Elevate Your Prom Look: A Guide to 10 Neckline Choices (2024)

So you’ve chosen your prom vibe. Now you need to think more about specific aspects of the dress. Like its neckline. This is much more important than it might sound. The right neckline can play up all the right assets. Or play down the wrong ones. It can give you the perfect spot to place a statement necklace, or it can allow you to put your hair up just the way you want.

Here are ten of the most common prom dress necklines. We’ll have a look at what features they draw attention to, and what body types they look best on. 

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V-neck

A V-neckline quite simply forms a V shape. The point of the V points downwards and can be varying levels of depth. If you’re looking for drama, aim for a plunging v-neck. 

If you want to bring attention to your neckline, a v-neck is a great choice. This cut elongates your upper body. It also looks great on many different body types. A v-neck is especially flattering if you have a larger bust as it helps create a balanced look.

Scoop Neck

A scoop neckline forms a U shape. It is deep and wide. A scoop neck will highlight your collarbone as well as your chest area. 

This is the one to go for if you want to show off some cleavage! 

Scoop necklines are flattering for most body types, but they can help you if you have a smaller bust. Or if you find that your shoulders often appear broad, this cut can help balance them out.

Ever-Pretty Women’s Scoop Neck Chiffon Dress

Square Neck

A square neckline has two angles that are nearly 90 degrees. Between them the fabric sits straight across your chest, forming half of a rectangle. This cut is usually quite wide. 

A square neckline will frame your collarbone and create a structured look. If you have narrow shoulders this is a good pick as the square cut can add a bit more definition to your upper body.

MASCOMODA Square Neck Lantern Long Sleeve Mini Dress

Off-The-Shoulder

An off-the-shoulder dress sits just below your shoulders, leaving them exposed. 

This cut really accentuates your shoulders as well as your collarbone. If you’re into showing off that strong clavicle bone, this is the right choice for you. 

Or if you have nice, defined shoulders, an off-the-shoulder look will suit you well.

Boat Neck

A boat neck has a wide, straight, horizontal cut that runs high across your collarbone. 

If you want to give the illusion of having broader shoulders, a boat neck cut is a good bet for that. This cut again will also emphasize your collarbone. The boat neck is a good choice to balance out a pear-shaped body.

Halter Neck

A halter top dress has a strap or a band that wraps around the back of your neck, leaving your shoulders and upper back exposed. 

This look draws attention to those two areas – so it’s perfect for showing off some upper body toning. 

Sweetheart Neck

This neckline creates the shape of the top half of a heart. This is a great way to accentuate or add the illusion of volume to your bust. These cuts though are also great for people who already have a big bust as they provide a high level of support.

Keyhole Neck

A keyhole neckline has a rounded or teardrop-shaped opening near the neckline. This is usually formed with either a button or tie closure. These holes can be a variety of sizes. 

This cut subtly draws attention to your neckline. It’s also a fun way to provide a touch of interest without being overly revealing.

One-Shoulder

A one-shoulder neckline is an asymmetrical cut with one shoulder exposed. 

This style can create a balanced look if you have broader shoulders. This is also a very easy way to add an elegant touch and a bit of interest to your look.

PRETTYGARDEN Women’s One Shoulder Wrap Midi Dress

Cowl Neck

A cowl neck dress has draped fabric around the chest which creates a soft effect. This neckline adds volume so it’s a great choice if you have a smaller bust. However, some cowls have a lot more volume than others, so you can choose exactly how much extra cushion across your chest you want to have.

The neckline of your prom dress is so important. This selection of ten common necklines is a good place to start as you strategize and make your selection for your special night.

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