A bateau or boat-neck gown has a neckline that stretches from shoulder to shoulder, usually along the collarbone. Usually, you will find this detail on more modest gowns, some vintage styles, and a lot of modern pieces that have a chic energy about them.
Overall, there is a timeless to this neckline that you will want if you are looking for that kind of minimalist and poised design. Here are 10 of our favorite bateau featuring gowns.
Watters, Naya
Credit: Watters
Starting us off on the right foot is this little white dress that can be used for any kind of wedding celebration.
Whether it’s your carefree ceremony, elopement, reception dress, or destination affair, this mini Mikado is absolutely precious.
Pair this with a birdcage veil or some high, classic pumps. It really is a breath of fresh air and a sway from traditionalism that we love.
If you have great legs why not go this route? It’s a bit of relief in the budget area and a great way to make a memory.
Pronovias, Gazelle
Credit: Pronovias
We love this gown so much we have gushed about it in multiple places. It is made from crepe fabric and silk Mikado, making it the ultimate luxury.
The design also features a classic column silhouette, a large flower detail, Beat It appliques and some delicate pearls as well. It is completely modern with the most crisp lines and architecture around.
There are also removable sleeves that make it a super fun choice for a switch of ensemble between the ceremony and the reception. Play with the different looks and add your own accessories for a memorable experience.
Casablanca, Peony
Credit: Casablanca
This gown from Casablanca is a little bit more traditional. It comes in a variety of shades from antique gold and silver to candlelight and ivory. And it is trimmed in some of the most beautiful lace appliques.
Overall, the design features a bit of essential Victorian spirit, the skirt is made of a duchess satin, and the embroidery can be found at the hem of the skirt and at the top of the bodice.
And don’t forget to take a good look at that lace, as it is beaded giving it a little extra umph for your walk down the aisle. There are so many different ways to style it, from a classic veil to loose, flowing curls.
Rosa Clara, Belfast
Credit: Rosa Clara
How gorgeous is this ball gown from Rosa Clara?
Everything about it speaks of the traditional bride and the little girl who’s dreaming of her wedding as she grows up.
The design features a natural waist, bateau neckline, short sleeves, and a voluminous tulle skirt. It is truly a fairy tale, princess piece that was made for getting married.
And don’t forget to check out some of the smaller details. For example, the back has an illusion feature that combines lace and dotted tulle, and it comes in a neutral tone that is beautiful on every skin tone.
Willowby, Kamaria
Credit: Willowby
There are differing levels of a bateau neckline or “boatneck.” This one is a bit deeper but still fits the rounded shape. It’s also a simple, boho-inspired look that we love.
The Kamaria from Willowby features a luxurious charmeuse, a corseted bodice, and draping that is absolutely out of a story book. It also has full, off-the-shoulder sleeves, button details and a small train that adds some traditionalism to the look.
For those looking for a more carefree style, this might be just up your alley. And remember this brand is super accessible to all different sizes and you can even order it in particular lengths from petite to tall.
Allure Bridals, 9955
Credit: Allure Bridals
This gown might have an illusion lace boatneck, but it still fits the bill.
This style from Allure Bridals features gorgeous lace and a silhouette that accentuates the feminine body so elegantly and sensually.
The lace includes trailing vines and floral motifs and covers the entirety of the dress from head to toe. It really makes a classic, bridal statement for your big day.
This gown would look tremendous with a long veil, as well as at venues that speak to Mother Nature’s soul.
It’s a great design for spring and summer weddings in particular.
David’s Bridal, WB4005DB
Credit: David’s Bridal
For the modern bride with an elegant touch, this low back mid-sleeve crepe and satin wedding dress is the one you will fall in love with.
You can find it at David’s Bridal, super accessible and super budget friendly.
What is so great about this design is that it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles.
Instead, you can create your own. It’s completely unadorned but still luxurious in the silhouette.
And, along with its bateau neckline, comes a ball gown look that you can style with a veil, a belt, the right shoes, and even the right jewelry.
Rebecca Ingram, Rosemary Leigh
Credit: Rebecca Ingram
Similar to some of its predecessors but a bit more bohemian in spirit, comes the Rosemary Leigh ball gown. It is modest, sure. It is traditional, a bit, yes. But, it’s also magical.
We love the innocence and youthful charm of the design itself. But we also love its long sleeves, its ruffle tulle skirt, the stretch crepe on the bodice makes it super comfortable, and there is even a scoop back.
There are so many different ways that you could style this dress. Go the ultra contemporary route with a sleek ponytail or let down your waves for a more storybook inspired ensemble.
Anthropologie, Ludlow
Credit: Anthropologie
Never underestimate the power of Anthropologie and all you can find there. The Ludlow gown is a gorgeous, textured piece featuring a bateau neckline that we have fallen head-over-heels in love with.
The lace itself is super unique and lends its hands to a modern bride. It also features cap sleeves, an illusion neckline, a column silhouette, and a sweeping train. There are plus sizes available and it is super budget-friendly as well.
It’s a great piece for destination weddings, outdoor venues, or more casual ceremonies – any time of the year.
Essense of Australia, 7664
Credit: Essense of Australia
We leave the list with an Essense of Australia design ready to be swooned after. It is a modest, column dress with an amazing detail in the back that cannot be missed.
Although the front of this dress leads with the higher, scooped neckline, it is a great compliment to the curve accentuating silhouette and the sheer lace open back detail.
The dress is made with soft crepe, making it a great choice for warmer weather days and it’s super comfortable as well. The back also offers up some fabric covered buttons, a lace ddge train and some cutaway detailing to really make this a showstopping moment.
