How to Style a Bardot Top or Dress?

You have a top or a dress with off-the-shoulder style, but you’re wondering how to incorporate it into your wardrobe? Are you curious to know if the Bardot neckline, which exposes the shoulders, suits your body shape?

You've come to the right place.

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

Today, I'm sharing a comprehensive guide on this topic, filled with tips on how to wear it and plenty of inspiring outfit examples.

Popularised by Brigitte Bardot, the iconic actress and model from the 1960s, the Bardot neckline is perfect for summer days. It suits most body types, although those with broader shoulders might prefer an asymmetrical neckline instead. Highly versatile, the Bardot neckline works well with both bohemian chic outfits that are flowy and feminine, as well as more formal looks when paired with a high-waisted pencil skirt. Lastly, I highly recommend wearing necklaces and earrings with an off-the-shoulder top or dress to accentuate your neckline!

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 collar suits your body shape,
  • How to wear it, whether as a dress or a top,
  • Tips to enhance your décolletage,
  • ... And plenty of bohemian, classic, and chic outfit ideas featuring off-the-shoulder styles!

Where Did the Bardot Collar Come From?

You might be 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 comes from Brigitte Bardot, who popularised this type of neckline. This sixties icon was a muse for many great artists of that era and a fashion figure, known for her stunning beauty that made her very photogenic.

Brigitte Bardot BB Col Bardot

In the 60s and 70s, Brigitte Bardot became a true icon for women of her time. The outfits she wore during her public appearances were instantly bought and copied by many. One could say she was an influencer, long before the days of the internet and social media.

This is how the Bardot neckline, known for its off-the-shoulder design, gained immense popularity in the 70s, a time also associated with the hippie movement, which is why this kind of cut is now considered typical of the bohemian style.

Which body type is accentuated by this style of top?

This type of collar is very feminine and is perfect for sunny days, easily matching with many outfits. However, one might wonder if this original cut will flatter our body shape. Indeed, it draws attention to the shoulders, neck, and neckline.

Exposed Shoulders: Which Body Type?

The answer to this question is actually quite simple: the Bardot neckline suits most body shapes, whether you are slim or on the curvier side, tall or petite. However, if you have broader shoulders, this style may accentuate them a bit too much and might not be the best choice for you. In that case, I would recommend an asymmetrical neckline, which will reveal one of your shoulders. The diagonal line of this cut will help create an optical illusion that balances your shoulder width.

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

A light off-shoulder dress, perfect for summer

Are you looking for a light and feminine outfit to beat the summer heat? An off-shoulder dress is the perfect choice. It's super light, accentuates your neckline, and helps you achieve that 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.

off-shoulder summer dress

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

Exposed Shoulders: An Iconic Detail of Bohemian Chic Style

As 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, giving you a great sense of freedom of movement. But that’s not all: it also includes feminine dresses and tops, adorned with delicate elements that flatter your figure. Lace inserts, ruffles, floral patterns, and balloon sleeves are just a few details that enhance your look and make you feel beautiful in your outfits.

Bardot neckline bohemian top with off-shoulder design

👉 Are you interested in bohemian fashion? Does it align with your style? Join us now at our online store to explore our collection of dresses, tops, and other unique, well-tailored bohemian clothing!

A bardot 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 stylish and well-fitted top is the perfect companion to add a touch of flair to your outfit! Off-shoulder tops and blouses are no exception to this rule; in fact, they are ideal for highlighting your waist and enhancing the proportions of your figure when paired with high-waisted or mid-rise jeans, whether they’re fitted or loose.

off-the-shoulder jean top

🎨 To beautifully contrast the blue of your jeans, you can wear a top in bright and vibrant colours, or even in white. Feel free to wear unique outfits with lace, pearls, pretty buttons, sheer effects, or embroidery...

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

Are you looking for a dressed-up outfit for a special occasion or a demanding professional situation? If so, you can perfectly pair a simple yet sophisticated off-the-shoulder top with a solid-coloured, high-waisted pencil skirt. This combination works really well, as the fitted cut of the skirt contrasts nicely with the flowy and loose neckline of the off-the-shoulder top.

chic outfit with Bardot neckline and off-shoulder design, high-waisted skirt

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

👉 If you want to achieve a lovely silhouette, you can wear shapewear and sculpting underwear underneath this outfit, ideally high-waisted or even in the form of a full bodysuit.

Show Off Your Bare Shoulders with Jewelry

Now that you have a better understanding of the different styling options available with an off-shoulder top or dress, let’s explore how to accessorise this type of outfit.

With this kind of collar that draws attention to your shoulders, neck, and face, jewelry is the perfect way to express your true self and add a touch of brightness to your outfit.

jewellery to highlight shoulders and neckline

A gold or silver necklace will help to give the impression of narrower shoulders and should definitely be fully visible.

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

👉 You might have noticed in the photos accompanying this article that you never see the bra straps of the models 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 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 collar is for you? If so, you might want to consider wearing a top or a dress with a bustier. Contrary to popular belief, this style is quite flattering for those with a smaller bust and actually accentuates their waist. In this case, 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.

strapless heart-shaped dress

You are now an expert in Bardot collars, and I hope this article has helped you incorporate it into your wardrobe! Feel free, if you'd like, to check out our boutique, where you'll find many bohemian clothing styles with bare shoulders!

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

Need some inspiration? Find out how to style Bardot neckline tops and dresses with ease. Check Out Our Outfit Ideas