Textiles and Dress

Halterneck

Halterneck is a style of women's clothing strap that runs from the front of the garment around the back of the neck, generally leaving the upper back uncovered. The name comes from livestock halters. The word "halter" means "holder" or "that which holds" and is of Germanic origin. The halter style is used with swimsuits to maximize sun exposure on the back and minimize tan lines. It is also used with dresses or shirts to create a backless dress or top. The neck strap can be covered by the wearer's hair, leaving the impression from behind that nothing is holding the dress or shirt up. If a bra is worn with a halter top, it is generally either strapless or is a halterneck construction itself. This is to avoid exposing the back straps of a typical bra. A halter top is a type of sleeveless shirt similar to a tank top but with the straps being tied behind the neck. In another style of the halter top, there is only a narrow strap behind the neck and a narrow strap behind the middle of the back, making it mostly backless. This design resembles many bikini tops, although it covers the chest more. This design can cover some, all or none of the abdomen at the front. It has been suggested that the neckline's appeal stems from both an aesthetic and practical purpose. The neckline eliminates the potential for unappealing straps in the back, leaving exposed skin to absorb sunlight and display an aesthetic taste.

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See also

• ▸1795–1820 in Western fashion
• ▸Chick Corea
• ▸Bead embroidery

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