Keyhole neckline

Also called: Keyhole cutout

Highlights and balances

Highlights

Adds a small glimpse of skin to a covered neckline

Wear it when

Events it suits

Pairs with

Silhouettes: Sheath, Shift, Column
Sleeves: Long sleeve
Lengths: Midi
Fabrics: Jersey, Crepe

Avoid if

You want an unbroken high neckline

A keyhole can also sit at the back, as a detail on an otherwise covered dress.

A keyhole neckline is a closed, high or round neckline with one small opening cut into it just under the throat. Among dress necklines, it is the one that keeps the chest covered while still showing a little skin. Listings sometimes call it a keyhole cutout, and you will see it most often on straight, simple dresses for cocktail and dressy casual events.

How to spot a keyhole neckline

Look at the center front, right below the neckband. The neckline stays high or round, and a single small gap breaks it. The gap is often fastened at the top with a button or a tie, so a small loop or bow at the throat is a quick clue on a hanger. Turn the dress around before you rule it out, because some keyholes sit at the back of a dress that is covered everywhere else.

Two terms get mixed up with it:

High neck: a high neck covers the chest with no break at all, so an unbroken neckline is never a keyhole.
Halter: a halter is defined by straps that wrap or fasten behind the neck and leave the shoulders and back bare, while a keyhole is defined by the opening itself.

Wearing a keyhole neckline well

The opening is the only skin on show, so it reads best on clean, straight shapes. A sheath, a shift or a column gives the detail room without competing lines. Long sleeves keep the rest of the look covered, which makes the small cutout stand out more. Try crepe first: its matte surface and clean drape keep the edges of the opening crisp. Jersey works when you want something softer that moves with you.

For a rehearsal dinner, try a midi crepe sheath with long sleeves in deep green or navy, with block heels and small earrings. Skip white and pale shades, since the couple often wears them that night. Leave the throat bare or choose a fine chain, so a necklace does not cover the opening.

FAQ

Is a keyhole neckline formal?

It sits in the middle of the range. It suits cocktail, semi-formal, dressy casual and smart casual codes, so fabric and length set the tone. For black tie, browse other options among the necklines in the glossary.

Can I wear a keyhole neckline to a graduation?

Yes. Graduates wear a gown over their clothes, and the neckline is one of the few parts that shows, so a keyhole adds interest above the gown. Guests can wear one too, with comfortable shoes and a layer for a long outdoor ceremony.

Is a keyhole neckline modest?

It is more covered than most open necklines, but it is not fully closed. If you need an unbroken neckline for a religious venue or a personal preference, choose a high neck instead, or pick a keyhole that fastens shut with a button.