Rundhals

Rundhals is a neckline design term used in German and other European fashion languages to describe a round, circular opening at the base of the neck. In English fashion usage it is commonly called a crew neck or round neckline. The Rundhals is defined by a simple, uninterrupted arc that sits close to the wearer's neck and does not incorporate a fold, lapel, or stand.

Variations include depth—how far the opening sits from the collarbone—and width—the circumference of the opening. Fabrics commonly used for rundhals garments include cotton jersey, wool knits, and blends, for items such as T-shirts, sweaters, pullovers, and dresses. A ribbed knit edge or a narrow binding is often used to anchor the opening and provide stretch.

Rundhals garments are popular for casual wear due to their unobtrusive silhouette. They are easy to layer under jackets or cardigans and pair well with many shoulder lines and outfits. The round neckline flatters a wide range of face shapes and is a staple in many wardrobes.

Historically, the round neck emerged as a practical, mass-producible neckline in knit and jersey garments during the 19th and early 20th centuries, later becoming a standard feature of T-shirts and sweaters across many cultures.

See also: crew neck, neckline, T-shirt.