What’s the difference between mock neck and high neck wedding dresses?

Mock neck and high-neck wedding dresses are similar, but not quite the same. Mock neck wedding dresses have a high neckline but don't usually cover the entire neckline (they also have a collar that resembles a turtleneck). High-neck wedding dresses cover the entire neckline.

Are mock neck wedding dresses for the traditional bride?

Yes, but they’re also for every bridal style! While the modest nature of a mock neck can be seen as more traditional, there are plenty of modern options for brides who want an unconventional wedding gown. Brands like Danielle Frankel, Houghton, Galvan, and Odylyne the Ceremony are good places to shop for this kind of styling.

How do you style a mock neck wedding dress?

If you’re looking to show off the collar of your mock neck wedding dress, a slicked-back or wavy updo can let your neckline really shine. Also, consider a pair of drop or statement earrings for a fun touch that draws the eyes down to the neckline of your gown.

26 Best Mock Neck Wedding Dresses of 2023

bride wearing an embellished long sleeve mock neck wedding dress — Photo by Olivia Leigh Photographie

Mock neck wedding dresses are a royally-inspired silhouette that has been around for ages. Fitting for a classic bridal style, this popular neckline gained more traction during Spring 2023 Bridal Fashion Week. Designers like Ines Di Santo, Viktor & Rolf, and Anne Barge all featured mock neck gowns in their newest bridal collections. And while the mock neck can be considered a modest style choice, the resurgence of this regal neckline is a bit more contemporary and is now being paired with everything from fun after-party dresses to traditional ballgowns.

What is a Mock Neck?

A mock neck is a mid to high neckline that features a collar, similar to a turtleneck, but often has a looser fit and isn’t folded down.

In addition to being a runway staple, mock neck wedding dresses are also popular with both celebrities and royals—with Meghan Markle, Paris Hilton, Ellie Goulding, and Lady Kitty Spencer all sporting this silhouette on their big days. What's more, brands like Galvan, Danielle Frankel, and Houghton are making a case for this style to become a fresh and modern option for second bridal looks.

How to Choose Your Dream Wedding Dress: 70 Things to Know

If you’re considering a mock neck dress for your wedding, scroll on for a selection of 26 gorgeous gowns for every style and budget.

Best Lace: Watters Ruby Gown

Long fitted sleeve, high neck lace wedding dress — Courtesy of Watters

Size: 00-24W | Length: Floor | Materials: Lace, tulle, and charmeuse

It's lace on lace on lace for this fitted gown from Watters. The long sleeves and fluted skirt create an effortlessly timeless look that is still fit for a modern bride.

Best Pleated Dress: Odylyne the Ceremony Cassiel Gown

high neck, long sleeve wedding dress — Courtesy of Odylyne the Ceremony

Size: 2-20 | Length: Floor | Fabric: Silk organza

This organza masterpiece is made even more stylish with the pleated detailing that makes up the entire gown. Style with statement earrings and a sleek updo to amplify the drama of the high neckline.

Price at time of publish: $2,650

Best Slip Dress: Danielle Frankel Sasha Gown

high neck halter silk satin gown — Courtesy of Danielle Frankel

Size: S-L | Length: Floor | Materials: Satin and silk crepe

Danielle Frankel is known for their slinky slip dresses, and this satin handkerchief gown is a gorgeous example! With covered buttons at the hip, front, and back slits, this slip dress is the perfect choice for a sultry second bridal look.

Price at time of publish: $3,490

Best Illusion Sleeve: Anne Barge Balboa Dress

Stretch crepe column gown with a high neck — Courtesy of Anne Barge

Size: 0-22 and 16SP-24SP | Length: Floor | Materials: Crepe, illusion tulle, and silk organza

For a classic bridal style, we suggest this sophisticated column gown from Anne Barge. The illusion neckline and sleeves add a modern element to this traditional silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $2,190

For the Minimalist Bride: Galvan Sienna Gown

crepe halterneck gown — Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

Size: 0-12 | Length: Floor | Materials: Crepe and silk

Reminiscent of the dress the Duchess of Sussex wore to her reception, consider this simple gown for an elegant and polished look. The flattering slim fit and sleeveless silhouette will allow you to dance freely all night long.

Price at time of publish: $2,095

Best Statement Sleeve: Amsale Kier Gown

high neck gown with sheer tulle sleeve — Courtesy of Amsale

Size: Contact brand | Length: Floor | Materials: Crepe and tulle

This crepe gown from Amsale is anything but understated. The sheer puff sleeves with floral detailing, open back, and button trail down the skirt immediately catch the eye for an elegantly bold bridal look.

Price at time of publish: $4,850

Best Crochet: Self-Portrait Pleated Crochet Floral Maxi Dress

long sleeve high neck lace gown — Courtesy of Self-Portrait

Size: 0-12 | Length: Floor | Materials: Lace and crepe

If you've been loving the crochet trend predicted to take over in summer, consider this crochet gown from Self-Portrait. The form-fitting top is made of floral lace that flows into a pleated skirt, for a dress that is timeless and on-trend.

Price at time of publish: $510

Best Ballgown: Amsale Saida Gown

high-waisted ballgown with long sleeves and a high neck — Courtesy of Amsale

Size: Contact brand | Length: Floor | Materials: Lace and silk wool

Polished and chic, this ballgown from Amsale is fit for a princess. The high-waisted silk skirt and lace bodice give the dress an elegant flair for a bride who wants to keep it classic and minimal.

Price at time of publish: $6,995

Most Embellished: Watters Frances Gown

long sleeve and high neck lace and sequins wedding gown — Courtesy of Watters

Size: 00-24W | Length: Floor | Materials: Lace and charmeuse

With layers of lace and hand-sewn beading, this gown from Watters is ideal for the fashion-forward bride. Taking on another bridal trend—the fully sheer wedding gown—you have the option to wear or remove the provided slip.

Price at time of publish: $3,418

Best Corset: Hermione de Paula Hand Pleated Rosewater Tulle Bustier Gown

Tulle Bustier wedding Gown With Embroidered Wisteria and high neck — Courtesy of Hermione de Paula

Size: UK 6-20 | Length: Floor | Materials: Tulle

This avant-garde gown meshes together multiple trends—corsets, floral motifs, and mock necks—for a stunning result. Complete with pleated tulle and pink accents, this bustier number is perfect for a whimsical bridal look.

Best Cut-Out: Galia Lahav Adi Gown

sexy cut out long sleeve wedding dress with a high neck — Courtesy of Galia Lahav

Size: Contact brand | Length: Floor | Materials: Crepe

Fit for the daring bride, this cut-out gown from Galia Lahav was made to stand out. From the illusion mock neck to the pointed cuff sleeves and open back, this clean-cut dress makes a clear fashion statement.

Best Mini: Odylyne the Ceremony Celeste Dress

mini wedding dress with a high neck, dramatic shoulders, and open sides — Courtesy of Odylyne the Ceremony

Size: 2-20 | Length: Mini | Fabric: Organza and silk

Looking for a non-traditional bridal look? This mini dress from Odylyne the Ceremony is a great option. With billowing ruffles and a dramatic mock neck, it's a stylish choice for a trendy bride.

Price at time of publish: $1,250

For a Courthouse Wedding: Reformation Dusk Dress

high neck short sleeve tea length wedding dress — Courtesy of Reformation

Size: 0-12 | Length: Midi | Materials: Crepe

For a courthouse wedding, we suggest this sleek midi dress from Reformation. It features subtle puff sleeves and an open back for a sophisticated look.

Price at time of publish: $278

Best Open-Back: Galvan Athena Mock-Neck Beaded Open-Back Gown

open-back high neck long sleeve jersey maxi dress — Courtesy of Matches Fashion

Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor | Materials: Jersey

Take a spin in this column gown and you'll reveal the gorgeous open back. A dramatic touch that's made even more stylish with the pearls lining the edge.

Price at time of publish: $1,695

For the Glam Bride: Taller Marmo Casta Diva Feather-Trimmed Kaftan

High Neck Feather Trim Silk Kaftan — Courtesy of Browns Fashion

Size: 2-10 | Length: Floor | Materials: Silk

This Taller Marmo feather kaftan is giving off Old Hollywood glam and we're loving it! Style the look with retro waves and gold jewelry for a glamorous bridal look à la the 1920s.

Best Halter: Houghton Diane Gown

halter neck lace gown — Courtesy of Houghton

Size: 0-30 | Length: Floor | Materials: Chantilly lace and silk chiffon

We can't get over the beautiful cathedral train on this halter gown from Houghton. This silk garment also comes with a detachable lace flower you can attach to the mock neck for a romantic finishing touch.

Price at time of publish: $15,000

Best Trumpet Gown: Houghton Alexis Gown

French Chantilly lace high neck, long sleeve gown — Courtesy of Houghton

Size: 0-30 | Length: Floor | Materials: Chantilly lace

Take this luxurious trumpet gown to the next level with its detachable white and black floral appliqués. Rearrange them to your liking for a fun and fresh reception look.

Price at time of publish: $9,000

For the Boho Bride: Grace Loves Lace Eve Dress

long sleeve A-line wedding gown with a high neck — Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace

Size: XS-XL or made-to-order | Length: Floor | Fabric: Lace and tulle

If you're looking for a comfortable gown, consider this option from Grace Loves Lace. Made from stretch lace, you can move with ease all night long! Plus, they offer a customizable train so you can find a length that suits you.

Price at time of publish: $2,800

For the After-Party: Jenny Yoo Hart Dress

long sleeve high neck lace mini dress — Courtesy of Jenny Yoo

Size: 00-32 or Ready-to-Ship 0-18 | Length: Mini | Materials: Lace

You'll be after-party ready with this lace mini from Jenny Yoo. A modern choice, this dress has a ton of romantic details from the sheer lace long sleeves to the scalloped hem of the skirt.

Price at time of publish: $398

Best Ruffle: Needle & Thread Genevieve Ruffle Gown

high neck cap sleeve ruffle wedding gown — Courtesy of Needle and Thread

Size: 0-14 | Length: Floor | Materials: Tulle

Inspired by 1930s Hollywood glamour, this champagne gown from Needle & Thread was made for a walk down the aisle. Featuring cascading ruffles and dotted tulle, the whimsical nature of this gown immediately catches the eye.

Price at time of publish: $749

For the Vintage Bride: Danielle Frankel Avery Gown

high neck mini wedding dress — Courtesy of Danielle Frankel

Size: 0-12 | Length: Mini | Materials: Lace and satin

We're obsessed with the vintage feel of this mini dress from Danielle Frankel. The mix of ivory satin and lace fabric that gathers at the sides of the dress resembles a bustle and gives off a retro train effect.

Price at time of publish: $2,990

Best Convertible Dress: Etsy Lace Sheath Wedding Dress

covervitable high neck wedding gown — Courtesy of AandMEnterprises

Size: 2-28 | Length: Floor | Materials: Lace

Switch things up with this lace convertible dress from Etsy. With a detachable tulle train, you can easily take this vintage-inspired silhouette from ceremony to reception.

Price at time of publish: $1,450

Best Tea-Length Dress: Sachin & Babi Cecelia Dress

tea length high neck dress — Courtesy of Sachin & Babi

Size: 0-14 | Length: Tea | Materials: Lace and poly faille

A tea-length skirt is a perfect balance for a long-sleeve, mock-neck bodice. The floral lace adds a whimsical element to this traditional silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $965

Best Floral: Phase Eight Poppy Embroidered Wedding Dress

high neck wedding dress with short sheer sleeves and beaded embellishment — Courtesy of Phase Eight

Size: 2-14 | Length: Floor | Materials: Polyester

Sheer perfection, this fully embroidered floral gown from Phase Eight is made for the modern bride. Covered head to toe in floral detailing, this gown also features an illusion back and beaded belt.

Price at time of publish: $810

Best Jumpsuit: Brooks Brothers Crepe Bow Neck Jumpsuit

high neck bow jumpsuit — Courtesy of Brooks Brothers

Size: 0-16 | Length: Floor | Materials: Polyester and spandex

Take note of this wide-leg jumpsuit if you're looking for an unconventional bridal look. The bowtie mock neck is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your personal style.

Price at time of publish: $298

Best Budget: Lulu's Tell Me Everything White Beaded Sequin Halter Maxi Dress

Beaded Sequin Halter Maxi Wedding Dress — Courtesy of Lulus

Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor | Materials: Sheer mesh

Who doesn't love a stunning gown for an unbeatable price? This beaded beauty from Lulu's is under-$150, and while it has a subtle mock neck, the floral embroidery and silver beading adds some glam to the column dress.

Price at time of publish: $119

What to Look For in a Mock Neck Wedding Dress

When shopping for a mock neck wedding dress, consider your bridal style to find a look that suits you. A long sleeve, mock-neck dress, whether a ballgown or sheath, is a great option for those who'd like a classic bridal look or for those hosting a black-tie wedding. If you’re searching for a more contemporary option, a sleeveless or mini dress would be a great choice.

When it comes to accessorizing, it's best to stay clear of any necklaces or chokers, as most necklaces can make the neckline appear too clunky or overshadowed when paired with a mock neck. Earrings, on the other hand, are an easy way to accessorize while playing up the silhouette.

FAQ

What’s the difference between mock neck and high neck wedding dresses?

Mock neck and high-neck wedding dresses are similar, but not quite the same. Mock neck wedding dresses have a high neckline but don't usually cover the entire neckline (they also have a collar that resembles a turtleneck). High-neck wedding dresses cover the entire neckline.
Are mock neck wedding dresses for the traditional bride?

Yes, but they’re also for every bridal style! While the modest nature of a mock neck can be seen as more traditional, there are plenty of modern options for brides who want an unconventional wedding gown. Brands like Danielle Frankel, Houghton, Galvan, and Odylyne the Ceremony are good places to shop for this kind of styling.
How do you style a mock neck wedding dress?

If you’re looking to show off the collar of your mock neck wedding dress, a slicked-back or wavy updo can let your neckline really shine. Also, consider a pair of drop or statement earrings for a fun touch that draws the eyes down to the neckline of your gown.

17 Modest Wedding Dresses for Every Bridal Style

About the Author

Ariana Quihuiz is a freelance writer for Brides. She is currently the content manager for wedding gown brand Lyra Vega Bridal, covering bridal fashion, bridal beauty, wedding trends, and more.

26 Best Mock Neck Wedding Dresses for Regal Brides