This Might Be the Most Elegant Dress Trend, Well, Ever

There are tons of dress styles out there, from mini and maxi to sleeveless and long-sleeve, but what if I told you that one is available in all your favorite silhouettes? It's all about the neckline. Timeless boatneck pieces have been popping up everywhere, from tank tops to—you guessed it—dresses. There's just something about this specific neckline that adds a certain elegance to any look. It's no wonder Meghan Markle opted for one on her wedding day. You can find designs with this neckline in many dress forms, including column, A-line, and shift. Plus, the shape lends itself beautifully to statement pendants and choker necklaces.
To help you decide which to add to your wardrobe, I rounded up 29 of the best boatneck dresses, all guaranteed to elevate your winter rotation. The good news is that you can also wear a lot of these styles once spring comes around next year and beyond. It's a classic look that will stand the test of time season after season, so you'll want to snag one (or more!) of the below dresses. There are LBDs, zebra-printed numbers, and ribbed knits that you can incorporate into your closet now—no actual boat needed.
This dress deserves at least one big moment in the spotlight.
A velour mini with metallic accessories makes a festive look without being too on the nose.
This is a midi dress you'll constantly have on rotation in your closet thanks to the comfortable smocking and breezy silhouette.
Consider me smitten with this patterned mini.
Linen isn't just for summer. This black minidress can be worn with a fabulous coat and opaque tights in chilly weather.
The front of this looks super elevated, but wait until you see the low back.
The best part isn't even the price—it also has attached shorts in the lining!
Pair this slightly sheer, gauzy mini with tights and boots or pumps for a fun, unexpected holiday option.
A sweaterdress is a staple for a reason, and this gray one will get lots of compliments.
Lauren Adhav is a freelance fashion editor based in Los Angeles. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she got her start as the beauty and fashion editorial assistant at Cosmopolitan and worked her way up to fashion editor. She contributed to both the website and print issues, pitching new ideas, forecasting trends, covering red carpet events, and informing the overall coverage and brand voice.
After five years in NYC, she moved to Los Angeles. As a freelance fashion editor, she contributes to Cosmo, The Cut, and nowBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing . She also spends an unhealthy amount of time online shopping for the perfect piece, and now that she's in L.A., she's rediscovering her soft spot for malls.
-
7 Easy Yet Elevated Spring Outfit Ideas to Wear on Repeat
Get stylishly ready in a snap.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
This It Girl Approved Style Will Be *the* Summer Vacation Dress Trend of 2025
Hailey Bieber is aware.
By Allyson Payer
-
Look, If I Were You, I'd Buy These 42 UpscaleReplica Store, Zara, and J.Crew Items Before Anyone Else
They're too good.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
I'm a Plus-Size Fashion Editor—42 Stunning Styles I'm Eyeing to Refresh My Spring Wardrobe
Your spring wardrobe refresh made easy.
By Chichi Offor
-
Rich-Looking Outfits Are the Goal—31 Chic Pieces From the Amazon Big Spring Sale That Fit the Bill
These will have you doing a double take.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Elegant Dressers Will Find TheseReplica Store Jackets, Shoes, and Dresses Irresistibly Chic
There's something for every budget.
By Judith Jones
-
Stop Right There! These Gorgeous H&M and Zara New Arrivals Are Bound to Sell Out Soon
The only spring shopping list you need.
By Chichi Offor
-
This Elegant Color Is to Spring What Black Is to Winter
Tell your friends.
By Allyson Payer