Bridal Dictionary: The Surplice Neckline

The surplice neckline is a diagonally draped and crossed bodice, creating a v-neck and "faux-wrap" style.

Credits: Maggie Sottero style "Isadora"
(Previously blogged here.)

Surplice necklines take their inspiration from wrap styles with one major difference:  True wrap styles close with ties while the surplice is sewn shut.  Since wrap style can sometimes gap and open, the surplice is much more practical, especially in dress or wedding styles, while offering the same illusion of wrap.
(And while we are at it, the wrap style was actually originally inspired by Grecian style tunics and men's church vestments!)

Credits: The Cotton Bride style Alexa - collections 1
(Previously blogged here.)

Surplice necklines can end at the bust, creating an empire waistline or they can extend all the down the bodice.  Surplice necklines are usually more modest that true wrap styles, sometimes even incorporating additional modesty panels to the style.
Here are a few more examples of surplice necklines...
A high waisted model:

Credits: Lula Kate style "Pam"
(Previously blogged here.)

 A lovely grecian style with shawl collar:

Credits: Rosa Clara style "Hegoa" 2012 collection
(Previously blogged here.)

A lovely black lace overlay surplice:

Credits: Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner style 1651
(Previously blogged here.)