Types of Necklines

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The neckline is the top edge of a garment that surrounds the neck, seen from the front and the back, though the word most often refers to the styling from the front. 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, with a collar, cowl, darts or pleats. Because the neckline of the bodice frames your face, the choice deserves care — along with the fabric, shoulders and bust line. The main neckline styles are crewneck, mock neck, ringer, square neck, turtleneck, U-neck and V-neck.

Find the best neckline for your face & body type.  Be sure to also consider the fabric, shoulders, and bust line when making your decisions.

Time to learn more about necklines of shirts and dresses.

The neckline is the top edge of a garment that surrounds the neck.  It includes the front view and back view of the garment, but most often refers to the styling from the front view.  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.

Keep in mind that the the neckline of the bodice frames your face, so be sure to treat the neckline decision with the respect that it deserves.

The main types of neckline styles.

Crewneck

Mock Neck

Ringer Tees

Square Neck

Turtleneck

U-neck

V-neck

Fashion designers have the option of many existing types of necklines.  In theory, new ones can still be invented.  Below are a few of the neckline styles currently available for review & further research.

There are obviously a large number of factors that determine the success of a garment & outfit. Without a doubt a tops neckline is one of the most important.

Do you need to decide on a necklace to wear with your outfit?  When choosing the type or length of your necklace your type of neckline matters.  Matching your necklace to your neckline will create that perfectly appropriate and matching picture.  Choosing the wrong necklace can create a cluttered look so be cautious.  When deciding between the sweatheart, v-shaped, square, bateau, etc., keep in mind the jewelry you intend to wear as well.

Find the perfect neckline for your blouse, sweater, or dress.

Learn about types of collars.

Learn about different sleeve types.

You can also learn about the many different types of necklines and find illustrations at some of the following resources:

If you are planning on sewing your own shirts or a dress, keep in mind that sewing necklines can often be the most difficult part of sewing a shirt or dress.

You might also want to learn about the various different types of shirts.

Common Questions

What is a neckline?

A neckline is the top edge of a garment that surrounds the neck; it includes the front and back views of the garment, though it most often refers to the styling seen from the front.

What are the main types of necklines?

The main styles are the crewneck, mock neck, ringer tee neckline, square neck, turtleneck, U-neck and V-neck.

Why does neckline choice matter?

The neckline of the bodice frames the face, so it should be chosen with the wearer's face and body type in mind, together with the fabric, shoulders and bust line — and sewing a neckline is often the most difficult part of making a shirt or dress.

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