How to Wear a Bardot Neckline Top or Dress?

Do you have a top or a dress with cold shoulders, but you're wondering how to incorporate it into your wardrobe? Are you curious to know if a 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 unique garment cuts make a comeback. This is especially true for the Bardot neckline, which exposes your shoulders and enhances your décolletage!

Today, I’m bringing you a comprehensive guide on the topic, packed with plenty of tips on how to wear it and many 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 broader shoulders might prefer an asymmetric neckline instead. Highly versatile, the Bardot neckline works well with both chic bohemian outfits, flowing and feminine, and a dressier style when paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt. Finally, I highly recommend accessorising with necklaces and earrings when wearing an off-the-shoulder top or dress to enhance your décolletage!

Want to find out more? Keep reading to discover:

• 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,
• ... Plus numerous bohemian, classic, and chic outfit ideas featuring off-the-shoulder styles!

Where Did 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 icon of the sixties was the muse for many great artists of the time and a fashion figure, remaining well-known for her beauty, which made her incredibly photogenic.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Brigitte Bardot became a true icon for women of the time. The outfits she wore during her public appearances were quickly bought and worn in the same way. You could say she was an influencer long before the days of the internet and social media.

This is how the Bardot neckline, characterised by its off-the-shoulder design, became hugely popular in the 70s, a time that was also known for the hippie movement. This is why this style of cut is now seen as typical of the bohemian style.

What body shape is highlighted by this type of top?

This type of collar, which is very feminine, is perfect for sunny days and pairs easily with many 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 more curvy, tall or short. However, if you have broad shoulders, this style may emphasise them a bit too much and might not be the best choice for you. In that case, I would recommend an asymmetrical neckline, which reveals one shoulder. The diagonal line of this cut will help to visually reduce your shoulder width.

👉 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 season and help to create a flattering silhouette.

A light 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 perfect for you. It’s incredibly lightweight, accentuates your neckline, and is great for getting the perfect tan!

Depending on your body shape, I would 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 such as 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 Chic Bohemian Style

As we mentioned earlier in this article, the Bardot neckline is iconic of the boho-chic style. This fashion trend is characterised by light, flowing, and comfortable clothing, allowing for great freedom of movement. But that’s not all: it also includes feminine dresses and tops, featuring delicate elements that enhance your silhouette. Details like lace inserts, ruffles, floral patterns, and balloon sleeves are all accents that will flatter you and make you feel beautiful in your clothes.

👉 Are you intrigued by bohemian fashion? Does it align with your taste? Come check out 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, the perfect combination for a casual and feminine outfit

Do you love wearing jeans for comfort? If so, you probably know that a smartly designed and stylish top is the perfect companion to add a touch of uniqueness 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 figure, especially when paired with high-waisted or mid-rise jeans, whether they are fitted or not.

🎨 To beautifully contrast the blue of your jeans, you can wear a top in vibrant and bright colours, or even white. Don’t hesitate to choose unique clothing that features lace, beads, pretty buttons, transparent effects, or 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? In that case, you can definitely pair a simple yet sophisticated bardot neckline top with a plain, high-waisted pencil skirt. This combination works wonderfully, as the fitted cut of the skirt contrasts beautifully with the flowing and roomy style of the bardot neckline.

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

👉 If you want to achieve a lovely figure, you might consider wearing shapewear or high-waisted underwear beneath this outfit, or even opting for a full bodysuit.

Showcase Your Bare Shoulders with Jewellery

Now that you have a better understanding of the various styling options available with an off-the-shoulder top or dress, I would 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 express who you really are and add a touch of brightness to your outfit.

A gold or silver necklace will help to create the illusion of narrower shoulders and should be fully visible at all times.

You can also choose statement earrings, always in line with the colours of your outfit.

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

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

Not quite convinced that a Bardot neckline is for you? In that case, you might also consider wearing a top or dress with a bustier. Contrary to what you might think, this style is actually quite flattering for people with a smaller bust and accentuates their waist. Just opt for a straight-cut bustier. On the other hand, if you have a fuller bust, I recommend a heart-shaped bustier to enhance your lovely curves.

Congratulations, you've become an expert in Bardot collars! I hope this article has helped you incorporate it into your wardrobe! Feel free to check out our shop, where you can find many bohemian clothing options with exposed shoulders!

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