The Ultimate Dress Neckline Guide

Choosing a dress isn't just about the print or the length—it's about the neckline. The right neckline can define your face, balance your shoulders, and completely change your silhouette. But with so many terms like "Surplice," "Bateau," and "Queen Anne," shopping can get confusing.

We’ve created the definitive encyclopedia of 30+ dress necklines for 2025. We analyzed thousands of searches and trends to bring you a practical guide that answers one simple question: Which one is right for me?

Whether you are looking to flatter a specific body type or just hunting for the best deals, use this guide to make smarter shopping choices.

1: The "Trend" Leaders 2025 Most Popular

Based on this year's search volume and runway trends.

1. Halter Neck

What it is: Straps that wrap around the back of the neck, leaving the shoulders and upper back bare. Why it’s trending: The "Y2K" vacation look is back. It’s sporty yet elegant. Best for: Athletic builds and toned arms. It highlights "straight" shoulders. Avoid if: You have very narrow or sloping shoulders, as it can exaggerate the slope. Shop the Look: Activewear & Halter Dresses – Pro tip: Our satin halter dresses are currently best-sellers for weddings.

2. Square Neck

What it is: A neckline cut in a straight horizontal line with right-angled corners. Why it’s trending: The "Bridgerton" effect. It frames the collarbone beautifully without revealing cleavage. Best for: Round faces (adds angular structure) and Fuller busts (provides support). Shop the Look: A-Line Dresses – Square necks pair perfectly with puff sleeves for a retro vibe.

3. Cowl Neck

What it is: Excess fabric draped at the neck to create soft, rounded folds. Why it’s trending: The 90s slip dress revival. It looks expensive and effortless. Best for: Small busts. The volume adds dimension. Shop the Look: Satin Dresses – Look for our silk-blend cowl necks for the best drape.

2: The "Body Type" Solvers Functional Styles

Use these styles to balance your proportions.

For Broad Shoulders To Narrow

• 4. V-Neck: The sharp vertical point draws the eye down, breaking up shoulder width. Shop V-Neck Styles

• 5. Asymmetric / One-Shoulder: Disrupts the horizontal line of the shoulders.

• 6. Deep Plunge: An exaggerated V for maximum vertical elongation.

For Narrow Shoulders / Pear Shapes To Widen

• 7. Boat Neck (Bateau): A wide, horizontal cut that follows the collarbone. It visually widens the shoulders to balance wide hips.

• 8. Off-the-Shoulder (Bardot): Draws a straight line across the top of the arms. Shop White Dresses

• 9. Straight Across (Strapless): Focuses attention entirely on the upper body.

For Short Necks To Elongate

• 10. Scoop Neck: A deep U-shape. The more skin visible below the chin, the longer the neck appears.

• 11. Sweetheart: A heart-shaped dip that lowers the neckline while enhancing curves.

Part 3: The Complete Encyclopedia (A-Z of Necklines)

Don't know the name? Find it here.

12. Apron Neck: A high, straight neckline (like an apron) often with an open back. Great for summer. 
13. Bib Neck: A front panel covering the chest, often attached by chains or distinct fabric. 14. Camisole: A straight or slightly curved neckline on thin straps.
15. Collared / Shirt: The classic button-down look. Professional and versatile. Shop Workwear
16. Crew Neck: Round and sits at the base of the neck. The standard T-shirt cut.
17. Cross-Front: Similar to a halter but straps cross in the front before going around the neck.
18. Cross-Back: Straps form an X on the back for support and style.
19. Grecian: Often gathered at the shoulder, draping across the chest diagonally.
20. High Neck: Covers the neck completely but without the fold of a turtleneck.
21. Illusion: Sheer mesh or lace paneling that gives the look of bare skin with coverage. 22. Jewel Neck: Round like a crew neck but slightly wider to accommodate a necklace.
23. Keyhole: A central cutout (tear-drop shape) just below the collarbone.
24. Mock Neck: A high collar that stands up but doesn't fold over. Sleek and modern.
25. Notch Neck: A round neck with a small V-notch cutout in the center.
26. Portrait: A wide scoop neck that extends to the tips of the shoulders (like a frame).
27. Queen Anne: High in the back, dipping to a sweetheart shape in the front. Vintage and regal.
28. Racerback: Shoulder blades are exposed; straps meet in a T or Y shape on the back. 29. Spaghetti Strap: Very thin shoulder straps.
30. Split Neck: A vertical slit in the center of the neckline.
31. Surplice / Wrap: Fabric crosses over the bust. The #1 most flattering style for all body types. Shop Wrap Dresses
32. Tie-Neck: Features attached ribbons to tie a bow. Very "Secretary Chic."
33. Turtleneck: A high collar that folds down.
34. Yoke: A separate panel of fabric around the neck and shoulders.

Part 4: Where to Find "Real Deals"?

Knowing the name is helpful, but finding the dress at a good price is better. At Rihoas, we group our collections to make this easy.

• Best for Basics (Crew, V-Neck): Check the All Under $30 Collection. These are wardrobe staples you shouldn't overpay for.

• Best for Work (Collared, Tie-Neck): Browse Work Tops & Bottoms. Professional cuts that are comfortable for 9-to-5.

• Best for Vacation (Halter, Backless): Visit Summer Vacation Outfits. We stock lightweight fabrics perfect for these open styles.

• Best for Events (Cowl, Asymmetric): Filter by Satin Dresses. These offer the high-end look of silk without the maintenance.

Final Tip: When shopping online, always check the "Description" for the specific neckline name. Now that you know the difference between a Cowl and a Scoop, you can find exactly what fits your body and your budget.

Final Analysis: The Neckline FAQ

Q1: Should I prioritize trends or my own comfort? Comfort is the non negotiable foundation of style. When you try on a dress, can you raise your arms? Can you breathe easily? If the answer is no, it is the wrong garment, regardless of its trend status.

Q2: How do I know if a neckline fits my actual life? Visualize the contexts where you will wear this dress. Work. Weddings. Dinners. Does this neckline feel appropriate or out of place in those settings? If it feels like a costume for a life you do not lead, reconsider.

Q3: What about the undergarment logistics? The right undergarments are not optional; they are structural. A spectacular dress with the wrong foundation will fail. If you do not own the right bra or tape for a halter or plunge, factor that into your purchase.

Q4: Will this piece work with my existing wardrobe? A smart purchase is versatile. Can you create at least three distinct outfits using this new piece? If the answer is yes, it has earned its place.

Q5: How do I know if it really looks good on me? Do not rely on the mirror alone. Take a quick photo. The camera's perspective is different. Does the image spark a definitive "yes" feeling? If it does, you have found your match.