What’s a jewel neck?

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The jewel neckline is a basic neckline that sits above the clavicle, often used to display jewelry. It is similar to a boat neck but covers the clavicle, and is often seen in workout clothing. It can be paired with layered garments and is popular in modest wedding dresses. Audrey Hepburn and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis were fans.

A jewel neckline is a simple, basic neckline that rounds out and hits just above the clavicle. It was named for its ability to display a piece of jewelry such as a pendant or brooch against fabric, so that the eye is drawn upwards toward the jewelry and face. This cut is featured on a wide variety of garments for both men and women, including t-shirts, sweaters, and dresses. Jewel necks are also particularly common in workout clothing, often appearing on suits, cycling shirts, and muscle shirts.

A jewel neckline is very similar to a boat neck or bateau neckline, which is another modest scoop neckline but doesn’t cover the clavicle. The boat neck got its name from sailors’ uniforms and other nautical outfits that have the same neckline. Jewel necks are also sometimes confused with crew necks, which drape above the clavicle and are edged with an additional band of fabric or collar.

Another, more revealing take on jewel necks are scoop necks, which follow the same curved line as jewel and boat necklines, but then plunge into a dramatic plunge just above the neckline. Sleeveless, jewel-necked shirts and dresses draw attention to the arms and are especially flattering on body types with toned arms. A top or dress with this type of cut looks best with another layered garment, such as a cardigan or jacket to add some texture to a flat neckline. Jewel neck tops are also a good choice to pair with short skirts or shorts, as they balance the outfit and prevent it from looking skimpy or overly revealing.

The jewel neckline is one of the most popular necklines featured in “modest wedding dresses” worn by church- or temple-married brides with certain dress codes that require a high neckline. This design was also popularized by style icon, Audrey Hepburn, who favored the neckline for its ability to cover her collarbone, which she was well aware of. The jewel neck was also favored by another 1960s style icon, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who often wore form-fitting dresses and cardigan ensembles that featured cleavage along with a pearl necklace to accentuate it.




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