How to Wear a Bardot Top or Dress?

Do you have a top or a dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves, but you're wondering how to incorporate it into your wardrobe? Are you curious if the Bardot neckline, which exposes the shoulders, is flattering for your body shape?

You're in the right place.

As a fashion enthusiast, I love seeing original clothing cuts making a comeback. This is particularly true for the Bardot neckline, which exposes your shoulders and enhances your décolleté!

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, although those with wider shoulders might prefer an asymmetric neckline instead. Very versatile, the Bardot neckline works well for both chic bohemian outfits that are fluid and feminine, as well as a more dressed-up look when paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt. Lastly, I highly recommend wearing necklaces and earrings with a top or dress that has exposed shoulders to highlight your décolletage!

Want to know more? Keep reading to find out about:

• The origins of the off-the-shoulder collar and the person who popularised it,
• Whether the Bardot collar suits your body type,
• How to wear it, whether it's a dress or a top,
• Tips for enhancing your neckline,
• ... 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 popular in recent years, but did you know that this style is also known as a Bardot neckline? The name actually comes from Brigitte Bardot, who made this type of neckline famous. This sixties icon was the muse for many great artists of the time and a fashion symbol, renowned for her beauty that made her incredibly photogenic.

In the 1960s and 70s, Brigitte Bardot became a true role model for women of her time. The clothes she wore during her public appearances were immediately bought and worn in the same style. You could say she was an influencer long before the days of the internet and social media.

This is how the bardot collar, known for its off-the-shoulder design, became hugely popular in the 70s, a time associated with hippies, which is why this type of cut is now seen as typical of the bohemian style.

What body shape does this type of top highlight?

This type of collar, which is very feminine, is ideal for sunny 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 cleavage.

The answer to this question is quite straightforward: the Bardot neckline suits most body shapes, whether you’re slim or a bit curvier, tall or petite. However, if you have broad shoulders, this style may accentuate them a bit and might not be the best fit. In that case, I recommend opting for an asymmetrical neckline, which will showcase one of your shoulders. The diagonal line of this cut will help to visually reduce your shoulder width.

👉 If you're not keen on exposing your arms, there are also tops and dresses that reveal your shoulders while covering your arms. These are perfect for the mid-season and help to streamline your figure.

A light bardot collar dress, perfect for summer

Are you in search of a light, feminine outfit to cope with the summer heat? The off-the-shoulder dress is perfect for you. It's incredibly light, enhances your neckline, and lets you work on your tan!

Depending on your body shape, I recommend the following:

• A long dress if you are tall, curvy, or have an athletic build,
• A short dress if you are 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 Boho Chic Style

As we mentioned earlier in this article, the Bardot neckline is iconic of the bohemian chic style. This fashion trend is characterised by lightweight, flowing, and comfortable clothing, which allows for a great range of movement. But that’s not all: it also includes feminine dresses and tops, featuring delicate elements that enhance your figure. Details like lace inserts, ruffles, floral patterns, and balloon sleeves are just a few features that will highlight your look and make you feel beautiful in your outfits.

👉 Are you intrigued by bohemian fashion? Does it resonate with your style? Join us now at our online store to discover our collection of dresses, tops and other unique, well-crafted bohemian clothing!

discover our bohemian dresses for summer

A Bardot-style top paired with jeans: the perfect combination for a casual yet feminine look

Do you love wearing jeans for comfort? If so, you probably know that a smartly fitted and stylish top is the perfect way to add a touch of individuality to your outfit! Off-the-shoulder tops and blouses are no exception to this rule; in fact, they are ideal for emphasising your waist while complementing your body shape, whether you're wearing high-waisted or mid-rise jeans, fitted or relaxed.

🎨 To beautifully contrast the blue of your jeans, you can wear a top in bright and vibrant colours, or opt for white. Feel free to go for unique pieces too, with lace, pearls, lovely buttons, sheer effects, and embroidery…

With a High-Waisted Skirt for a Chic and Sophisticated Outfit

Are you looking for a smart outfit for a special occasion or a demanding work situation? If so, you can easily pair a simple yet sophisticated bardot top with a plain, high-waisted pencil skirt. This combination works wonderfully, as the fitted cut of the skirt contrasts beautifully with the flowy and loose style of the bardot neckline.

For this type of outfit, you can wear luxurious, silky fabrics, which will add a touch of softness to the overall look. A lovely pair of heels will be the perfect finishing touch for your ensemble!

👉 If you want to achieve a lovely silhouette, you might consider wearing shapewear, such as high-waisted panties or even a full body suit, underneath this outfit.

Showcase Your Bare Shoulders with Jewelry

Now that you're more familiar with the various style options available with an off-the-shoulder top or dress, let’s explore how to accessorise this type of outfit.

With this type of collar that draws attention to your shoulders, neck, and face, jewellery is an ideal way to express who you really are and to add some brightness to your outfit.

A gold or silver necklace will tend to minimize the appearance of your shoulders and should be fully visible at all times.

You can also choose statement earrings, which will always complement the colours of your outfit.

👉 You may have noticed in the photos accompanying this article that the bra straps on the models are never visible when wearing this type of top. This is because it completely disrupts the off-shoulder effect and the distinctive cut of these garments. Therefore, I recommend opting for a bustier bra or invisible straps to wear with a bardot neckline! 😉

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

Not quite convinced that a Bardot collar suits you? In that case, you might also consider wearing a top or dress with a bustier. Contrary to what one might think, this style works perfectly for those with a smaller bust and actually highlights their waist. In this case, simply opt for a straight-cut bustier. On the other hand, if you have a fuller bust, I recommend a heart-shaped bustier to accentuate your lovely curves.

Congratulations, you've now become an expert on the Bardot collar and I hope this article has helped you incorporate it into your wardrobe! If you'd like, feel free to check out our boutique, which offers many styles of bohemian clothing with off-the-shoulder designs!

🧵 Do you enjoy sewing? If so, why not have a go at making your own off-the-shoulder top by following the tips shared in this video: