HOW TO - Choose a Neckline

Some necklines work better than others, depending on body type. Read on to see what might work best for you!

Strapless:


Dresses without straps WILL stay put; they just need to fit correctly. Many women mistakenly think that the gown needs to be tightest at the top, or that they have to have a chest like Barbie to keep the gown up. In reality, anyone can wear a strapless gown. If the dress is tight enough just above your hips, your hips will actually hold the dress up, the weight of the dress will rest on them – even if it’s too big in the top. If the waist fits you correctly and the top is too big, the top can be taken in. Many prom dresses are being made with a corset-style back. The lace-up feature allows the wearer to tighten it until the top fits, which cuts back on a LOT of alterations!

Strapless dresses are either straight across on the top, or have a sweetheart top, which looks like a heart. Both are great, but some people find that they like one or the other better on their body. Petite girls may find that a sweetheart neckline will make them look taller, because it will give a longer line from the top of the dress to the chin.

Plunging Halter:


For plunging necklines, you may think that its best to have a large chest, but the opposite is actually true. If you are smaller on top, your parts won’t be trying to “escape” from the gown, and tape will easily secure you all night.

Halter:


This universally flattering neckline has a strap that goes behind your neck, but doesn’t “plunge” like the previous example. Regardless of chest size, this neckline is supportive, flattering, and stylish. Usually the neck straps are too long (even if you ARE six feet tall!), so expect to have to shorten it!

Spaghetti Straps:


Most strapless dresses come with straps that can be added. Sometimes you can have your seamstress add hooks or snaps, so they can be added later in the evening if you feel your dress slipping when you start dancing (although if you’ve had it altered – this shouldn’t happen). Some dresses come with straps already sewn on, and they are usually fairly easy to remove, or just tuck in if you want a strapless look. If you plan to wear the straps, expect to have them shortened to fit you!

Modest:


Some prom manufacturers offer gowns that are created specially for those who value modesty. Given enough time, we can order these in, with high necklines and sleeves. If we don't have time to order something, there are lots of ways to modify what is in the store to meet your needs. You can add fabric to raise a neckline, create wider straps or sleeves, lower or close a slit, or add a jacket or shawl over the dress to give more coverage. Please let us know your specific needs so that we can help you in the best way possible!