What does neckline mean?
A neckline is the opening or decorative edge of a garment where it surrounds the neck. Its shape can strongly influence an outfit’s character: a high neckline may look modest, polished, or formal, while a low or V-shaped neckline may appear more relaxed, bold, or evening-oriented. Fashion descriptions often specify the neckline as round, square, boat-shaped, halter-style, or V-shaped, as well as describing its height. The word is also useful when discussing tailoring, garment construction, and the visual effect of clothing on the wearer. Although “collar” can sometimes overlap with it in general conversation, a collar is usually a separate attached or integral band, whereas a neckline is specifically the opening and its edge.
nounThe opening or edge of a garment around the neck, especially the part that frames the wearer’s neck and upper chest. Its shape and depth can vary widely, from a high crew neck to a low or plunging neckline.
- The opening or edge of a garment around the neck.
"She chose a dress with a square neckline and short sleeves."
"The jacket has a high neckline that can be fastened with a small button."
"Her understated outfit was softened by the delicate lace around the neckline."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"The designer showed several necklines in neutral colors."
A neckline is more than a border on a garment: it frames the face, sets the tone of an outfit, and can dramatically change how formal or revealing a piece appears.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does neckline come from?
The word is an English compound formed from “neck” and “line,” with “line” referring to the boundary or shape made by the garment around the neck. “Neck” comes through Old English from a Germanic word meaning the part of the body connecting the head to the trunk. The compound became established in English during the 19th century in the context of clothing and fashion.
Related word forms
How neckline is actually used
In fashion descriptions, neckline commonly describes the shape and depth of a garment’s neck opening, such as round, square, V-shaped, high, or low. The term is common in British and US English.