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16 Dreamy Boatneck Wedding Dresses

Call it the Dutchess effect, but we must admit: We’re looking at boatneck wedding gowns with a new sense of splendor. And really, why shouldn’t we? The classic cut is universally flattering and—dare we say?—regal. From mermaid cuts to silky separates, these bateau (that’s the fancy, French name) neck getups are making us want to plan a wedding and show off some collarbone.

All the Fancy Bridal Terms You Should know Before You Go Shopping


boatneck wedding gown 13
Courtesy of Floravere

Thick Satin

Sweet cap sleeves + double -aced matte satin = swoon. 

Floravere ($1,475)

boatneck wedding gown 16
Courtesy of Atelier Pronovias

Embroidered Crepe

We love how the skin-tight mermaid silhouette sexies up the demure neckline. 

Atelier Pronovias (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 17

Modest With A Twist

YAS to these double slits and buttoned sleeves. 

Lili Hod Dreams (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 4
Courtesy of M’oda Operandi

Embroidered Lace

If Kate’s gown and Meghan’s gown had a baby, it would be this exquisite number.  

Isabelle Armstrong ($11,995)

boatneck wedding gown 12
Courtesy of Catherine Dean

Slinky Separates

For the bride who prioritizes comfort. (And cool girl cred.)

Catherine Dean top ($310) and trousers ($760)

boatneck wedding gown 10
Courtesy of Maggie Sottero

Epaulettes

Let your shoulders do the talking.  

Maggie Sottero (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 6
Courtesy of Rebecca Schoneveld

Lace Topper

Pop this lovely overlay on your strappy gown for the ceremony—then lose it for the afterparty.  

Rebecca Schoneveld (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 14
Courtesy of BHLDN

Short-sleeved And Belted

Our hunch: This gown will look just as chic and au courant when you look at your wedding pics 20 years down the road.  

BHLDN ($1,200)

boatneck wedding gown 9
Courtesy of Roland Mouret

Asymmetrical Details

This sleek gown boasts an impeccable fit and groovy directional seams and zippers. Très modern.

Roland Mouret ($2,600 euro)

boatneck wedding gown 7
Courtesy of Maggie Sottero

Lacy Detailing

When you want ornate...but also fresh and modern.

Maggie Sottero (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 8
Courtesy of David’s Bridal

Sequined Sheath

Major Great Gatsby vibes.

David’s Bridal ($1,158)

boatneck wedding gown 1
Courtesy of Net A Porter

Peekaboo Lace

We love a dress with a few surprises (see: the retro buttons; the lacy peek-through on the skirt).

Rime Arodaky ($3,600)

boatneck wedding gown 2

Crisp And Fitted

And wait ’til you see the fab cutout in the back.  

Rosa Clara ($1,775)

boatneck wedding gown 5
Courtesy of Elie Saab

Cinched And Beaded

We’re swooning for the asymmetrical beaded portion up top.   

Elie Saab (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 3
Courtesy of Rita Vinieris

Strappy Satin

How ladylike and elegant is this pearly satin + petite bow combo? 

Alyne By Rita Vinieris (upon inquiry)

boatneck wedding gown 11
Courtesy of Bloomingdales

Cropped Crepe

Psst: Boatneck works for your elopement/city hall union/bridal shower, too.



grace1

Home Editor

From 2014-2019 Grace Beuley Hunt held the role of Home Editor covering interior design, styling, trends and more.

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