Wedding dress 1971

There’s a lot going on at the neckline of this dress, and every bit of it is intentional.

The silhouette is an A-line with a relaxed, flowing chiffon skirt that sweeps into a modest train. The bodice is ruched across the front in a sweetheart shape, fitted through the waist with floral lace appliqué running along the lower edge. From there the skirt opens into a front slit that gives the whole look a little movement when you walk.

The neckline is where this dress gets interesting. The sweetheart bodice itself sits strapless, but two separate elements frame the upper body. A lace halter collar rises from the neckline up to the throat, made from sheer tulle with scattered floral and leaf appliqués. It closes at the back of the neck and leaves the shoulders and upper back completely bare. Then, separately, short lace cuffs sit just off the shoulder, held by thin straps, adding a soft sleeve detail without covering the décolletage. The back is largely open, showing the skin between the halter strap and the top of the skirt.

This is a dress that works well outdoors. A garden ceremony, a coastal venue, an evening reception on a terrace. The chiffon moves with you rather than against you.