According to Wikipedia, a boat neck is also called a bateau neck or Sabrina neckline. It is a wide neckline that runs horizontally, front and back, almost to the shoulders and across the collarbone. It is traditionally used in nautically inspired knitwear but is also featured in more elegant cocktail boat neck dress and eveningwear.
The style of wearing this type of neckline derives from sailors’ blouses or sweaters, often with wide navy and white horizontal stripes. The wide, plain neck was practical in case of quick removal if a sailor were to fall overboard.
Today, we will see how this neckline finds its way into fashion. Boat neck dress, along with sweater is one of the most popular staples that have this kind of neckline. It is a perfect opportunity for you to see how to style this dress to be a casual or elegant staple.
Scroll down to see what I have prepared for you.
White Summer Dress
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You can as well as Olivia Palermo hit the streets of your city with a dog or alone wearing this lovely white boat neck dress.
She manages to style this lovely white piece with strappy sandals, just a few accessories and to look absolutely fantastic. You can recreate this look very easy. Put a belt around your waist, choose interesting high heel sandals, and you are ready to go!
Navy-Blue Maxi Dress
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Every girl needs one casual maxi dress in her wardrobe. It will be your savior on many different occasions when you don’t really feel like dressing elegantly.
With just a few details, this dress can turn out into nice, flattering dress. Add a gold necklace and bunch of rings, and you will have an entirely new look.
When it comes to shoes, you can choose flats, as well as heels. Choose your show wear based on the events you are planning to go.
Open Back Dress
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I love dresses that have interesting cut. They are always your ace in the hole when you need a wonderful and exciting outfit.
The front side is very classic; the straight cut is always a great idea. You can wear this outfit for many different occasions. The black color is very versatile, and you can style it with white pointy-toe stilettos.
This outfit is a great option for late night dinners or cocktail drink in some fancy city restaurant.
Embroidered Sheer Boat Neck Dress
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Embroidery took hearts of many girls (count me there). It appeared on skirts, jeans, jackets, and dresses. Almost everywhere! It was also a big part of accessories – bags, shoes, and caps.
However, this dress is a mix of different materials and prints. As you can see, there is polka dot print along with white embroidered flowers. Also, the bodice is made of sheer material, which is very modern.
You can style this dress for different kind of occasions. However, keep it for elegant and formal events only.
Polka Dot Dress
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Now that I have mentioned polka dot print let’s see one lovely dress that is made completely of this print.
If you didn’t know, this print is coming back through the big door. So, now it is the right time to purchase one boat neck dress that has this lovely retro print.
You can style it with navy-blue flats, or you can opt for high heel sandals that are lace-up.
Emerald Green Dress
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If you are not that into prints, don’t worry. I have something very sophisticated for you.
This lovely silk dress is great for many occasions. One thing’s sure; you will feel extremely comfortable in it. This model is great for working hours. It looks very glamorous, even though it is very simple.
Style this dress with strappy high heel sandals.
White Stripes
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This is a perfect white summer dress. It can be your best friend in many situations when you want to look nice but effortless.
This dress is lovely and very flattering. The sleeves have nice tie-detail that looks very chic and interesting. You can style this dress for everyday wear, or mix it with some elegant details for elegant events.
Ladylike Black Boat Neck Dress
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Boat neckline was originally in elegant and retro dresses. Then, it found its way to modern shirts and dresses. Olivia Palermo loves that retro style. She wears this lovely black dress with boat neckline, combined with simple yet classy stilettos.
You can wear this dress for elegant occasions like weddings, birthdays, or Christmas dinners.
Sweater Dress (Bodycon)
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Is there anything better than a sweater bodycon dress on cold winter days? No, if you ask for my opinion. I have a friend that is a big fan of dresses generally, so even on the cold winter days she was wearing them. This can be a great choice for her.
This lovely boat neck dress is striped and knitted. It is very warm and flattering. You can mix it with thigh-high boots or ankle ones. Also, when spring comes, you can wear it with flats.
Blue Striped Summer Dress
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If you are looking for a perfect maxi dress that you can wear it by the beach, here is the great one.
This lovely baby blue striped dress is great for your vacation by the sea. You can style it with strappy sandals and straw or fishnet bag for a super trendy summer look.
Colorful Boat Neck Dress
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I don’t know about you, but I am a huge fan of colors. However, it is not always easy to find something that is great enough like this dress. Lovely mix of colors and comfortable boat neckline are two most powerful features that describe this dress.
You can wear it as an everyday dress, or style it for elegant occasions.
Red Boat Neck Dress
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Classy and elegant, this dress is ideal for workwear. It has short sleeves and midi length. It is very sophisticated and glamorous. You can style it with pointy toe patent leather heels and add tote or crossbody bag.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this style guide. Make sure to read all other outfit posts that we have prepared for you.
