Necklaces can make or break your look. This is why choosing the right necklace length is a handy trick you should learn to complete your outfit. With that in mind, here are things to consider when choosing a length.
Neck Size
Let's start with your neck. It might be silly and unnecessary at first, but taking the time to measure your neck can make all the difference when shopping for a new necklace. Here are some of the tips that can help you:
1. For people with long necks, you can take comfort that you can wear almost anything. With all these styles, it can be confusing. You can rock a choker for that 'swan neck' effect, showcasing your features elegantly.
2. A necklace of 20- to 24-inches long can elongate the body frame of people with short necks and make their appearance more seamless.
To help you visualize what a necklace length usually looks like when worn, here's a handy guide:
LENGTH | STYLE | APPEARANCE |
14 inches | Collar | Tightly around the neck |
16 inches | Choker | Tightly against the base of the throat |
18 inches | Princess | Best worn on the collarbone |
20 to 24 inches | Matinee | Fall just below the collarbone |
28 to 34 inches | Opera | Hang below the breast area |
36 to 45 inches | Rope | Sit on the center of the bust or hang close to the navel |
Height
This is why height is also an important factor when choosing a necklace. For one, 28 to 34 inches can overwhelm a person with a 5'4 below height as this necklace length usually falls below the breast area.
Here's a quick guide that you can consult:
HEIGHT | NECKLACE HEIGHT | REASON |
5'4” or below | 16”-18” length, 20”-24” length | This will elongate your frame. |
5'4” to 5'7'' | Any necklace length | As all length can be flattering to your height, it is best to try the pieces to see what looks good. |
5'7'' to up | Longer necklaces like a 36-inch to 45 inches | This will balance your torso. |
The Neckline of Clothing
You should take a look in your closet as well. Knowing what necklines you can work with will help you decide what necklace to buy. Here's a quick guide you can refer to:
TYPE OF NECKLINE | TYPE OF NECKLACES |
Scoop | Short necklaces with pendants |
Strapless | Choker |
Square | Angular pendants |
Turtlenecks | Long chains with pendants, mid-length necklaces |
V-neck | Fashion necklaces with pendants |
Collar | Choker |
Sweetheart | Fashion necklaces with pendants, curved beads |
OVER TO YOU!
If possible, try on first the necklace you're eyeing before purchasing. See if it fits and if this defies all these tips, then so be it. Hey, when you know, you know.
