Besides dressing for your body type, or finding a pair of shades that fit your face shape, there are various types of necklines that they suit different kinds of body shapes. Necklines play a pivotal role in your overall appearance; they draw attention to your face and create balanced proportions — ergo, they make or break a look.
From the round neck to cowl neck, we bring you through 12 different kinds of necklines and how to choose the ones that will flatter you best.
#1: Round/Crew
The most common neckline in the market, and usually found on items such as T-shirts and casual tops, this classic design is great for those who are less busty with wider shoulders. Pieces with a round neck have the tendency to frame and highlight the face as well.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
1. Round/crew/jewel
Gucci oversize T-shirt with sequin Gucci logo, US$1,400
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While this might look like a simple sequinned monogram T-shirt, the surprise is at the back — the brand’s signature embellished tiger’s head is featured prominently. Tuck into distressed skinnies and match with sneakers for a model off duty look.
Uniqlo x JW Anderson asymmetric hem short sleeve dress, $49.90
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#2: One-shoulder/Asymmetric
As the name suggests, this neckline bares one of your shoulders, sometimes cutting below your shoulder or collarbone. This is best for those who want to showcase the bust area, or for people who have narrow shoulders — the cut gives one’s shoulders a broader look.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
. One-shoulder/Asymmetric
Stella McCartney one-shoulder ponte jumpsuit, US$1,766.55 from Net-a-Porter
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This gorgeous tailored piece with an asymmetrical neckline detail is oh-so-versatile. Whether you’re wearing it for work (with a jacket) or for a dinner date, pair it with a simple chain and stud or drop earrings to bring focus to your face.
Zara knit top with asymmetric neckline, $49.90
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Remember the classic scene in Mean Girls where Regina George was watching the school descend into chaos with her arms smugly crossed? She was wearing a skintight off-shoulder black top with denim jeans then. Take a leaf from her book, but go with one that has an asymmetric neckline for an updated take.
#3: V-Neck
Another obvious one, V-necklines are shaped like the letter V and go down towards the chest area, accentuating the cleavage. There are two versions: a subtle one that ends mid-breast, and a plunging alternative that extends below the boobs.
They are generally flattering for people with wider shoulders and torsos, because they help balance them out visually. They also help to lengthen shorter necks as they direct the eyes towards the centre of the body.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
V-Neck
Diane von Furstenberg satin-trimmed velvet jumpsuit, US$712.43 from Net-a-Porter
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Jumpsuits are a chic all-in-one outfit and the V-neckline of this DVF number provides contrast by baring some skin. We love the luxe material, making it perfect for formal occasions.
Bershka V-neck T-shirt, $29.90
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A simple V-neck white top is a wardrobe staple, as you can easily throw this on with a pair of cigarette pants for work.
Bershka outlets are located in ION Orchard, Bugis+ and VivoCity.
Read more on the next page.
#4: Off-Shoulder
This Bardot style draws the eye up and makes your collarbone and shoulders pop. It’s romantic, flirty and feminine, and better suited for those who are petite and athletic, and who have a small to medium bust.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
. Off-Shoulder
Alexander McQueen off-the-shoulder midi sheer knit dress, $4,855
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This corset-inspired off-shoulder creation from Alexander McQueen sports frills which pull focus to your shoulders. It comes in a feminine pink hue, yet it doesn’t lack the attitude. Finish with boots for a rugged edge.
Pull & Bear bardot neckline sweater, $55.90
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In a neutral and versatile slate grey, layer a delicate necklace over this slouchy bardot sweater and finish with a pair of high-waisted jeans and boots for a cozy movie night look.
#5: Boat/Bateau
Nautical inspired, the boat neckline can be thought of as a wider version of a round neck and extends just below the collarbone. Great for making narrow shoulders look broad, the bateau can also help balance a thicker waist or hip, and a smaller chest area.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
Boat/Bateau
Roland Mouret asymmetric crepe peplum top, US$444.18 from Net-a-Porter
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Featuring an elegant high bateau neckline, this navy blue peplum top creates an hourglass waistline and sports an asymmetric hemline for added visual interest. Complement the sculptural elements with a pair of tailored, fitted trousers and pointed heels.
H&M scallop-trimmed blouse, $29.95
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Spice up your work ensembles with this flaming-red number that comes with a boat neckline, scalloped trim sleeves and scalloped hem. Pair with either deep blue or black trousers.
#6: Halterneck
Halternecks are easily identified by the straps that sit at the base of the neck. Such tops expose the shoulders and parts of the decolletage, making them the perfect garment to highlight toned arms and shoulders.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
6. Halterneck
Temperley London hetty metallic fil coupé silk-blend chiffon halterneck gown, US$1,564.90 from Net-a-Porter
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Drawing inspiration from ’30s racing driver Kay Petre, this stars and arrows embellished halterneck piece from Temperley London — which features tire tracks too! — makes a great weekend piece for brunches to garden weddings. Pair with a wicker bag.
Topshop raya halter vest, $13.90
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Channel athleisure vibes by pairing this Topshop halterneck top with your favourite pair of track pants and sneakers.
Read more on the next page.
#7: Halter Strap
Unlike halternecks, which have straps that wrap around the neck and cover the chest, halter straps go behind the neck and exposes the cleavage while keeping the shoulders exposed.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
Halter Strap
Galvan eclipse cutout stretch-jersey halterneck mini dress, US$619.29 from Net-a-Porter
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With its deep plunge, low back and waist cut-outs, this Net-a-Porter exclusive is a super hot piece, if you know when we mean.
Zara crop top, $39.90
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This simple black halter strap number is pure simplicity. Throw in on with a pair of high-waisted jeans, or cover it up with a blazer if you’re taking it to work.
#8: Sweetheart
A favourite amongst brides, the sweetheart neckline is much like the shape of a heart, with a dip in the middle of your bust and rounding upwards towards the shoulders. This silhouette is great for showing off your collarbone and creates a longer, leaner effect by elongating the neck and chest area. It also adds balance to the overall silhouette.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
8. Sweetheart
Alice McCall one kiss cold-shoulder floral-print crepe de chine midi dress, US$549.27 from Net-a-Porter
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Get ready for summer parties with this floral midi number. Add highlighter and finish with a delicate necklace to accentuate your decolletage.
H&M puff-sleeve blouse, $34.95
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Pair with jeans and sneakers for the weekends or tailored pants and heels for work.
#9: High
People with longer necks would look great in high-neck tops and turtlenecks because it frames the face while hiding the length. Similarly, a person with a longer face would find this style flattering.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
9. High
Kate Spade bubble dot high-neck dress, US$498
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We love the elegant long sleeves and belted waist of this Kate Spade number, and its bright, cheery palette will make you the life of the party. Slip into a pair of silver heels to let this shine.
Mango chunky-knit sweater, $89.90
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This Mango sweater is a chic way to stay warm in a freezing office while not compromising on style points. Wear over a slinky slip dress and pair with strappy heels, or French tuck into a mini skirt for a preppy finish.
Read more on the next page.
#10: Strapless/Tube
Whether it is held on with a fitted bodice or elasticated bands, tube tops and strapless dresses highlights your entire upper body area, allowing you to bring attention to your shoulders and decollete. People with wider shoulders may not like this silhouette, as they’re great for those with narrow shoulders and slim toned arms.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
Strapless/Tube
Carolina Herrera faille strapless gown, $6,995 from MatchesFashion
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With a straight-across bust line, this strapless tube gown from Carolina Herrera features a dramatic brightly-coloured full skirt. A vibrant and sophisticated number for a black tie event or for dinner at an opulent restaurant. Finish with a sparkly choker.
Topshop strapless playsuit by Love, $89.90
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Need a weekend date outfit? Pair this effortless Topshop strapless playsuit with a pair of mules and a crossbody and you’re good to go.
#11: Cowl
Cowl necks can be distinguished by their draped fabric around the neck, and can be cut to resemble a round neck, or plunge as low as a V-neck. The latter adds “weight” to the bust area. If you have a bigger facial structure, a tighter drape can risk over-emphasising the face much like a round neck.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
11. Cowl
Valentino logo-print cowl neck silk-satin blouse, S$2,670 from MatchesFashion
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Ditch the need to wear necklaces with this cowl neck monogram blouse from Valentino that ends mid-chest. French tuck this silk-satin blouse into a pair of palazzos to channel a luxurious flair.
Mango towel fabric dress, $59.90
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This clean white number from Mango features a casual drape and is great for laidback meals. Wear it simply with just earrings, or put on a statement belt and black strappy heels to give it extra panache.
#12: Collared
Collared necklines have two different silhouettes. When fully buttoned, the silhouette is similar to that of a round neck. When unbuttoned, the exposure of the decollete and cleavage will have it vary between a shallow to plunge V-neck.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/style-tips-necklines-for-body-types/
Collared
Coach ruffle detail shirt, $395
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Eschew plain shirts by going with one that has unique details, like this piece that has a translucent feel and retro ruffles. Modernise this vintage-looking Coach shirt with a sleek pair of black pants and thin, delicate accessories. Or you can go all Americana with a pair of brown corduroy pants and boots, topped with a fringe jacket.
Zara oversized shirt with gold buttons, $69.90
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Juxtapose the slouchy quality of this Zara oversized shirt with a sleek pencil skirt for work, or you can even wear it over a bikini to the beach.
