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{{short description|Shape or style of a garment at the neck especially from the front view}}
{{Wiktionary}}
{{Refimprove|date=December 2020}}
The '''neckline''' is the top edge of a [[clothing|garment]] that surrounds the neck.
[[File:Neckline.jpg|thumb|Neckline]]
The '''neckline''' is the top edge of a [[clothing|garment]] that surrounds the neck, especially from the front view. Neckline also refers to the overall line between all the layers of clothing and the neck and shoulders of a person, ignoring the unseen [[undergarments]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neckline|title=Definition of neckline|access-date=2016-09-02|archive-date=2016-08-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806120440/http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neckline|url-status=live}}</ref>
The neckline is primarily a [[style line]], but itcanalso be a boundary for shaping, e.g., cowls, dartsorpleats, similar to the [[waistline (clothing)|waistline]].
For each garment worn above the waist, the neckline is primarily a [[style line]] and may be a boundary for further shaping of the upper edge of a garment with, for example, a [[Collar (clothing)|collar]], [[cowl neck|cowl]], [[dart (sewing)|dart]]s, or [[pleat]]s. In that respect it is similar to the [[waistline (clothing)|waistline]] and [[hemline]].
==Types of necklines==
==List of neckline types==
[[File:Necklines.svg|thumb|upright=2|Styles of neckline]]
Necklines can be grouped into categories according to their shape and where they cut across the body:
Necklines can be grouped into categories according to their shape and where they cut across the body:
; '''[[Boat neck]]''' (one edge, nearly linear)
: A high, wide, slightly curved neckline that passes past the collarbones and hangs on both shoulders; also called a '''bateau neckline''' or '''Sabrina neckline'''. A variation is the '''portrait neckline'''.
* '''[[polo neck]]s''' (circular)
; '''Deep or plunging neck'''
:these are high close-fitting collars that wrap around the neck itself, and are also called '''turtlenecks'''. They are most common for sweaters or jerseys.
:These are low necklines, in either V, U or square shapes, that reveal various amounts of [[Cleavage (breasts)|cleavage]], and some even extending to the natural waist line.
* '''jewelnecklines''' (circular)
; '''Funnel neck'''
:A neckline with fabric standing high and close to the neck, cut or knit in one piece with the torso rather than as an added collar
:pass around the base of the neck on all sides. Also called the '''T-shirt neckline'''.
; '''[[halterneck|Halter]] neckline''' (linear, side edges converge on neck)
:These feature a V-neck or scoop front neckline with straps which wrap around and connect at the nape of the neck.
* '''[[scoop neck]]lines''' (curved, concave up)
; '''Illusion neckline'''
:have a curved U shape, where the arms of the U pass over the shoulders. Scoop necklines can be demure or plunging, depending on the depth of the U.
:A compromise between a low and a high neckline, it combines a low (usually strapless) neckline with semi-transparent fabric ([[sheer fabric]] or [[lace]]) along the top part, thus creating a second, higher neckline.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.weddingshoppeinc.com/term/illusion-neckline|title=Illusion Neckline|website=www.weddingshoppeinc.com|access-date=2019-01-03|quote=The illusion neckline can be thought of as featuring two necklines: a strapless neckline, and a sheer panel of fabric (typically lace, tulle, organza, or other netted fabric), which attaches to the bodice (usually at the waistline), and extends upward, forming the second, higher neckline.|archive-date=2019-01-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190103162943/https://www.weddingshoppeinc.com/term/illusion-neckline|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-ideas/wedding-dress-necklines|title=All the Wedding Dress Necklines You Need to Know|website=WeddingWire|language=en-US|access-date=2019-01-03|date=2018-06-11|archive-date=2019-01-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190103210342/https://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-ideas/wedding-dress-necklines|url-status=live}}</ref> This neckline is often seen on traditional white [[wedding dress]]es.
* '''boatnecklines''' (one edge, nearly linear)
; '''Jewel neckline''' (circular)
:are necklineswithabroadopening,butwhichpassnearlyhorizontallyacrossthefigure near the collarbones. Also called '''bateaunecklines''' or '''Sabrinanecklines'''.
:These are round and sit at the base of the throat, and are also called the '''[[T-shirt]] neckline''' or '''[[crew neck]]'''.
; '''Keyhole neckline'''
:These are similar to halter necklines, but the converging diagonal lines meet in front of the neck, forming a "keyhole". More generally, these feature a central hole, usually just below the collar bones. These necklines are seen infrequently.
; '''Off-the-shoulder''' (one edge, nearly linear. Also known as Carmen neckline)
:are similar to boat necklines in that they generally cut across the figure nearly horizontally, but significantly lower, below the shoulders and collar bone. Such neckline usually pass ''over'' the arms but, in the '''strapless neckline''', may pass under the arms. These necklines accentuate the shoulders and neck of the wearer.
:These are similar to boat necklines but are significantly lower, below the shoulders and collar bone. Usually these pass ''over'' the arms but, in the '''strapless neckline''' style, may pass under the arms. These necklines reveal and accentuate the wearer's shoulders, collar bone and neck.
:These are high close-fitting collars that wrap around the neck itself, and are also called '''turtlenecks'''. They are most common for sweaters (also called jumpers) or jerseys.<ref>{{cite web |last=Chilvers |first=Simon |url=https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/fashion-blog/2011/aug/23/man-trend-polo-neck |title=Man-trend: Roll-necks | Fashion | guardian.co.uk |publisher=Guardian |date=2011-08-23 |access-date=2013-03-14 |archive-date=2020-02-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217212848/https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/fashion-blog/2011/aug/23/man-trend-polo-neck |url-status=live }}</ref>
* '''[[halterneck|halter]] necklines''' (linear, side edges converge on neck)
; '''Portrait neckline'''
:feature a high neck with deep, [[Raglan sleeve|raglan]]-type armholes or else two straps from the bodice that meet at the back of the neck. In both cases, they form diagonal lines that converge inwards to the neck from the sides. Although such necklines reveal a lot of shoulder, their convergence makes the shoulders seem smaller. Halter necklines can have a horizontal bottom edge, or their two side edges can meet in a V.
:A portrait neckline is a V-neck with the edges of the V placed out at the points of the shoulders rather than closer to the neck; it can be combined with a surplice neckline.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://weddingshoppeinc.com/term/neckline|title=Wedding Encyclopedia: Neckline|access-date=2018-07-27|archive-date=2018-07-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180728040421/https://www.weddingshoppeinc.com/term/neckline|url-status=live}}</ref>
* '''Vnecklines''' (2-4 linear edges, side edgesdiverge)
; '''[[Scoop neck]]''' (curved, concave up)
:These have a curved U-shape, with the arms of the U hanging on the shoulders. The depth of the U can vary, ranging from demure styles to plunging.
:are formed by two diagonal lines from the shoulder that meet on the chest. These necklines can be demure or plunging, depending on the depth of the V. The [[surplice]] version of this neckline (known as a '''portrait neckline''') is an alternative. The V may also be truncated by a small bottom edge, forming a [[trapezoid]].
; '''Square neck''' (linear side edges neither converge nor diverge)
:These are characterized by three linear edges, the bottom edge meeting the side edges at right angles. The bottom edge cuts across the figure horizontally and the side edges pass over the shoulders. A special case of this is the '''slot neckline''', in which the side edges are very close (roughly the width of the collar-bone points), forming a narrow slot.
*'''Deep neck'''
; '''Surplice neckline'''
:Deep necks are low necklines, maybe in either V shape or U shape.
:[[File:Surplice neckline.jpg|thumb|150px|A surplice neckline]]These are similar to how a bathrobe's neckline is formed by one side of the garment overlapping the other. For a dress, the lower layer is usually sewn to the top layer just under the bust.
* '''squarenecklines''' (linear side edges neitherconvergenordiverge)
:These have a curved bottom edge that is concave down and usually doubly scalloped to resemble the top half of a heart. The side edges often converge on the neck, similar to halter necklines. Sweetheart necklines accentuate the bosom.
:are characterized by three linear edges, the bottom edge meeting the side edges at right angles. The bottom edge cuts across the figure horizontally and the side edges pass over the shoulders. A special case of this is the '''slot neckline''', in which the side edges are very close (roughly the width of the collar-bone points), forming a narrow slot.
; '''V-neck''' (2–4 linear edges, side edges diverge)
: Originating from the Middle East, these are formed by two diagonal lines from the shoulders that meet on the chest creating a V shape. The depth of the V can vary, ranging from demure styles to plunging. The V may also be truncated by a small bottom edge, forming a [[trapezoid]].
:has a curved bottom edge that is concave down and usually doubly scalloped to resemble the top half of a heart. The side edges often converge on the neck, similar to halter necklines. Sweetheart necklines are good for accentuating the bosom.
* '''keyhole necklines'''
:are extremely similar to halter necklines, but the converging diagonal lines meet in front of the neck, forming a "keyhole". More generally, a neckline that features a central hole, usually just below the collar bones. These necklines are seen infrequently.
==Modifications of necklines==
==Modifications of necklines==
The shape of a necklines can be modified in many ways, e.g., by adding a [[collar (clothing)|collar]] or [[scarf]], overlaying it with a gauzy material or decorating the edges with scallops, [[picot]]s or ruffles. The neckline can be a sharp edge of fabric or a more gentle cowl, and can also be accentuated by pattern(s) in the fabric itself.
The shape of a necklines can be modified in many ways, e.g., by adding a [[collar (clothing)|collar]] or [[scarf]], overlaying it with a gauzy material or decorating the edges with scallops, [[picot]]s or ruffles. The neckline can be a sharp edge of fabric or a more gentle cowl, and can also be accentuated by pattern(s) in the fabric itself.
[[ruff (clothing)|Ruff]]s were popular in the [[Elizabethan]] era.
[[ruff (clothing)|Ruff]]s were popular in the [[Elizabethan]] era.
==Trends==
==Choice of a neckline==
=== Off-the-shoulders ===
The neckline can frame the shoulders, neck and face, and change their apparent width, height and angularity. It is generally advised that the neckline shape be chosen to balance the wearer's natural features. Thus, a face with round curves is well-framed by an angular (linear) neckline and collar, whereas an angular face is softened with curves. Similarly, a short neck and face will appear lengthened by necklines with strong vertical (or nearly vertical) lines, such as a plunging V neckline (or a long knotted scarf or necklace); conversely, high necklines such as the jewel or turtleneck types balance long faces. Broad shoulders can seem more narrow with style lines that converge inwards (e.g., the halter neckline), whereas pear-shaped figures can be balanced by diverging or horizontal lines, e.g., an off-the-shoulder or boat neckline.
[[File:Blue Off the Shoulder Crop Top, Leopard Skirt, & Short Red Hair.jpg|thumb|Off-the-shoulder top]]
The off-the-shoulder trend dates back to the [[Regency era|Regency]] and [[Victorian era|Victorian Era]]. They were the height of fashion in the early to mid-nineteenth century. [[Charles Frederick Worth]], the father of [[haute couture]], designed many elaborate dresses, many of which featured bodices with off-the-shoulder sleeves and were very popular with prominent figures like [[Eugénie de Montijo|Empress Eugenie]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://fashionmagazine.com/fashion/off-the-shoulder-trend/|title=A brief history of the off-the-shoulder trend|website=fashionmagazine.com|access-date=2017-05-22|archive-date=2017-05-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170512060308/http://fashionmagazine.com/fashion/off-the-shoulder-trend/|url-status=live}}</ref> Then in 1960s, French actress [[Brigitte Bardot]] put her own twist on this style, wearing off-the-shoulder tops with everything from midi skirts to pants, reviving the style. The style icon made off-the-shoulder sexy and trendy again and off-the-shoulder style also became known as the "Bardot" style.
== Gallery ==
The designer should also consider the amount of decolletage the wearer would like and whether the visibility of undergarments (such as bra straps) is relevant. These factors may influence the depth and width of the neckline, respectively.
The neckline is the top edge of a garment that surrounds the neck, especially from the front view. Neckline also refers to the overall line between all the layers of clothing and the neck and shoulders of a person, ignoring the unseen undergarments.[1]
For each garment worn above the waist, the neckline is primarily a style line and may be a boundary for further shaping of the upper edge of a garment with, for example, a collar, cowl, darts, or pleats. In that respect it is similar to the waistline and hemline.
A high, wide, slightly curved neckline that passes past the collarbones and hangs on both shoulders; also called a bateau neckline or Sabrina neckline. A variation is the portrait neckline.
Deep or plunging neck
These are low necklines, in either V, U or square shapes, that reveal various amounts of cleavage, and some even extending to the natural waist line.
Funnel neck
A neckline with fabric standing high and close to the neck, cut or knit in one piece with the torso rather than as an added collar
Halter neckline (linear, side edges converge on neck)
These feature a V-neck or scoop front neckline with straps which wrap around and connect at the nape of the neck.
Illusion neckline
A compromise between a low and a high neckline, it combines a low (usually strapless) neckline with semi-transparent fabric (sheer fabric or lace) along the top part, thus creating a second, higher neckline.[2][3] This neckline is often seen on traditional white wedding dresses.
Jewel neckline (circular)
These are round and sit at the base of the throat, and are also called the T-shirt neckline or crew neck.
Keyhole neckline
These are similar to halter necklines, but the converging diagonal lines meet in front of the neck, forming a "keyhole". More generally, these feature a central hole, usually just below the collar bones. These necklines are seen infrequently.
Off-the-shoulder (one edge, nearly linear. Also known as Carmen neckline)
These are similar to boat necklines but are significantly lower, below the shoulders and collar bone. Usually these pass over the arms but, in the strapless neckline style, may pass under the arms. These necklines reveal and accentuate the wearer's shoulders, collar bone and neck.
One-shoulder neckline (one edge, nearly linear)
These are asymmetrical linear necklines that cut across the torso diagonally, usually from one shoulder to under the other arm.
These are high close-fitting collars that wrap around the neck itself, and are also called turtlenecks. They are most common for sweaters (also called jumpers) or jerseys.[4]
Portrait neckline
A portrait neckline is a V-neck with the edges of the V placed out at the points of the shoulders rather than closer to the neck; it can be combined with a surplice neckline.[5]
These have a curved U-shape, with the arms of the U hanging on the shoulders. The depth of the U can vary, ranging from demure styles to plunging.
Square neck (linear side edges neither converge nor diverge)
These are characterized by three linear edges, the bottom edge meeting the side edges at right angles. The bottom edge cuts across the figure horizontally and the side edges pass over the shoulders. A special case of this is the slot neckline, in which the side edges are very close (roughly the width of the collar-bone points), forming a narrow slot.
Surplice neckline
A surplice necklineThese are similar to how a bathrobe's neckline is formed by one side of the garment overlapping the other. For a dress, the lower layer is usually sewn to the top layer just under the bust.
These have a curved bottom edge that is concave down and usually doubly scalloped to resemble the top half of a heart. The side edges often converge on the neck, similar to halter necklines. Sweetheart necklines accentuate the bosom.
V-neck (2–4 linear edges, side edges diverge)
Originating from the Middle East, these are formed by two diagonal lines from the shoulders that meet on the chest creating a V shape. The depth of the V can vary, ranging from demure styles to plunging. The V may also be truncated by a small bottom edge, forming a trapezoid.
The shape of a necklines can be modified in many ways, e.g., by adding a collar or scarf, overlaying it with a gauzy material or decorating the edges with scallops, picots or ruffles. The neckline can be a sharp edge of fabric or a more gentle cowl, and can also be accentuated by pattern(s) in the fabric itself.
The off-the-shoulder trend dates back to the Regency and Victorian Era. They were the height of fashion in the early to mid-nineteenth century. Charles Frederick Worth, the father of haute couture, designed many elaborate dresses, many of which featured bodices with off-the-shoulder sleeves and were very popular with prominent figures like Empress Eugenie.[6] Then in 1960s, French actress Brigitte Bardot put her own twist on this style, wearing off-the-shoulder tops with everything from midi skirts to pants, reviving the style. The style icon made off-the-shoulder sexy and trendy again and off-the-shoulder style also became known as the "Bardot" style.
^"Illusion Neckline". www.weddingshoppeinc.com. Archived from the original on 2019-01-03. Retrieved 2019-01-03. The illusion neckline can be thought of as featuring two necklines: a strapless neckline, and a sheer panel of fabric (typically lace, tulle, organza, or other netted fabric), which attaches to the bodice (usually at the waistline), and extends upward, forming the second, higher neckline.
Boat neckline
Jewel or crew neckline
U or scoop neckline
V neckline
Square neckline
Waterfall or cowl neckline
Spaghetti neckline
Strapless neckline
Sweetheart neckline
Halter neckline
