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It’s common to have a part of your body you aren’t crazy about, but rather than hiding in oversized staples, there’s likely a fashion trick you can try that’ll draw attention away from the area. For instance, a V-neck dress is a smart choice for those with broad shoulders, since it visually softens your upper arms and directs the eyes up toward the face.
V-neck dresses are also a classic year-round staple, and there’s never been a better time to add one (or three) to your closet. Whether you’re looking for something easy to slip over a swimsuit or prefer an elevated design with long sleeves for the transitional weather, I’ve found 13 options that make broad shoulders look smaller while adding a dose of style to your wardrobe.
13 V-Neck Dresses That Visually Soften Broad Shoulders
1. My Favorite: Both the V-neck and slit sleeves on this pick draw eyes inward, creating the look of a slimmer upper body. Whether you pair this pick with flip-flops or knee-high boots, it’s bound to be something you reach for from now through fall.
2. Easy, Breezy: This V-neck dress features long, flowy sleeves that are more than just fun. They keep your arms covered, while the ruffled hem makes the bottom a bit wider, balancing your proportions.
3. Short and Sweet: There’s so much to love about this V-neck mini, from the tie waist that cinches your middle to the shorter length that shows off your legs. With so many other body parts on display, your shoulders will be far from the focus.
4. Effortlessly Elegant: Sure, this V-neck maxi dress is sleeveless, but the thicker design won’t highlight your shoulders the way spaghetti straps will. Made from a spandex-blend, it’s essentially a luxe version of your favorite T-shirt dress.
5. It’s a Wrap: There’s a reason wrap designs have stood the test of time. By cinching your waist, your shoulders and hips look more even in width, so there’s no need to worry about your arms stealing the spotlight.
6. Sleek Stripes: Those ruffles down the front are more than just pretty. The extra volume makes shoulders look smaller by comparison, while the vertical stripes elongate your frame.
7. Seasonal Must-Have: The floral print on this V-neck midi dress will transport you to the Mediterranean — even if you have nothing booked. Add in the adjustable waist and thicker straps, and you’ve got yourself one flattering look.
8. Very Va-va-voom: This sleeveless V-neck dress hugs in all the right places, flawlessly showing off the bust rather than the shoulders. Wear it solo now, then slip it on under a chunky sweater once the weather cools off.
9. Fancy Flutters: Not all ruffled designs flatter broader shoulders, but these flutter sleeves are light enough that they won’t add unwanted bulk.
10. Perfectly Pleated: The pleated skirt is the highlight of this elegant dress, directing eyes downward rather than toward your shoulders.
11. Celebrity-Inspired: I’ve been thinking of V-neck orange dresses ever since Martha Stewart sported one. This oversized, airy twin gets you the look for less while also keeping you covered.
12. Button Up: The V-neck and the button details on this dress create a vertical line, leaving you looking longer and leaner. It’s one of those timeless pieces you’ll reach for year after year, styling it with sneakers, strappy sandals and maybe a pair of block heels.
13. Fall Find: Shoppers with smaller shoulders say this knit dress is too roomy in that area, which means it’ll totally work for someone who is broader up top. With the ability to scrunch the sleeves and play around with the belt, you can easily adjust this one to your liking.
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Being petite comes with its challenges, and finding flattering clothes is up there on my list of short-person struggles. At 5’0″, I’ve worn my fair share of oversized items and outfits that never fall quite right. However, through trial and error, I’ve discovered one piece that always makes me look longer and leaner: a V-neck […]
