A neckline is the edge of a shirt, dress, or other piece of clothing where it meets your neck and chest. Different necklines have different shapes and styles. A crew neck sits right at the base of your neck in a simple circle, like most t-shirts. A V-neck dips down in a V-shape. A turtleneck comes up high and folds over to cover part of your neck, keeping you warm in winter.

The neckline affects both how a piece of clothing looks and how comfortable it feels. Some necklines are practical: a high neckline keeps you warmer, while a wider neckline helps you stay cooler. Others are chosen purely for style. Fashion designers pay close attention to necklines because changing just this one detail can make the same basic dress or shirt look completely different.

You might hear someone say that a shirt has a flattering neckline or that they prefer certain necklines over others. That's because different neckline shapes suit different people, outfits, and occasions. A formal dress might have an elegant scoop neck or boat neck, while your favorite hoodie probably has a relaxed, comfortable neckline perfect for everyday wear.