Previously I shared some personal style tips on how to choose jewelry and purses based on your frame size and shape. I even included a method for quickly determining which one you are. If you missed it, click here! Today, I want to share an oft-overlooked style element that can help you find the look and lines that flatter you best: necklines.
Your face shape is a prominent factor in choosing the neckline that will look best on you. When I shared my jewelry tips, I created a guide with some famous faces to help you identify your face shape. You can pick out your celebrity doppelganger HERE and then pop back over for my recommendations on the accommodating neckline.
Round – I love geometric shaped jewelry for round faces as these add length and shape to your face. The same applies to your neckline! Square, strapless, off the shoulder, one shoulder, halter and v-necklines are going to be your most flattering styles!
Oval – Genetic royalty! There aren’t too many necklines that don’t look great on you. If you love it, then rock that look, baby!
Triangle or Heart – Your most flattening necklines are those that add a bit of width at your collar bone. Show a little shoulder with a halter or off-the-shoulder neckline. Crew, high-v or high cowl and boat necks will also look nice on you.
Square – Geometric shapes are to be avoided as you want soft lines to balance your naturally strong features. Crew, U, sweetheart, cowl or jewel necklines are your best bet. Straight lines aren’t as flattering.
Rectangle/Long – With a few exceptions, you and square can follow the same rules. Steer clear of necklines that elongate your face such as a deep, plunging V or U. You can’t go wrong with more straightforward profiles such as a boat, cowl or jewel neckline.
Diamond – You share a similar neckline strategy as triangle and heart shapes. Look to necklines that add a bit of width, yet not too much, at your collar and chest bones.
BONUS! Here are a few additional thoughts on neckline profiles:
If you have narrow shoulders, cowl, jewel, boat, off-the-shoulder, halter, strapless and square necklines all help to visually widen your shoulder. Steer clear of v-necks and plunging necklines which further slim your shoulder width.
Strong, broad shoulders are minimized by wearing thick (not thin!) straps, one-shoulder looks, V-necks, sweetheart, plunging and low round necklines. Styles that accentuate width are halter, boatneck, off-the-shoulder, strapless, turtlenecks, and high round necks. Avoid these whenever possible!
Where my short torso girls at? Get daring with a deep plunge V-neck, sexy halter, low scoop or sweetheart neckline to visually elongate the length of your torso.
Long torso gals, you should feel confident in off-the-shoulder, strapless, and square necklines, which will help to draw the eye up and diminish the length of your torso.
And, my final fashion thought........
Personal style is about feeling your best, most confident self! Think of these rules (and all other style rules) as a toolbox to pull from when building your signature style, or when you have that special occasion where you want your look to wow. Maybe these rules will influence your next clothing purchase as you learn to curate pieces with flattering lines that you love. Rules can and should be broken from time to time. In fact, the only rule I follow explicitly is to spread kindness like confetti! And on that note, go, be colorful, be bold, and be-YOU-ti-ful!
Have a burning style question? Ask, and I’ll answer. Swear! Email me!