Written By Jimmy Huh
When it comes to fashion, one size definitely does not fit all. Everyone has a unique body shape and size, and understanding how to accentuate your best features can make a world of difference in how you look and feel.
An often underestimated aspect of clothing is the neckline. A flattering neckline can enhance your silhouette, draw attention to your favorite features, and even balance out proportions. From v neck to scoop neck, crewnecks to boat necks, there are a lot of choices.
In this guide, we'll delve into the art of choosing the most flattering neckline for your body type, whether you have broad shoulders, narrow shoulders, a long neck, large upper arms, or any other features. The goal is to help you make more informed decisions and feel more confident in whatever you wear.
Know Your Body Shape
The first step in choosing the perfect neckline is understanding your body shape. Different necklines can complement various body types, so identifying your shape is key. For women, common body shapes include hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Each comes with its own set of characteristics, and choosing necklines that harmonize with your body shape can create a flattering and balanced look.
There is less variation in men's body shapes, but you should take note of things like narrow shoulders and wide shoulders to help you find the most flattering necklines for you.
Men's Necklines
Crew Neck: Timeless Simplicity
The crew neck—sometimes called a jewel neckline—is a timeless and classic round neckline that sits high on the neck. Think t-shirts. This is a universally flattering neckline as it offers a clean and simple look. It's an excellent option for those with a well-defined physique, emphasizing the shoulders and chest. However, men with a fuller chest may find that the crew neck accentuates this area.
Scoop Necks: Casual Comfort
A scoop neckline looks like a crew neck that has been extended. On scoop neck tops, the wider neckline dips down just a few inches from your collarbone, making them ideal for casual outfits.
V-Neck: Effortless Versatility
V necks are a versatile neckline and complement a range of styles and body types. The diagonal lines create a slimming effect, making it a great choice for men with shorter necks. V necks also showcase a well-maintained chest and add a touch of sophistication to casual and formal outfits.
Henleys: Casual Cool
The henley neck combines elements of the crew neck and the v neck, featuring a partial button-up front. This neckline is perfect for those who like a casual yet stylish look. It draws attention to the chest, making it an excellent choice for men with a more athletic build. Henleys are also flattering on those with a long neck.
Polos: Sporty Elegance
Polos are a sporty and elegant choice, especially if you like to look like you just stepped off the golf course or tennis court. With a folded collar and a button-up placket, it offers a polished look that works well for both casual and semi-formal occasions. The polo neck can add a touch of refinement to the wardrobe of men with various body types.
Varsity Neck: Athletic Appeal
The varsity neck, often seen on athletic-inspired jackets, features a V-shaped neckline with contrasting color or fabric. This sporty choice is perfect for men who want to channel an athletic aesthetic. It works well for those with broader shoulders, adding a touch of visual interest to your upper body.
Zip Neck: Casual Edge
The zip neck combines the simplicity of the crew neck and the look of a henley with the functionality of a zipper. This casual and contemporary neckline is a great option for those who appreciate a laid-back yet stylish appearance.
Square Neck: Unique and Daring
Square necklines are a twist on the classic crew neck. Choose a square neckline on a tank top to add a bit of edge, or a square neck tee to elevate your everyday look.
Women's Necklines
Of course, women can—and do—wear any of the above necklines! But here are a few that are typically reserved for ladies.
Boat Neck: Elegance and Balance
Boat necklines—also known as a bateau or wide neckline—run parallel to the collarbone and extend toward the shoulders. This elegant neckline is excellent for balancing proportions and highlighting your shoulders. If you have a rectangle or apple body shape, the boat neck can add width to your shoulders, creating the illusion of an hourglass figure.
Off The Shoulder Necklines: Showing a Little Skin
Off the shoulder necklines—also known as a Bardot neckline after actress Brigitte Bardot—are a popular choice for everything from sweaters to formal dresses. This style cuts right across your chest, between your collar bone and bust. This style looks best on women with a small to medium bust and narrow shoulders. It's the most flattering neckline for those with pear, athletic, petite, and hourglass shapes.
Sweetheart Neckline: Romantic and Feminine
The sweetheart neckline is characterized by its curved shape, resembling the top half of a heart. This romantic and feminine neckline is a flattering style for those with an hourglass or pear shape as it accentuates the bust and complements a well-defined waist. The sweetheart neckline can also add curves to those with a rectangle shape by creating the illusion of a fuller bust.
Cowl Neck: Loose and Chic
Cowl necks are most often found on women's clothing, but they may be found on men's sweaters and hoodies from time to time. This style has a loose draped fabric collar and can be found on everything from tees to tops with spaghetti straps to evening gowns. A cowl neck draws attention to your neck and bust, so it's most flattering if you have a long neck and small bust.
Halter Neck: Showcasing Shoulders
Halter necklines feature a strap that wraps around the back of the neck, leaving the shoulders and upper back exposed. This style is perfect for individuals with well-defined shoulders and a balanced body shape, such as the hourglass. It can also add a touch of allure to those with a pear or rectangle shape by drawing attention upward.
The Right Neckline Makes All the Difference
Choosing the right neckline involves understanding your unique body shape to accentuate your best features. By taking a little extra time to pick your neckline, you can transform the way you approach getting dressed.
Jimmy Huh
