Choosing the neckline for your dress will be one of the biggest factors involving deciding on your gown. There are a variety of cuts to choose from, and some are flattering only to specific body types. So even if you had your heart set on strapless, be sure it will compliment your best attributes.
If you have a full bust, or are pear shaped:
Best Cuts: V-Neck, Scoop, and Off The shoulder. The sweet heart neckline can also work well if you are no larger than a C, as there is very little support with the lack of straps. The off the shoulder is flattering to many figures, since it will accentuate the collarbone and shoulders, and it has sleeves to cover part of the upper arm. A portrait is a good alternative if you are more conscious about your arms.
Worst Cuts: Jewel, Bateau. Both necklines will only make your bust look bigger, and if you are already well endowed, that’s not a feature you need.
If you have a small bust:
Best Cuts: Bateau, Jewel, Scoop. These will help you appear bustier and accentuate the collarbone. It’s good to draw the attention to your other attributes, and help fill out your figure.
Worst Cuts: Strapless, V-Neck. These play down the bust or accentuate your lack of fullness.
If you have broad shoulders or are tall:
Best Cuts: Scoop, Strapless, Halter or High Neck. Straps that wrap around the neck or high necklines with deep armholes best compliment tall women or those who want to make their shoulders appear more narrow.
Worst Cuts: Off the shoulder, Bateau. As these only accentuate the line of the collarbone and widen the shoulders.
If you have full arms:
Best Cuts: Portrait or Scoop. This is especially flattering if you have defined collarbones. The scoop draws the attention elsewhere, where the portrait covers the top part of the arms.
Worst Cuts: Off The Shoulder. This cut will only accentuate the arms and make it appear as though the dress doesn’t fit you.
Good to know: The scoop neckline flatters almost any figure. The Off The Shoulder and Square necklines are generally flattering all around.
More detailed information: Wedding Dress Designer.
Inspiration: The Knot.
Neckline Photos: Wedding Solutions
