Sweetheart Neckline
“Sweetheart Neckline”, not to be confused with a “V Neckline”, are almost always found on wedding dresses or other formal gowns. Occasionally they can be found on tank tops, casual dresses, and other shirts. This type of neckline has a curved bottom edge that is concave down and usually doubly scalloped to resemble the top half of a heart. The side edges often converge on the neck, similar to halter necklines. Sweetheart necklines are good for accentuating the bosom. That is why it is frequently seen on Wedding apparel.
No one is exactly sure of the origins of the sweetheart neckline. There are those that claim the scalloped trip necklines of the Renaissanceage in Italy were the first true sweetheart necklines. Others credit 18th century French designers with creating the attractive contours of the sweetheart neckline. A third school of thought places the first sweetheart neckline as appearing in the court of Isabella in 15th century Spain. Whatever the origins of the sweetheart neckline, no one can dispute the fact that the design has made a powerful impact on ladies’ formal wear for quite a long time.
Traditionally, many of the more formal and intricately designed wedding dresses will employ a scalloped neckline in the general contours of the sweetheart. Typically, this design will be one of the several elements that separate the bridal gown from the gowns or dresses worn by the other members of the bride’s party. Considered as a wonderful way to invoke both a sense of beauty and attractiveness in the appearance of the bride, the sweetheart neckline both covers and displays in a combination that many people find very appealing.
Filed under: Fashion Library, necklines