
A wide-open neckline exposing the shoulders is known asBardot dress or an off-shoulder neckline. A Bardot/off shoulder neckline is frequently elasticized and gathered, and it may be embellished with frills or ruffles. It's a timeless neckline that graced the garments of Regency ladies.
I don't think of many people as "style icons." Sure, there are a lot of people with incredible, bold, even hazardous style, but there aren't many I'd call everlasting icons. One exception is Brigitte Bardot. I may not understand a lot of her flicks (being French and all), but I get her flair. So, if there's any way, I can channel even a smidgeon of what she's going through, I'm all for it. That's why the Bardot / off-the-shoulder / cold-shoulder / whatever you want to call it trend had me swooning. The Bardot trend started in 2015 and is still going strong six years later. I don't usually write about fads that come and go, but I think this one is worth mentioning.
This summer, I've been buying everything from tops to skirts, and even jumpsuits. However, whenever I wear them, at least one person tells me that they wish they could wear them but that "their shoulders are too broad" or "their torso is too short." Ladies! The nicest part about the Bardot look is that it looks great on everyone.
Granted, the Bardot trend is geared for folks who prefer to show a little skin, but that doesn't mean you have to follow suit. Look for designs with cap sleeves or a draping cold-shoulder sleeve, which is the latest take on the trend (and next on my shopping list!). If you're conscious of your upper arms or that armpit fold we're all prone to, look for designs with cap sleeves or a draping cold-shoulder sleeve, which is the latest take on the trend (and next on my shopping list!).
If you have a larger chest, avoid wearing a straight neckline, since this will make your shoulders appear wider and give you the dreaded monoboob. Choose a sweetheart neckline to highlight your curves while softening your décolletage.
This striped Zara Bardot dress is lovely, although it was a little sack-like and didn't flatter my figure. That's why, to add some definition to my waist, I grabbed a material belt from another garment and knotted it around it. The beauty of the Bardot trend is that it's sensual without being overpowering, which means that many of the styles are more relaxed. This is something I adore, however a knotted or narrow belt is more often than not a better option.
Personally, I want my shoulders and back to do all the talking so I don’t wear a necklace with my Bardot pieces. But, if you want to, a thin, subtle necklace would add another layer to your look, just be careful it’s not too much.
If you’re looking for something a little different, I love to team my Bardot top underneath a sleeveless shirt dress in a neutral colour. You can also do this with a vest top to make it give it a new edge.
I don't wear a necklace with my Bardot items because I want my shoulders and back to do all the talking. A thin, delicate necklace, on the other hand, would offer another layer to your outfit if desired; just make sure it isn't too much.
I like to wear my Bardot dress top underneath a sleeveless shirt dress in a neutral colour if I want to try something a bit different. You can do the same thing with a vest top to give it a new look.
What's your take on the Bardot look? Perhaps you've discovered a new way to wear it, or you'd prefer to stay away from it entirely. I'd love to hear your thoughts at Goddiva.