THE COWL NECKLINE: Draped Elegance
Few necklines depend so completely on the fabric's character as the cowl . Rather than being shaped close to the body, a cowl neckline is created with an abundance of fabric that falls into soft folds around the neck and décolletage. Its beauty is in that controlled looseness. Depending on the drape's depth, it can be modest and softly architectural or plunge dramatically toward the bust. In bridal design, the cowl has an especially fluid quality—elegant without relying on lace, beading or other surface embellishment. When the cowl is integrated into the dress itself , it is usually cut as part of the bodice rather than added afterward. Bias cutting is particularly effective because it encourages the fabric to fall naturally and respond to the body. Silk charmeuse, crepe-backed satin, lightweight crepe and fluid jersey can produce beautiful cowls, although each creates a distinctly different effect. A shallow cowl might simply soften an otherwise clean neckline, while a deeper...
