The Sweetheart
Designer Wedding Dress Neckline Cuts
When shopping for a wedding dress, it is important to be aware of the different neckline cuts that are out there. It is important to remember that different necklines compliment different body types. With so many options currently available, ranging from a sweetheart cut to a strapless look to the off-the-shoulder style, a bride-to-be may not know where to start! If you are in the midst of making a decision on a designer wedding dress, becoming knowledgeable about specific neckline cuts can help you make the right decision.
The Sweetheart
The sweetheart neckline resembles the top half of a heart, hence the name. This neckline is a good option for the fuller-figured bride as it accentuates the chest area. In most cases, the sweetheart neckline has an overlay of sheer material rising above the heart-shape or some subtle piping, both of which give a longer, leaner look to the torso. This effect also makes the neck look longer and more romantic. Brides with a more boyish figure should avoid the sweetheart neckline.
The Strapless
While some brides should avoid the strapless neckline, it does wonders for others. In many cases, the strapless neckline can be paired with the sweetheart neckline or straight neckline which gives the bride the illusion of a smaller figure. Women with broad shoulders should avoid the strapless wedding dress but those with delicate shoulders and collarbones will do quite well with this style.
The Off-the-Shoulder
The off-the-shoulder wedding dress neckline is a very popular one. Just as you would imagine, the neckline starts just below your shoulders and emphasizes the neck, shoulders, and collarbone. The off-the-shoulder neckline has small sleeves that cover the top part of the arm. This neckline is flattering to all figures, but brides with fuller arms or issues with their shoulders should avoid it. This style is ideal for pear-shaped women, and anyone who would want to show off their shoulders.
The Sabrina
The Sabrina neckline, also known as the bateau neckline, is great for brides with a certain body type. This neckline, cut straight across, follows the curve of the collarbone, edging near the tip of the shoulders. The Sabrina is usually accompanied by sleeves though many designers are now pairing it with sleeveless dress styles. Well-endowed women should avoid the Sabrina neckline.
The Portrait
Women with full arms and prominent collarbones may seriously consider the portrait neckline for their wedding dress. Similar to the off-the-shoulder style but with more fabric, the portrait scoops across the shoulders (from tip to tip). If you have an undefined collarbone, this is probably not the neckline for you.
The Scoop
Anyone, no matter what body type, can wear the scoop neckline. It is the ultimate classic style and can be either low or high cut. In many cases, the scoop in the front is complimented by a lower scoop in the back.
How To Choose A Wedding Dress
One of the most exciting aspects of a wedding is the hunt for the perfect wedding dress. Most brides already have a rough idea about the type of dress they would like to wear on that day and this is usually a good starting point.
Even if you have a certain type of dress in mind, you will need to make sure that it suits the type of wedding you want to have. For example, if you are picturing yourself in a princess style dress but want a more causal beach wedding then the two will clash. This is why it is always best to start looking for your wedding dress early. If you find the perfect dress but it doesn suit the rest of the wedding then you will have time to alter the wedding style to match your dress.
Budget aside, the most important factor in deciding which dress to choose will be your body shape. As you try on different dresses and come across different styles, take note of the dresses that flatter your body shape the best. Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day so make sure you choose a wedding dress that enhances your best features and hides what you want to keep hidden.
When shopping for your wedding dress it would be a good idea to take your mum or maid of honour along for the ride. This way, you can get a second opinion on which dress to choose. Just make sure that who ever you take along is straightforward enough to tell you when a dress suits you and when a dress doesn. To choose a wedding dress that is perfect for you it is always better to shop with someone whose opinion you can trust.
Finally keep in mind that this is your day. When you find the perfect dress that makes you look exactly how you pictured you should on your wedding day then don let it go. After all, if it doesn suit the rest of your wedding theme you could always tweak your wedding theme a little to enhance the dress.
