How to Camouflage a Deep Square Neckline

A square silk scarf camouflages deep necklines.

Making an outfit appropriate for work, church or other conservative functions without feeling frumpy or out of fashion can be tricky. When the difficulty comes from a neckline that is too low or too wide, the addition of extra fabric or other garments is often helpful. However, covering up does not mean sacrificing style. Choosing additions in prints or contrasting fabrics creates a whole new style and makes a dress or top with a deep, square neckline into an extremely versatile addition to your wardrobe.

Instructions

1. Layer a thin, lightweight camisole under a deep square neckline for coverage. Not only will a camisole add modesty to your outfit, but it can also add color and texture. Choose a camisole with lace or beading details at the neckline for new look. Purchase several camisoles in different colors to extend one top or dress with a deep, square neckline into many new outfits.

2. Add a lightweight cardigan to your outfit. The addition of more fabric around your shoulders will cover much of the neckline, though you can button the cardigan completely to hide a deep, square neckline. A cardigan with a classic crew neck works well to camouflage deep necklines, but even a cardigan with a deep V-neck will cover up much of the skin exposed towards the shoulders and upper chest.

3. Borrow a fashion trick from Jane Austen heroines and turn a silk scarf into a fichu for added modesty. A fichu was a triangle of sheer cotton, lawn or muslin that was worn around the shoulders of women in England during the late 1700s. The vogue for wide, deep square necklines required an inexpensive way to add modesty and warmth to often lightweight dresses. Any square silk scarf can be folded into a triangle and draped in the same way as a fichu. Wrap the scarf loosely around your shoulders with the apex of the triangle hitting your back, slipping the edges of the fabric under your garment. Tuck the two tapered ends down the front of your square neckline.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not camouflage a deep, square neckline by adding a chunky necklace. The jewelry will draw attention to the exposed skin instead of hiding it.

References

• "Closet Charm"; Make it Modest - Seven Conservative Essentials; March 2010
• "Is This Modest?"; How to Make It Modest; March 12, 2009
• "The Jane Austen Centre": The Shawl/Fichu