For Elegance and Romance, Go With a Square Neckline

Sitting somewhere between Renaissance, cottagecore, and Victorian, the square neckline has always felt like a subtle nod to the past. This elegant silhouette punctuates the collarbone while creating a linear line that feels like a step above the ubiquitous scoop neck. It’s timeless yet trendy, demure but also a bit daring—the square neckline is a study in symmetry and balance. And while its popularity amongst designers ebbs and flows from one year to the next, it’s a shape that is reliably around for the long haul.

The square neckline is also a design detail that transcends seasons, making it a versatile investment no matter if it’s snowing or a sunny day. Right now, a spate of square-neckline iterations is coming into focus for the season ahead, with pieces like puff-sleeve blouses and ruched square-neck dresses making their debut. For the minimalist type, form-fitting rib-knit options also abound, as do sleeker staples like corset-style tops and easy-to-wear bodysuits. Ahead, find 26 noteworthy picks for incorporating a square neckline into your wardrobe.

1/25

Merlette Eemnes square-neck cotton-blend cloqué dress

The square neckline gives a bit of structure to this voluminous babydoll dress.

2/25

Casa Raki Nicola square-neck organic-linen blouse

This is the kind of versatile blouse your wardrobe has been searching for.

3/25

Mango textured cotton T-shirt

A pop of lavender will never feel outdated.

4/25

Zara square-neck shirt

Meet your new favorite white tee.

5/25

Bernadette taffeta puff-sleeve maxi dress

Pleated sleeves and a taffeta texture complement the square neckline on this romantic evening dress.

6/25

Nanushka Mio structured long-sleeve top

Upgrade your repertoire of neutral basics with this long-sleeve top.

7/25

Marina Moscone square-neck plissé top

The puckered fabric and raw hem elevate this black top.

8/25

Frame puff-sleeve square-neck cashmere sweater

Tuck into blue jeans for an update on your sweater and denim go-to pairing.

9/25

Vince square-neck cotton knit dress

A soft, simple cotton dress crafted with thoughtful details, like a square neckline and waist tie.

10/25

Hill House Home Ellie nap dress

A nap dress always feels romantic, particularly when designed with a square neckline.

11/25

Ganni long dress

Wedding season is coming up; this square-neck number is ideal for guests.

12/25

Aje Esme puff sleeve cropped top

Keep this powdery pink top on hand for your next celebration.

13/25

Cos square-neck long-sleeve bodysuit

For effortless polish, lean on a square-neck bodysuit.

14/25

H&M cut-out crop top

The square neckline lends structure to this top’s cutouts and strappy ties.

15/25

Tove Lily top in organic cotton

A refreshing take on the micro polka dot.

16/25

Oscar de la Renta puff-sleeve poplin peplum blouse

A pink puff-sleeve top that oozes fun.

17/25

Bottega Veneta sculpted halterneck sleeveless dress

The square neckline and front-zip detail make this halter neck dress feel modern.

18/25

Ulla Johnson Amalie balloon-sleeve jumpsuit

A jumpsuit that translates to all occasions.

19/25

Alice + Olivia Ramsey denim mini-dress

Worn on its own once the weather warms up or with a slim tee layered underneath, this denim a-line mini is full of charm.

20/25

Kika Vargas Nagita puff-sleeve cotton-blend dress

Make this your staple LBD for the year.

21/25

Caroline Constas Delilah smocked crop top

Allover ruching combined with a square neckline lends this salmon-colored top a romantic finish.

22/25

Batsheva square-neck cotton-moire top

For a hint of nostalgia, this puff-sleeve blouse nails the aesthetic.

23/25

Galva Freya ribbed-knit midi-dress

A dress that inspires confidence—and an outfit repeat.

24/25

Staud Wells linen tank

Pair this corset-style top with baggy denim or cargo pants.

25/25

Reformation Joi ruched organic cotton-blend poplin top

For the lover of a perennial going-out top.