9 Times Meghan Markle Loved A Boat-Neck Dress
It has become the Duchess of Sussex's signature style!
11 July 2018
All image credits: Getty images
The “Meghan Markle effect” continues, as the world’s obsession with the Duchess of Sussex’s wardrobe has only increased since her royal wedding day. Since the Duchess’ style is the spotlight, we can’t ignore her love of the boat-neck or bateau neckline –from her Givenchy wedding gown to the Ralph Lauren dress for Prince Louis’ christening, the collarbone-grazing neckline has become Meghan’s signature style!
The elegant boat-neck silhouette become famous in the 1930s by Coco Chanel and was later revived by Hubert de Givenchy who designed the ultimate LBD for Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany’s." Although the boat neckline is traditionally reserved for wedding gowns, Meghan Markle’s royal runway has recently featured a parade of dresses (and a chic blazer) with the boat-neck design. This, according to Pinterest, has spurred a rise of saves for “bateau necklines” –que the Meghan Markle effect.
From Prada to Dior and Roland Mouret, the Duchess has worn this particular trend in every way and in every shade, as we’ve created a Meghan Markle bateau neckline look-book to inspire you –may the boat-neck reign continue!
#1 Audrey Hepburn Inspired
For the Royal Air Force centenary celebration, Meghan Markle drew inspiration from the queen of the bateau neckline –Audrey Hepburn, as this outfit was SO Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Meghan stunned in the bespoke Dior navy dress and taught us exactly how to wear the boat-neck design.
#2 Olive Green
The Duchess of Sussex wore an olive green Ralph Lauren dress to Prince Louis’ Christening on 9th July which accentuated her collarbone with her new favourite style. For a further look at this monochrome outfit, click here.
#3 Cute As A Button
For the Queen's Young Leaders Awards Ceremony at Buckingham Palace in June 2018, Meghan wore this classic Prada dress which featured buttons, belt and of course, a boat-neck design.
#4 Statement Colour
The Duchess moved away from her neutral colour palette when she wore this sleeveless Brandon Maxwell dress at the Commonwealth Youth Challenge reception on 5th July 2018. The bold sunshine yellow was a refreshing pop of colour, and although the neckline was narrower, it still had the same effect on the silhouette.
#5 Bridal Look
The Duchess of Cambridge’s biggest style moment came when married Prince Harry in this bridal gown by Clare Waight Keller for fashion house Givenchy –which quick-started Meghan’s love affair for the bateau neckline that we’re all trying to replicate in our own wardrobes!
#6 Chic Blazer
During a visit to Cardiff Castle in January, Meghan proved that boat neckline isn’t exclusive to dresses with this plaid, peplum blazer from American brand Theory.
#7 Navy On The Neckline
The night before her wedding, Meghan was spotted in this Roland Mouret dress with a navy scooped neckline, which draped stylishly on the shoulders. Here Meghan was checking into the Cliveden House Hotel with her mother –as this is the perfect pre-wedding outfit.
#8 Pretty In Pink
Meghan is not only having a moment with boat-necks, but with pastels and neutral tones as well, as this blush pink Carolina Herrera dress Meghan was more off-the-shoulder than boat-neck –but the style still maintains the same concept and fabulously features Meghan’s collarbone.
#9 Timeless In Taupe
Whilst on tour in Ireland Meghan wore another sleek, boat-neck number by Roland Mouret with long sleeves, and a waterfall ruffle falling from her waist –in a taupe-grey shade.
