The Look

Heavy Necking

Ellen Pompeo in Lanvin

There’s a lot of heavy necking happening in Hollywood, with style stars donning dresses that feature dramatic choker collars. Cynthia Rowley designed the frock worn by Joely Richardson with one goal in mind: “Tough girl meets pretty.” The shoulder-baring style is both necklace and dress and requires few extras. “Keep accessories to a minimum,” says Rowley. “The neckline, rather than your handbag, should be the focus [of the outfit].” The designer recommends wearing hair pulled back with these styles. “Joely did it well,” she says of her client’s look. “Clean and simple, with black tights and flats.”

—Betony Toht

BUY ONLINE NOW Joely Richardson’s Cynthia Rowley frock; $480; at cynthiarowley.com