The neckline is the top edge of a garment that surrounds the neck, especially from the front view. Neckline also refers to the overall line between all the layers of clothing and the neck and shoulders of a person, ignoring the unseen undergarments. For each garment worn above the waist, the neckline is primarily a style line and may be a boundary for further shaping of the upper edge of a garment with, for example, a collar, cowl, darts, or pleats. In that respect it is similar to the waistline and hemline. List of neckline types Necklines can be grouped into categories according to their shape and where they cut across the body: Boat neck (one edge, nearly linear) A high, wide, slightly curved neckline that passes past the collarbones and hangs on both shoulders; also called a bateau neckline or Sabrina neckline. A variation is the portrait neckline. Deep or plunging neck These are low necklines, in either V, U or square shapes, that reveal various amounts of cleavage, and some even extending to the natural waist line. Funnel neck A neckline with fabric standing high and close to the neck, cut or knit in one piece with the torso rather than as an added collar Halter neckline (linear, side edges converge on neck) These feature a V-neck or scoop front neckline with straps which wrap around and connect at the nape of the neck. Illusion neckline A compromise between a low and a high neckline, it combines a low (usually strapless) neckline with semi-transparent fabric (sheer fabric or lace) along the top part, thus creating a second, higher neckline. This neckline is often seen on traditional white wedding dresses. Jewel neckline (circular) These are round and sit at the base of the throat, and are also called the T-shirt neckline or crew neck. Keyhole neckline These are similar to halter necklines, but the converging diagonal lines meet in front of the neck, forming a "keyhole". More generally, these feature a central hole, usually just below the collar bones. These necklines are seen infrequently. Off-the-shoulder (one edge, nearly linear. Also known as Carmen neckline) These are similar to boat necklines but are significantly lower, below the shoulders and collar bone. Usually these pass over the arms but, in the strapless neckline style, may pass under the arms. These necklines reveal and accentuate the wearer's shoulders, collar bone and neck.