Dress Codes & Style Guides
What Is a Sweetheart Neckline? A Guide to Sweetheart Dresses
A sweetheart neckline is shaped like the top of a heart: it curves over each side of the bust and dips into a soft V in the center. It is one of the most popular necklines for prom, wedding and formal dresses because it defines the bust, shows off the collarbone and shoulders, and makes the neck look longer. Sweetheart necklines come strapless or with straps, sleeves or an off-the-shoulder line, in every length from cocktail dresses to ball gowns.
In This Guide
What Does a Sweetheart Neckline Look Like?
Picture the top half of a heart. The neckline rises in two curves over the bust and meets in a dip at the center. The dip can be shallow and subtle or deep and dramatic. Most formal sweetheart dresses are built on a structured or corset bodice, which holds the shape in place.
Types of Sweetheart Necklines
- Strapless sweetheart: the classic version, with bare shoulders. The most common sweetheart style for prom and bridal.
- Sweetheart with straps: thin or wide straps add support and a softer look.
- Off-the-shoulder sweetheart: a sweetheart bodice with sleeves or a band across the upper arms.
- Illusion sweetheart: a sweetheart bodice under sheer mesh or lace that rises to a higher neckline.
- Modified or soft sweetheart: a gentler curve with only a slight dip, close to a straight neckline.
Who Looks Good in a Sweetheart Neckline?
Almost everyone. It's one of the most flattering necklines.
- Small busts: the curves add shape and the look of fullness.
- Fuller busts: choose a structured or corset bodice and a moderate dip; straps add extra support.
- Petite figures: the V at the center draws the eye down and up, which lengthens the neck and torso.
- Broad shoulders: the curved line softens the shoulders; an off-the-shoulder version balances them.
- Hourglass figures: a fitted sweetheart gown follows and highlights your curves.
Not sure about your shape? Enter your measurements in the Sherri Hill Fit Finder to see your body shape, your size and the silhouettes to try.
How to Style a Sweetheart Neckline
- Necklace: a sweetheart neckline leaves plenty of open space. A delicate pendant, a choker or a short collar necklace that sits above the dip all work. Skip long necklaces that fall into the V.
- Earrings: if you skip the necklace, wear statement or drop earrings.
- Hair: an updo shows off the shoulders and collarbone; soft waves worn down look romantic.
- Bra: many formal sweetheart dresses have a corset or structured bodice, so you may not need one. Otherwise, choose a strapless or plunge bra that sits below the neckline.
- Fit: the bodice should sit flat against your skin without gaping or digging in. A seamstress can take it in for a smooth line.
Sweetheart vs. Other Necklines
A straight-across strapless neckline has no dip in the center. A V-neck forms a straight-sided V rather than curves. A square neckline is cut straight across with corners. A halter fastens behind the neck. See neckline types for every style.
Sherri Hill Sweetheart Neckline Dresses
Sherri Hill dresses are sold through authorized retailers; use Find A Store to locate one near you. If the store doesn't have your color or size, the retailer can check whether it's available to order.
Style 55467
A fitted gown embroidered in leaf lace, cut strapless to a sweetheart neckline over a sheer corset bodice, with a slit in the skirt. It comes in twenty-two colors, including black, wine, emerald and red, in sizes 000 through 18. See style 55467.
Style 57045
A fitted sequin lace gown with a sweetheart neckline and a taffeta bow at the waist. It comes in ivory, blush, light blue, navy, red and black, in sizes 000 through 26. See style 57045.
Style 58333
A fitted strapless cocktail dress worked in hot fix stones, with a sweetheart neckline. It comes in black with silver, in sizes 000 through 18. See style 58333.
Style 58038
A fitted strapless dress in ruched mesh, with a sweetheart neckline. It comes in ten colors, including wine, berry, black and navy, in sizes 000 through 18. See style 58038.
See more in strapless dresses, and find your size with the Sherri Hill Size Guide.
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In the United States, Sherri Hill dresses are sold through authorized retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sweetheart neckline?
A neckline shaped like the top of a heart, curving over each side of the bust and dipping into a soft V at the center.
Who should wear a sweetheart neckline?
Almost anyone. It adds shape to smaller busts, flatters hourglass figures and lengthens the neck. Fuller busts look best with a structured bodice and a moderate dip.
What necklace goes with a sweetheart neckline?
A choker, a short collar necklace or a delicate pendant that sits above the dip. Avoid long necklaces that fall into the V.
Do you wear a bra with a sweetheart neckline?
Often not, if the dress has a corset or structured bodice. Otherwise, a strapless or plunge bra that sits below the neckline works well.
Is a sweetheart neckline good for a big bust?
Yes, with the right support. Choose a structured or corset bodice, a moderate dip and, if you like, straps.
What is the difference between a sweetheart and a V-neck?
A sweetheart neckline curves over the bust before dipping in the center. A V-neck runs in two straight lines to a point.
