How to Wear a Bardot Top or Dress?

Do you have an off-the-shoulder top or dress, but are wondering how to incorporate it into your wardrobe? Would you like to know if the bardot neckline, which reveals the shoulders, flatters your body shape?

You've come to the right place.

As a fashion enthusiast, I love seeing original clothing styles make a comeback. One such style is the Bardot neckline, which exposes your shoulders and enhances your décolletage!

Today, I'm offering you a comprehensive guide on the subject, packed with tips on how to wear it and plenty of inspiring outfit examples.

Popularised by Brigitte Bardot, the actress and model from the 1960s, the Bardot neckline is perfect for summer days. It suits most body shapes, except perhaps those with broader shoulders, who might prefer an asymmetrical neckline instead. Highly versatile, the Bardot neckline works well with both bohemian chic outfits that are light and feminine, as well as more dressed-up styles when paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt. Finally, I strongly recommend wearing necklaces and earrings with a top or dress that features bare shoulders to highlight your neckline!

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:

• The origin of the off-the-shoulder neckline and the person who made it famous,
• Whether the Bardot neckline suits your body shape, ,
• How to wear it, whether it’s a dress or a top,
• Tips to enhance your décolletage,
• … Along with plenty of bohemian, classic, and chic outfit ideas featuring off-the-shoulder styles!

Where Does the Bardot Collar Come From?

You're familiar with off-the-shoulder tops and dresses, which have been quite trendy in recent years, but did you know that this style is also referred to as a Bardot neckline? The name actually comes from Brigitte Bardot, who popularised this type of neckline. This sixties icon was the muse for many great artists of the time and a fashion icon, remaining famous for her beauty, which made her incredibly photogenic.

In the 1960s and 70s, Brigitte Bardot became a true icon for women of the time. The outfits she wore during her public appearances were quickly snapped up and imitated. One could say she was an influencer long before the days of the internet and social media.

This is how the off-the-shoulder neckline, characterised by its bare shoulders, became very popular in the 70s, a time that was also associated with the hippie movement, which is why this style of cut is now considered typical of the bohemian style.

Which body shape does this type of top complement?

This type of collar, very feminine, is perfect for warm weather and pairs easily with a variety of outfits. However, one might wonder if this unique cut will flatter our body shape. Indeed, it draws attention to the shoulders, neck, and décolletage.

The answer to this question is quite straightforward: the Bardot neckline suits most body shapes, whether you're slim or curvy, tall or petite. However, if you have broader shoulders, it may accentuate them a bit too much and might not be the best choice. In that case, I recommend opting for an asymmetrical neckline, which will reveal just one of your shoulders. The diagonal line of this cut will help visually narrow your shoulders.

👉 If you're not keen on showing off your arms, there are also tops and dresses that reveal your shoulders while covering your arms. These are perfect for the transitional seasons and help to flatter your silhouette.

A lightweight off-the-shoulder dress, perfect for summer

Are you looking for a light and feminine outfit to beat the summer heat? An off-the-shoulder dress is the perfect choice. Super lightweight, it accentuates your neckline and helps you achieve that perfect tan!

Depending on your body shape, I recommend the following:

• A long dress if you're tall, curvy, or have an athletic build,
• A short dress if you're petite.

I also recommend light colours like white or pastel shades, as well as floral prints, which will perfectly complement the bohemian style of this type of dress.

Exposed Shoulders: An Iconic Detail of Bohemian Chic Style

As we mentioned earlier in this article, the Bardot collar is iconic of the bohemian chic style. This fashion trend is characterised by lightweight, flowy, and comfortable clothing, allowing you to move freely. But that's not all: it also includes feminine dresses and tops, featuring delicate elements that enhance your figure. Lace inserts, ruffles, floral patterns, and puffed sleeves are all details that will highlight your features and make you feel beautiful in your outfits.

👉 Are you intrigued by bohemian fashion? Does it reflect your style? I invite you to visit our online store now, to explore our collection of dresses, tops, and other unique, well-tailored bohemian clothing!

Discover our bohemian dresses for summer

A Bardot top with jeans is the perfect combination for a casual yet feminine outfit

Do you love wearing jeans for comfort? If so, you probably know that a stylish and well-fitted top is the perfect partner to add a touch of originality to your outfit! Off-the-shoulder tops and blouses are no exception to this rule; in fact, they are ideal for highlighting your waist and maintaining the proportions of your silhouette, especially if you're wearing high-waisted or mid-rise jeans, whether they're fitted or not.

🎨 To beautifully contrast the blue of your jeans, you can wear a top in bright and vibrant colours, or possibly white. Don't hesitate to opt for unique clothing, featuring lace, pearls, pretty buttons, sheer effects, or embroidery...

With a high-waisted skirt for a chic and sophisticated outfit

Are you on the lookout for a smart outfit for a special occasion or a demanding work situation? If so, you can easily pair a simple and sophisticated bardot top with a high-waisted, plain pencil skirt. This ensemble works exceptionally well, as the slim fit of the skirt contrasts beautifully with the flowy and loose neckline of the bardot top.

For this type of outfit, you can wear luxurious and silky fabrics, which will add a touch of elegance to the whole look. A lovely pair of heels will make for the perfect finishing touch to your outfit!

👉 If you're aiming for a lovely silhouette, you can wear shaping and sculpting underwear underneath this outfit, preferably in a high-waisted style or even as a full bodysuit.

Show Off Your Bare Shoulders with Stunning Jewellery

Now that you have a better understanding of the various style options available with an off-the-shoulder top or dress, I’d like to share how to accessorise this type of outfit.

With this type of collar that draws attention to your shoulders, neck, and face, jewellery is a perfect way to showcase your true self and add a touch of brightness to your outfit.

A gold or silver necklace will help to visually narrow your shoulders and should be fully visible.

You can also choose statement earrings that match the colours of your outfit.

👉 You may have noticed in the photos featured in this article that the models wearing this style never show their bra straps. This would completely ruin the off-shoulder effect and the distinctive cut of these garments. Therefore, I recommend opting for a strapless bra or even invisible straps to pair with a bardot neckline! 😉

An alternative to the Bardot neckline: the strapless top or dress

Not quite sure if a Bardot neckline is your style? In that case, you might want to consider wearing a top or dress with a bustier. Contrary to what you might think, this style suits people with a small bust and actually highlights their waist. Just make sure to choose a straight bustier. On the other hand, if you have a fuller bust, I recommend a heart-shaped bustier to flatter your lovely curves.

You’ve now become an expert in Bardot collars, and I hope this article has helped you incorporate it into your wardrobe! Feel free to check out our boutique, which offers numerous bohemian clothing styles with off-the-shoulder designs!

🧵 Do you love sewing? If so, why not give making your own off-the-shoulder top a go by following the tips provided in this video: