Are bateau neckline wedding dresses popular?

Bateau necklines are one of the rarer choices for brides but have gained popularity since Meghan Markle’s 2018 wedding. Also called a boat neck, the look has now been associated with sophistication and regalness—two style attributes many brides gravitate towards for their special day.

How do I accessorize my bateau neckline wedding dress?

Since many bateau necklines fall across the chest and collarbones, it’s best to forego a necklace and instead, accessorize with bold bracelets or statement hairpieces. This will allow the clean lines of the gown to be front and center.

What season are bateau necklines best for?

While bateau neckline gowns can work for any season, it’s important to pay attention to the sleeve length and fabric. In a nod to Meghan Markle’s gown, many current bateau gowns boast long sleeves which work best for cooler seasons. Luckily, there are styles with shorter sleeves, so don’t get discouraged if you haven’t yet found what you’re looking for.

22 Best Bateau Neckline Wedding Dresses of 2023

When it comes to selecting your wedding dress, finding a look that speaks to your personal style is of the utmost importance. And while there are a lot of different options to choose from, one bridal look that’s been gaining popularity is the classy bateau neck gown. You may remember this silhouette worn by Meghan Markle, who famously rocked the neckline at her 2018 royal wedding to Prince Harry. Markle’s history-making Givenchy ceremony dress boasted ¾ sleeves, soft silk fabric, and most notably, a sophisticated boat neckline.

What is a Bateau Neckline?

Also called a boat neckline, a bateau neck is a straight neckline that stretches across the collarbone to each shoulder. It’s a wider version of a round neck, and the curvature of the silhouette can vary from minimal to dramatic.

The sleek neckline is more modest than a V-neck or sweetheart, and the style typically comes with sleeves which means more coverage. Even so, there's a bateau gown for nearly every bridal style. While the look wasn’t as popular a few years back, more and more brides are now opting for this silhouette due to its elegant and timeless aesthetic.

15 Wedding Dress Necklines to Know Before Dress Shopping

From Meghan Markle-inspired wedding dresses to unique looks boasting boat necks, check out 22 of our favorite bateau neckline gowns. Based on rave reviews and reputable sellers, we can’t get enough of these captivating day-of looks.

Best Royal Replica: Houghton Cheyne

bateau wedding dress — Courtesy of Houghton

Size: 0-30 | Materials: Silk Crepe | Length: Floor-length

The long sleeves and relaxed fit of this regal Houghton gown will make you feel like you’re stepping out of the palace, while the open back adds a bit of edginess that’ll set your look apart.

Price at time of publish: $2,450

For a Boho Wedding: BHLDN Ludlow Gown

Size: 00-26 | Materials: Polyester, lace | Length: Floor-length

Modern lace, a raw edge hem, and a sleek column silhouette were made for bohemian events or celebrations on sandy shores. Pair this look with an ivory veil and some greenery to really make the style pop.

Price at time of publish: $975

Most Flattering: Anne Barge Take A Bow

Size: 0-24 | Materials: Silk | Length: Floor-length

It’s not too often you get two flattering necklines in one, but this Anne Barge gown does just that—combining a V-neck and a bateau. The daring neckline coupled with a fit-and-flare silhouette and floral appliques will make anyone feel their best on the big day.

Price at time of publish: $2,410

For a Warm Weather Wedding: Essence Of Australia Crepe Wedding Gown With Lace Embellishments

Size: Made-to-order | Materials: Crepe, lace | Length: Floor-length

Sleek and simple, but still seriously elevated, this comfortable Essence of Australia gown is a dream for warmer weather nuptials.

Most Versatile: Amsale Lakin

Size: Made-to-order | Materials: Organza | Length: Floor-length

Get two looks in one with Amsale’s organza ball gown. The embroidered gown features a strapless corset and removable, bateau neckline overlay. Remove the cap-sleeved cover after the ceremony for a stunning second look.

Price at time of publish: $5,200

Best All-Over Lace: Rue de Seine Eden

Size: UK6-UK20 | Materials: Rococo embroidery | Length: Floor-length

Allover lace embellishments have us swooning over this long sleeve Rue de Seine gown. The high boat neck compliments the collarbones, while the deep back keeps the look from feeling too covered up. Select the gown in the “sienna” hue to highlight the lace.

Best A-line Silhouette: Moonlight Bridal Temple Ready Crepe A-Line Bridal Gown with Short Flutter Sleeves

Size: 2-28 | Materials: Crepe back satin | Length: Floor-length

The pockets, a beaded pearl belt, button back, and flutter sleeves of this Moonlight Bridal gown make it both modest and sophisticated. The bateau neckline flatters while the flowy, A-line silhouette gives you that special bridal touch.

For the Elegant Bride: Tadashi Shoji Maven Gown

Size: 00-18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

It truly doesn’t get more elegant than Tadashi Shoji’s Maven bridal gown. The clean silhouette, chic boat neck, and long sleeves exude class, while the draped open back adds an unexpected yet elevated finishing touch.

For Drama-Loving Brides: Hayley Paige Dori

Size: Made-to-order | Materials: Tulle | Length: Floor-length

Brides who were born to stand out need a gown like Hayley Paige’s Dori for their big day. The bateau neckline, crystal bodice, horsehair flounced skirt, and chapel train create a wow-worthy effect. Compliment this look with a matching flower girl dress for a cohesive day-of aesthetic.

Most Unique Neckline: Pronovias Clarence

Size: Made-to-order | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length

Sweetheart meets bateau in this unique Pronovias gown. The tattoo-style lace creates a commanding look that, when paired with the chapel train and mermaid silhouette, seamlessly marries classic and contemporary.

For the Classic Bride: Azazie Hennessy BG

Size: 0-30 or custom | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length

With a subtle mermaid silhouette, skillfully placed lace detailing, and a button back, Azazie’s Hennessy is a dream dress for any bride opting for a classic day-of celebration. Highlight the look with some dangle earrings and sparkling shoes to pull the whole ensemble together.

Price at time of publish: $399

For a Courthouse Wedding: Adrianna Papell Sleeveless Mikado Fit & Flare Midi Dress

Size: 0-20 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

While courthouse celebrations typically call for shorter hemlines, this sleeveless, structured midi from Adrianna Papell still embodies the style of a full-length gown. Add in some bold accessories and an edgy jacket for a look as unique as your love story.

Price at time of publish: $160

For the Sexy Bride: Pronovias Morgan

Size: UK2-34 | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length

A sexy style with a bateau neckline is not only possible, but it’s a must-have. The long sleeves and mermaid silhouette of this gown are complemented by a beaded, fluid insert that teases a sheer sultriness.

Favorite Floral Embellishments: Ines Di Santo Elisabetta

Size: Made-to-order | Length: Floor-length

The all-over 3D floral embellishments of this Ines Di Santo gown have us dreaming of garden weddings and springtime events. Pair the dazzling sheath dress with the detachable overskirt for a look as bold as the blooms.

Best Mermaid: Moonlight Bridal STYLE J6791

Size: 2-28 | Materials: Crepe back satin | Length: Floor-length

From the front, this exquisite Moonlight Bridal number may look simple, but it’s the back details that make this frock truly stand out. With an illusion panel, trail of buttons, and cowl back, this sleek gown surprises in all the best ways.

For the Contemporary Bride: Allure Bridals Meghan

Size: 0-30 | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length

Cap sleeves and a cheeky bow create both a modern and timeless look, as illustrated on this gown by Allure Bridals. While the front of the gown is clean and contemporary, the playful back—which features a row of floating buttons—adds the perfect touch of pizazz.

For the Vintage Bride: Azazie Lark BG

Size: 0-30 | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Midi

Calling all vintage lovers! The full chiffon skirt and heirloom style lace bodice of this midi gown makes us feel like we’ve gone back in time in all the best ways. Throw on your best dancing shoes and swing dance the night away.

For the Modern Bride: Atelier Pronovias Ferri

Size: Made-to-order | Materials: Jersey | Length: Floor-length

Make a statement with Pronovas’s Ferri gown. The draped jersey fabric, keyhole detail, and pearl embellishments on the structured shoulders were made for a confident bride who marches to her own beat. Wear your hair back to really let the gown take front and center.

Best Budget Replica: Allure Bridals Style 3401

Size: 0-30 | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length

A royal look on a budget is possible with this statuesque ivory frock from Allure Bridals. The ¾ sleeves and high boat neck are balanced by a figure-skimming column silhouette and cutout back.

For the Whimsical Bride: Pronovias Privée Kent

Size: Made-to-order | Materials: Glitter tulle | Length: Floor-length

Two necklines come together to create a whimsical look unlike any other. Light as air tulle, flecked with snow-like embroidery, cover the entirety of this evasée gown creating a dream-life effect straight out of your fairytale visions.

Best Beadwork: BHLDN Lucia Gown

Size: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester, beading | Length: Floor-length

The chic column silhouette and demure bateau neckline of BHLDN’s Lucia are taken to the next level by beautiful allover floral beadwork. Carry some bright blooms to complement the fun floral frock.

Most Regal: Grace + Ivory AdeOla

Size: Custom sizing | Materials: Taiwanese crepe, beading, net | Length: Floor-length

Posh, polished, and positively radiant are just a few ways you’ll feel when you wear Grace + Ivory’s AdeOla. On its own, the sleeveless, crepe gown is a stunner, but when you add in the optional cape, you’ll officially be castle-ready.

Price at time of publish: $1,795

FAQ

Are bateau neckline wedding dresses popular?

Bateau necklines are one of the rarer choices for brides but have gained popularity since Meghan Markle’s 2018 wedding. Also called a boat neck, the look has now been associated with sophistication and regalness—two style attributes many brides gravitate towards for their special day.
How do I accessorize my bateau neckline wedding dress?

Since many bateau necklines fall across the chest and collarbones, it’s best to forego a necklace and instead, accessorize with bold bracelets or statement hairpieces. This will allow the clean lines of the gown to be front and center.
What season are bateau necklines best for?

While bateau neckline gowns can work for any season, it’s important to pay attention to the sleeve length and fabric. In a nod to Meghan Markle’s gown, many current bateau gowns boast long sleeves which work best for cooler seasons. Luckily, there are styles with shorter sleeves, so don’t get discouraged if you haven’t yet found what you’re looking for.

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About the Author

Rachel Varina is a social media, digital marketing, and editorial expert with over seven years of professional writing experience. Her work has appeared on sites such as Betches and Elite Daily.

22 Bateau Neckline Wedding Dresses for a Sophisticated Celebration