Boat Neck Style Guide: Who Can Rock This Look?

A boat neck, also known as a bateau or Sabrina neckline, is a wide, horizontal neckline that runs across the collarbone. It is a graceful, elegant style that draws the eye towards the shoulders and can give the illusion of better posture. This neckline is said to be best suited for those with a small to medium bust and narrow shoulders. It is also a good choice for those with a fuller midsection, as it helps to balance out proportions by drawing attention outwards. While boat necks are considered flattering for a variety of body types, they are particularly recommended for those with a square jaw or chin, as the flat neckline complements the angular features of square and rectangle face shapes.

Who has a small to medium bust

A boat neck, also known as a bateau or Sabrina neckline, is a wide neckline that runs horizontally across the collarbone. It is a graceful and elegant style that can give the illusion of better posture.

Boat necks are a good choice for those with a small to medium bust as they can create the illusion of a bigger and rounder bust. This is because the high, round neckline draws attention to the bust area. If you have a small to medium bust and wider shoulders, a sleeveless high boat neck showcases your shoulders and accentuates your bust.

Boat necks also work well on narrow shoulders as the horizontal line across the shoulder bone visually points to the shoulders, giving the illusion of wider shoulders. If you want to emphasise this effect, you can add a horizontal stripe.

If you have a small to medium bust, you can also experiment with necklaces to accessorise your boat neck. Try long, layered necklaces or a fun, oversized pendant to create a little interest.

Who has a narrow frame

A boat neck, also known as a bateau or Sabrina neckline, is a wide neckline that runs horizontally across the collarbone. It is said to suit those with a narrow frame, especially those with narrow shoulders, as the horizontal line visually widens the shoulders. It is also a good option for those with a small bust, as it can give the illusion of a rounder, fuller bust.

Boat necks are also a good choice for those with a square jaw or chin, as the flat neckline harmonises with the jawline's straight lines. This neckline is less flattering for those with wide shoulders, or a very square shoulder line that you want to soften.

If you have a narrow frame and are looking for a top or dress with a boat neckline, it is also worth considering the following:

• Necklaces: As boat necks are a wider neckline, they can be worn with long, layered necklaces or a fun, oversized pendant.
• Prints: Boat necks often feature stripes, especially in a nautical navy and white colourway. Stripes can also help to give the illusion of a wider frame.
• Face shape: Boat necks are said to suit those with oval and round faces.

Who wants to balance a fuller midsection

A boat neck, also known as a bateau or Sabrina neckline, is a wide neckline that runs horizontally across the collarbones. It is a graceful and elegant style, traditionally used in nautical-inspired sweaters and knitwear, but also featured in cocktail dresses and evening wear. The boat neckline draws the eye out towards the shoulders and can balance a fuller midsection. It is best suited for those with a small to medium bust and is less flattering on wide shoulders.

If you want to balance a fuller midsection, a boat neck can be a great option. Here are some tips and suggestions to style a boat neck outfit:

• The boat neck style is particularly flattering for those with a square jaw or chin, as it harmonises with the flatter planes of these jawlines. It draws the eyes wider and creates a horizontal line, which can help to balance out fuller midsections.
• When choosing a boat neck top or dress, consider your body proportions. If you have a fuller midsection, opt for a boat neck that hits just past the collarbone, as this will create a lengthening effect and draw attention to your collarbones.
• To balance a fuller midsection, pair your boat neck top or dress with long, layered necklaces or an oversized pendant. This will create a stylish and flattering look.
• If you have a fuller midsection and want to create a slimming effect, consider combining a boat neck with vertical stripes. This will help to elongate your silhouette and create a more balanced appearance.
• Fabrics such as lightweight knits or breathable cotton can be comfortable and flattering for a boat neck style, especially if you have a fuller midsection. They will drape nicely and create a sleek silhouette.
• If you want to add a layer over your boat neck top, consider an open or loose-fitting cardigan or jacket. This will create a balanced look while maintaining the flattering effect of the boat neckline.

Who wants to draw attention to their collarbones

A boat neck, also known as a bateau or Sabrina neckline, is a wide neckline that runs horizontally across the collarbones. It is a graceful style that can give the illusion of better posture.

If you want to draw attention to your collarbones, a boat neck is an excellent choice. This neckline is particularly flattering for those with a square jaw or chin, as it harmonises with the flatter planes of these jawlines. It also draws the eyes wider, creating a horizontal line that can balance out hips and shoulders.

Boat necks are best suited for those with a small to medium bust. If you have a larger bust, you may want to opt for a V-neck or scoop neck instead, as these styles can help to visually minimise the bust. Additionally, if you have narrow shoulders, a boat neck can work well by visually pointing towards the shoulders.

When styling a boat neck, you can create interest by pairing it with long, layered necklaces or an oversized pendant. This neckline is quite versatile and can be dressed up or down, making it a great choice for a range of occasions.

Who wants to elongate their neck

A boat neck, also known as a bateau or Sabrina neckline, is a wide neckline that runs horizontally across the collarbone. It is a graceful, elegant style that draws the eye out towards the shoulders and can give the illusion of better posture.

If you want to elongate your neck, a boat neck could be a good option for you, but it depends on your body type and face shape.

Boat necks are best suited for those with a small to medium bust. They are particularly flattering on people with narrow shoulders because the horizontal line across the collarbone visually points to the shoulders, giving the illusion of width. This style can help to balance out wider hips.

If you have a long neck and face, a boat neck can also work well for you, as it will draw the eye horizontally and add some width to balance out your features.

On the other hand, if you have wide shoulders, a boat neck may not be the most flattering choice, as it can make your shoulders appear even wider.

In addition to body type, your face shape will also determine whether a boat neck will elongate your neck. If you have an oval or round face, a boat neck can help to balance out your longer face length by adding a bit of width.

Overall, a boat neck can be a great choice for those who want to elongate their neck, especially if you have a small to medium bust, narrow shoulders, or a long neck and face. However, if you have wide shoulders or a shorter neck, you may want to consider a different neckline that will be more flattering for your body type and face shape.

Frequently asked questions