Crewneck vs. V-Neck: Which Neckline Flatters You Most? | Jo-Lynne Shane

What Is a Crewneck and Who It Flatters

A crewneck is that classic round neckline you’ll find on everything from your favorite tee to a cozy sweater. It sits higher on the neck, creating a clean, simple frame that draws the eye toward your face.

This style tends to be most flattering on women with longer necks, smaller busts, or narrower shoulders, since the higher neckline helps balance those proportions. It also has a timeless, slightly sporty vibe that works beautifully on its own or layered under jackets and blazers.

 Jenni Kayne Cashmere Fisherman Sweater (S) (budget option)

If you have a heart-shaped or oval face, a crewneck tends to complement your features beautifully. It also provides a nice, clean backdrop for accessories—think statement earrings, a bold lip, or layered necklaces that really stand out against the simple neckline.

Crewnecks are also great for showing off pattern and texture. Stripes, color blocking, and cable knits shine here because the neckline doesn’t compete with the design—it lets the details take center stage.

C by Bloomingdale’s Cable Knit Crewneck (S) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) // Paul Green Hadley Sneakers (8)

Why V-Neck Sweaters Are So Flattering

While the crewneck is neat and classic, the V-neck is all about shape and softness. The angled neckline draws the eye downward, helping to elongate the neck and create balance through the torso. If you’re looking for a top that naturally feels slimming and lengthening, this is the one.

similar v-neck sweater // Pistola denim // similar loafer mules

V-necks are especially flattering for women with fuller busts, shorter necks, or rounder faces, since the open neckline adds visual space and keeps the focus centered. It’s also a great option if you have broader shoulders, as the diagonal lines help soften the upper body.

Crewneck vs V-Neck: How to Choose the Best Neckline for Your Body Shape

So how do you know which neckline will flatter you most? Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Go for a crewneck if:

• You have a smaller bust
• You like modest necklines
• Your face is long or heart shaped
• You prefer a more classic or preppy style

Try a V-neck if:

• You have a fuller bust or broad shoulders
• You have a shorter neck or rounder face
• You prefer an open neckline
• You want something that elongates your upper body

If you fall somewhere in between, don’t feel like you have to choose just one. I have both in my closet and wear them for different occasions.

How Fit and Fabric Affect Sweater Necklines

Nordstrom Cashmere Vest (S) // KUT from the Kloth Kelsey Kick Flare (8) // Dolce Vita Roslyn Mary Jane (8.5)

The neckline plays a big role in how flattering a top looks, but fit and fabric matter just as much.

A lightweight cashmere crewneck will drape very differently than a chunky cotton one, even though they technically have the same neckline. Likewise, a deep V in a soft knit can look elegant and refined, while a thicker ribbed version gives off a more casual vibe.

Fit is key. A crewneck that’s too tight or sits too high on the neck can emphasize the bust or shorten the neckline. I actually prefer styles that sit a little lower—they visually lengthen my shorter neck and make the shape feel more wearable. The same goes for V-necks—some are shallow and wide, others are narrow and deep—so it’s worth trying a few to see what works best for you.

Sarina V Neck Tank (S) // Bevan Crew Neck Sweater (S)

When I’m shopping, I always pay attention to the shoulder seams and neckline shape in the mirror. A small difference in curve, angle, or depth can completely change how balanced your proportions look. And don’t be afraid to mix it up—I have both necklines in my closet and wear them all the time.

How to Find Your Most Flattering Neckline

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as my style has evolved is that confidence comes from wearing what feels like you. The right neckline can make your outfit look more balanced and help your features stand out in the best way.

Try holding the collar of your top or sweater in different shapes and see how your face and shoulders look. A crewneck might draw attention to your eyes, while a V-neck might highlight your collarbones. Once you start noticing those subtle differences, it becomes much easier to choose what flatters you most—and, more importantly, what makes you feel your best.

How Necklines Affect Layering and Jewelry Choices

Accessories can completely change the look of a top or sweater, and the neckline makes a big difference in what works best.

left: Vince Classic Crewneck Cashmere Sweater (M) // mixed metal necklaces
right: Vince Weekend V-Neck (S) // LAGOS pendant necklace

Crewnecks pair nicely with short chains or statement earrings since the higher neckline naturally draws attention to your face, but they also work beautifully with longer necklaces, which help create vertical lines and visually lengthen the upper body.

V-necks, on the other hand, are perfect for delicate pendants or layered necklaces that follow the shape of the neckline.

If you love scarves, go for a lightweight style with a V-neck so the neckline still shows, or try a square scarf tucked into a crewneck for a little added texture and interest.

The Best Crewneck and V-Neck Sweaters to Try This Season

When I’m shopping for sweaters, I focus on quality over quantity. I’d rather have a few that fit well, feel good, and work for multiple occasions than a closet full of ones that never quite feel right.

If you’re looking to refresh your collection this season, here are some of my go-to sweaters that come in both necklines. And if you missed it, I recently shared a full roundup of my favorites in The Best Sweaters for Fall and Winter. It’s packed with options at all price points, but here are a few of my current favorites:

Jenni Kayne Flynn in Oatmeal (S) // Bernardo Rraincoat (S) // MOTHER Weekend Flare (30) // similar boots in Espresso Leather (8.5) // Davina Stone Necklace // Tom Ford sunnies (option) // Goyard tote (option) // AWAY The Bigger Carry-On Flex

This is hands-down my current favorite sweater. I try not to buy duplicates since I like each piece in my closet to feel unique, but this one is such a timeless staple that I now own it in three colors. The quality is beautiful, lightweight yet cozy, with a relaxed (but not oversized) fit and a perfectly cut V-neckline.

This sweater layers easily under all my favorite jackets but also looks great on its own with a few accessories. The length is just right for wearing untucked or doing a casual front tuck to define the waist and show off a belt.

J.Crew Cashmere Patch Pocket Cardigan (S) // MOTHER Dazzler (30) // Paul Green Hadley Sneakers (8)

I discovered this piece before a trip to England last spring, and it’s quickly become one of my most-worn travel staples. It’s soft, lightweight, and so easy to style. I can dress it up with black pants and jewelry for dinner, layer it over a tee for sightseeing, or tie it around my shoulders when the weather warms up. It even doubles as a cozy layer in the hotel room when I need something to throw on.

White + Warren Striped Crewneck (M) (similar option) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) // Margaux The Demi Flat (39)

This striped crewneck sweater is proof that simple can still look polished. The neckline sits just high enough to feel classic without being tight, and while horizontal stripes can sometimes broaden the shoulders, the low-contrast camel and ivory combo keeps it soft and flattering. Maybe it’s the subtle tones—or maybe I just wear it because I love it, lol—but it somehow works.

Caslon Raglan Sleeve Wool & Cashmere Sweater (S) // PAIGE Anessa (30) // Dolce Vida Vaydin (8.5)

A great closet basic, this wool-and-cashmere blend pullover has flattering raglan sleeves and contrasting rib trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem. It comes in several solids and stripes and makes the perfect layering piece for fall and winter. Runs true to size, or size down if between; I wear the small.

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Fisherman Sweater (budget option) (S) // MOTHER Dazzler (29) // adidas Spezial (8)

And last, but certainly not least, the ribbed fisherman crewneck adds just the right amount of texture without feeling bulky. The ribbing gives the fabric a bit of structure, helping the neckline hold its shape and sit neatly against the collarbone. I love how the simple crewneck balances the cozy knit, keeping the look classic and refined. It leans more casual, but it’s a true classic that never goes out of style. I’ve had this ivory one for almost four years now, and it still looks practically new.

At the end of the day, the most flattering neckline is the one that makes you feel your best. And really, there’s no need to pick a side. I have plenty of both in my closet. Both crewnecks and V-necks are timeless, versatile options. Some days I’m drawn to the clean, classic look of a crewneck, and other days I prefer the easy, elongating lines of a V-neck.

As with most things in fashion, it’s all about finding what flatters you and what makes you feel good when you wear it.