Allow us to guide you to your perfect necklace length. In this guide, we will tell you about necklace lengths and types. You will also learn how to measure yourself for the right necklace length.
Before you choose a necklace length, you should know that the exact resting length of your necklace will vary with body type, height, neck and torso length. The look will also vary with your style and the necklines of the clothing you wear.
Your facial bone structure and body shape and proportions matter too
A short Princess length necklace without pointed pendants is more flattering to a heart-shaped face and medium-length (Matinee) chains with pendants work for round faces.
Personal style: The look and styling you are aiming for
How you style your look will depend on the necklace-length position. Your choice of necklace designs and chain lengths will depend on this.
Layering: Everybody loves layering necklaces. One of the top rules of layering several necklaces is to layer them in graduating lengths. Are you opting for the layered look with many chains in different lengths, or is it only a single chain that you want?
With or without a pendant? Do you want to wear a pendant on your chain? If yes, then you will need to consider the total length of the chain plus the pendant length.
Necklines and necklace lengths
The right length necklace makes all the difference in complementing the neckline styles of your clothing. Short necklace lengths are best worn with scoop necks and medium chains with organic pendants are sexy with plunging-neckline dresses and tops. Medium and long-length necklace chains are stylish with high necklines. Sweeten your look in a sweetheart neckline with a solitaire pendant or a heart locket. show off your slender neck in a choker necklace and wear it with off-the-shoulder tops for a chic look.
Are you considering a designer necklace? Whether you’re buying jewelry for yourself or as a gift, the first step is deciding which necklace lengths will look best on you, or the lucky recipient. From there, you can choose from a wide variety of chain styles, precious metals, and optional features such as pendants, beads, or gemstones. To get you started, here are six necklace lengths that are sure to please.
It’s All In The Name
Collar: 12 to 14 inches
A necklace measuring 14 inches or less is known as a collar or high neck. This necklace is placed tightly around the neck and best worn with open-neck clothing (e.g., scoop necks, V-necks, off-the-shoulder, and strapless).
Choker: 14 to 16 inches
Necklaces with lengths between 14 and 16 inches are called chokers. Chokers rest at the base of the neck on the neck bone. They can be work with almost any fashion style. Chokers may be custom designed with adjustable chains.
Princess: Usually 18 inches
One of the most popular sizes, princess necklaces feature an 18-inch chain that hits just below the collarbone; it’s best for attaching a diamond or gemstone pendant. This necklace is versatile; it can be worn with every outfit.
Matinee: 20 to 25 inches
A 20- to 25-inch chain that is a popular length for layering, created by wearing two to four necklaces at a time for a look that draws attention. Matinee necklaces fall below the collarbone. They are great for business and casual wear.
Opera: 26 to 36 inches
Hangs below the bust and is long enough to wear as a single strand, or wrapped or knotted to create the illusion of a double-strand, can also be used for layering. Beautifully accentuates business and evening wear.
Rope: 37 inches and longer
The rope length can be worn in several ways (e.g., wrapped, layered or knotted) for a sophisticated, yet elegant look. The beauty of this necklace length is that it can smoothly go from the office to the restaurant.
A Perfect Match
Consider the shape of your face when choosing necklaces. Like necklace lengths, there are six main types of face shapes: round, square, diamond, heart, oval, and rectangular. Of the six, oval and diamond face shapes perfectly complement all necklace lengths, allowing for a wide variety of style choices. Heart and rectangular are best paired with collars and chokers and round face shapes to operas and ropes.
Are you ready to shop? Cornelis Hollander Jewelry has been in the business of making memories for more than 30 years. Our award-winning designer jewelry is flawlessly engineered with bold, beautiful, sharp lines that either you or, if gifting, the lucky recipient is sure to love. Create something unique by scheduling an appointment to speak with a Cornelis Hollander Jewelry Designer today at (480) 423-5000 or sales@cornelishollander.com.