I’m not a crewneck lover—I may even hate them. Well, I hate them on me, at least. It’s not to say I don’t own a few and don’t pin outfit inspo of classic crewnecks and jeans, but it’s always aspirational. I find them too boxy and restrictive; their square silhouette highlights everything in a top I don’t appreciate. Hot take? It’s a basic that’s just too basic. Just like my last situationship, I’ve given up on trying to make it work. I’m breaking up with crewnecks.
Instead, I’ve been flirting with these seven rich-looking necklines. The sultry deep V and asymmetrical styles serve attitude, and the boatneck silhouette is the epitome of lazy luxury. The delicate and charming appeal of the scoop-neck blouse is ever so inviting. It girls’ go-to for casual confidence remains the halter. Effortless chicness takes form in the strapless top. And the cowl? Well, that’s pure elegance.
Ahead, see my guide to shopping these seven rich-looking silhouettes—you’ll find gorgeous styles from Reformation, Dôen, and Peachy Den as well as Zara and H&M. Trust me. It’s time to forget the crewneck and move on.
V-Neck
Ultra-sleek and stylish, the deep V-neck is an alluring invitation to summer. It’s timeless and elegant with a film noir appeal. The flattering V-neck silhouette is the anti-crewneck. I’d reach for these plunging and chic styles any day of the week.
ZARA
Z1975 Denim Crop Top
Out From Under
Jade Seamless Knit Cutout Tank Top
Banana Republic
Linen Halter Top
Banana Republic
Refined V-Neck Camisole
Asymmetrical
Eye-catching and intriguing, asymmetrical detailings will definitely bring in compliments. I’m a strong believer that fashion should be fun, so playing around with off-the-shoulder styles and metallic detailing is my idea of a good time. Keep scrolling for some cool asymmetrical pieces.
MANGO
Meli Asymmetric Jersey Top
The silver detailing is gorg.
MANGO
Knitted Top With Cut-Out
ZARA
Asymmetric Polyamide Top
MANGO
Asymmetrical Draped Top
Halter
It’s giving a cool girl. It’s giving model off duty. It’s giving Parisian fashion. Halter tops achieve an elevated carelessness that the crewneck could never. I’m totally in need of a new style, but I can’t decide between these five—should I just cop them all?
ZARA
Halter Top With Back Strap
Racerbacks are underrated.
H&M
Pima Cotton Halterneck Top
MANGO
Toucan Wrap Halter Top
Strapless
Now, this is what I want to see! The bandeau top shows just the right amount of skin and only takes a second to throw on. Parisian fashion stylist Sylvie Mus effortlessly pairs the black strapless top with a silk slip skirt and pearl necklace. Shop bandeau styles below.
ZARA
Interlock Bandeau Top
Lioness
Untamed Bodice Top
Reminds me of that one Carrie Bradshaw outfit.
ZARA
Textured Bandeau Top
MANGO
Strapless Flared Top
Scoop
The sweet and honest scoop-neck blouse is an everyday style. Pair it with linen trousers for a summer uniform that will last you through the season and keep you cool in the heat.
Pilcro
Short-Sleeve Sheer Silky Blouse
Sheer is having its moment, and this color is gorgeous!
j.crew
Ruffle-Trim Button-Up Top
J.Crew knows how to do a buttoned blouse.
Free People
Sweet Nothings Blouse
The ruffle trim is so sweet.
H&M
Ruffle-Trimmed Cotton Blouse
Boatneck
I don’t have to say much about the boat neckline. The subtle drape at the collar speaks for itself.
H&M
Draped Cap-Sleeved Top
Reformation
Dusk Stretch Knit Top
Reformation
Darra Knit Top
ZARA
Asymmetrical Ruched T-Shirt
Butter yellow is here to stay.
Cowl
Why wear a plain crewneck when you could slip on a cowl-neck style? The soft, elegant draping elevates any look. Every time I style a cowl-neck top, I feel graceful and poised.
The Drop
Silk Crop Camisole
This and some gold hoops.
Reformation
Darla Stretch Organic Cotton Knit Top
Silence + Noise
Coyote Cowl Neck Halter Top
