, but is less pronounced at the center.

Asymmetrical or One-Shoulder: An asymmetrical cut is often called a one-shouldered gown, as it features a single strap, cut asymmetrically across the dress.

Off-the-Shoulder: An off-the-shoulder neckline has straps that sit below the shoulders, showcasing the collarbone and shoulders, covering part of the upper arm.

Portrait: A portrait neckline is meant to frame the face. It features a wide, soft scoop from the top of one shoulder to the other.

Bateau: A bateau neckline cuts straight across, following the curve of the collarbone, almost to the tip of the shoulders.

Jewel: A jewel neck is similar to that of a t-shirt as its round and sits at the base of the throat.

Scoop: A scoop-neck is defined by its u-shaped neckline.

Square: A square neckline follows the shape of the bottom half of a square.

V-Neck: This neckline dips down in the front in the shape of a "V."

Illusion: An illusion neckline features sheer fabric or lace along the top of the bodice that extends to fit near the neck. This neckline is perfect for brides who like the look of a strapless or off-the-shoulder gown, but don't feel comfortable in a dress without true straps.

Queen-Anne: This old-fashioned style is defined by a turtlneck neckline, secured in a collar-like fashion around the back of the neck. It creates a beautiful shape around the bride's neck and décolletage.

Which type of neckline do you love most?

Dress Sources (from Left to Right):

Straight Across: 1 2 3 | Sweetheart: 1 2 3 | Modified Sweetheart: 1 2 3 | Asymmetrical: 1 2 3 | Off-the-Shoulder: 1 2 3 | Portrait: 1 2 3 | Bateau: 1 2 3 | Jewel: 1 2 3 | Scoop: 1 2 3 | Square: 1 2 3 | V-Neck: 1 2 3 | Illusion: 1 2 3 | Queen-Anne: 1 2 3

Photographer Sources (from Left to Right):

Straight Across: 1 2 3 | Sweetheart: 1 2 3 | Modified Sweetheart: 1 2 3 | Asymmetrical: 1 2 3 | Off-the-Shoulder: 1 2 3 | Portrait: 1 2 3 | Bateau: 1 2 3 | Jewel: 1 2 3 | Scoop: 1 2 3 | Square: 1 2 3 | V-Neck: 1 2 3 | Illusion: 1 2 3 | Queen-Anne: 1 2 3