Take the plunge

Is a neckline still a neckline if it practically hits your belly button? Well, according to sartorial gurus, fashion’s next move is towards the ultra-deep V-neck. From sexy, sheer V-neck slip dresses to more modern and structured silhouettes, there’s a style for every girl who is looking to add a sexy tinge to her get-up.

Fashion designer Cameron Kham says, “It is a woman’s moment again in fashion. After a decade-long run of girlie looks, the latest trend of ultra V-neck is strong and bold. It reflects the emancipation of a woman’s wardrobe. The modern and independent woman is proud and confident about her body and isn’t afraid to experiment with different styles. In a way, the ultra V-neck also shows the beauty of a woman’s body, which is sexy and glamorous.”

Designers worldwide are taking feminist fashion a step forward by making clothes for the 21st-century woman that allow her to develop, as she has, from a young woman to a glamorous diva. “Although still daring and revealing plenty, the plunging neckline meets an entirely new level of sophistication this season, with inspiration spanning from utterly feminine to sleek masculine tailoring. With the right amount of styling, attitude and balance, the infinite plunge can easily morph into a secret (and totally fashionable) weapon,” says fashion ace Varun Bahl.

A variation of the ultra V from Gauri and Nainika

Overexposure is, well... overexposure, and designer Babita Malkani cautions, “If you have decided to give the plunging neckline a well-deserved shot this season, you should take into consideration two important aspects: your body type and your level of confidence. If you are well endowed and want to try this look, make sure the cups of the top (dress) are roomy enough to accommodate your assets. Keep in mind that too much bust tissue pushed together or flattened out can look inappropriate. Opt for a subtle plunging neckline in dark colours and delicate pieces of lingerie peeping out from below your plunging top.”

Designer Swatee Singh, on the other hand, shares, “Going sans bra is possibly the best way to approach a plunging neckline. It translates into easiness, effortlessness and unbroken lines but it’s not always suitable. You can also opt for a soft (sheer, lace, mesh) triangle bra and make a statement of it a la Gucci, a bandeau for more of a casual approach, or you can choose to layer a sequined top underneath a bright yellow deep-plunging jumpsuit for double the effect.”

Another way of maintaining the much-needed balance when sporting a deep plunging neckline is to opt for delicate hues, lightweight fabrics and ethereal silhouettes in your garment of choice. Designer Cameron shares, “Go for long, flowy dresses covered in psychedelic prints, or sheer layering (avoid head-to-toe use of transparency though, as the plunging neckline is all about subtle hints than inappropriate parades). Keep the rest of your outfit somewhat subdued as the rule is to flaunt only one body part at a time. Pick a cool pair of flats instead of heels to keep things from looking too over-the-top sexy and use double-stick tape to avoid any possible malfunctions. At night, shine bright baring your décolletage in a sun-ray pleated dress, that’s both romantic and dark. Prior to exposing your skin, make sure you follow a consistent skin-care regimen. Adding a few drops of liquid foundation into your moisturiser is a great way of assuring an even skin tone.”