What is the right necklace length for you?
A guide to finding the necklace length that fits your body… and wardrobe needs!
What is the right necklace length for you? Let’s explore the possibilities together!
First, an important distinction…
A necklace of a particular size will fit differently from one person to another. This is because we each have our own unique body shapes and sizes. Below I’ve demonstrated a variety of lengths as they fit on my frame, which is on the small side. Following the options, you will see pro tips exploring how to determine your perfect!
Second, a strategy on layers…
As you acquire necklaces, selecting different kinds (and widths) of chains, precious materials, and lengths will serve your wardrobe - and your layering game!
Third, a caveat…
As an enthusiastic advocate of multi-wear jewelry, my take on this topic plays into this.
I will guide you through the size options and share style tips on how to wear them in ways that complement your wardrobe!
Here we go:
THE CLOSE FIT OPTION: up to 16 inches
For those who like a snug fit, at or around the base of the neckline, delicate gemstone necklaces or chains are great staples.
These close-fitting necklaces are often categorized as “chokers” or “collars”, but it’s important to make the point that these lengths are different for everyone. For example, a 16-inch necklace will appear longer on a small framed person and fit more closely around the neck of someone with a larger frame.
PRO TIP: I believe lengths that are not “standardized” are better for layering, like this pink tourmaline and Australian opal necklace.
For this reason, I developed a series of delicate layering necklaces along these lines. This enables them to be slightly shorter or longer than standard sizes.
STYLE TIP: Perfect for everyday wear, especially for day-to-night necklace layers! Delicate chains and gemstone necklaces compliment button-ups, crewnecks, V-necks, off-the-shoulder, and beyond.
THE SHORT OPTION: 16 - 18 inches
The short option is 16 or 18 inches. Depending on your body, this will fit around the base of your neck - around your collarbone, or the upper portion of your chest.
A lot of designers create pieces at either length, but here's a big idea: why not have both!
PRO TIP: With an 18-inch necklace, you can ask a designer to add an additional jump ring at the 16-inch length so you can wear the same necklace in either size!
Another great length is a 17-inches because it layers between 16 and 18-inches.
STYLE TIP: This option provides you with a lot of flexibility as a layering necklace, but can also accommodate a variety of necklines from strapless to scoop necks to V-necks to boat necks! Any charm you wear can be beautifully “framed” as it is suspended close to the center of your chest as a focal point. It is a great length for a statement pendant that adds texture or color POW!
THE MEDIUM OPTION: 20 - 38 inches
The medium option can be anywhere from 20 to 36 inches. As everyone’s body is different, this is personal to you.
Demonstrated here is my “go-to” gold rolo chain. While it is 30 inches, you see me wearing it here at 20 inches, thanks to an additional jump ring!
For me, 30 inches is the maximum length for my medium fit. Sometimes I loop it around my neck twice and add a pendant or tassel for a double chain look.
PRO TIP: Heavier pendants require strong chains, such as a cable chain that is thick enough to bear the weight.
STYLE TIP: In the summer, such lengths can be worn with plunging necklines (front and back) and in the winter with a turtleneck or cowl-neck sweater. It’s truly a wardrobe staple for every season! Pearl strands or beaded gemstones at these lengths can complement more formal looks - with or without a pendant or tassel.
THE LONG OPTION: 40 inches +
The long option is called a sautoir!
What is a sautoir? It is a long chain or rope of pearls or gemstones, famously worn by flappers in the roaring 20s!
Some say the authentic length is 4 feet, but you get the idea...
This ombré Peruvian opal sautoir is 57 inches and there are endless ways to wrap it for different looks, from casual to dramatic!
PRO TIP: Sautoirs that are at least 4 feet (48 inched) can often be looped 4 times around the neck for a close-fitted layering look!
Beyond however many times you can loop it, the sautoir is often adorned with a gemstone tassel or other pendant, such as this responsibly sourced black opal TalisWOMAN tassel.
There are so many possibilities to make a statement with this length!
STYLE TIP: Sautoirs can be wrapped around your neck one, two, three, or even four times. They are also universal wardrobe staples to wear to brunch, in the boardroom, or black-tie events! It is fun to explore the endless ways to style these. For example, I’m a fan of slipping on a sautoir with a T-Shirt and jeans - a few loops around my neck make for a fun, dynamic look. Alternately, it is exquisite when paired with a long flowing slip dress!
QUIZ: Which layering necklace best suits your style?
SHOP NECKLACES DESIGNED BY WOMEN
JEWELRY HACK TO DETERMINE YOUR PERFECT NECKLACE LENGTH
One way to determine the exact length you desire is to wrap ribbon or string around your neck and adjust it accordingly. Simply apply a piece of tape or cut the ribbon at that length and measure the inches with a ruler. Fun and done!
Have more questions about a necklace with a fit that is right for you?
As an FYI, “standard” necklace length charts do exist. However, I don’t find them particularly helpful or relevant. Why? Such charts vary! More importantly, we all have our unique shapes and sizes and any given length may fall differently on your neck. If of interest, here is one interpretation of such a guide:
Choker: 12 - 13 inches
Collar: 14 - 16 inches
Princess: 16 - 19 inches
Matinee: 20 - 24 inches
Opera: 28 - 34 inches
Rope or Lariat: 35 inches +
THE BRILLIANT CONCIERGE SERVICE
Interested in a curated selection of layering necklaces, designed by women? I’m here for you!
As your jewelry guide, I help you acquire responsibly sourced rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets - thoughtfully designed by women. This means striving for:
• transparency in origin
• conflict-free
• supporting and protecting people, their skills, and the environment - be it land or sea.
I find discerning jewelry that addresses your wardrobe needs and aligns with your values!
The Brilliant Concierge is a fluid, personalized experience, presenting you with thoughtfully designed jewelry for purchase you will love. The service can be:
• Editing your current jewelry wardrobe and anticipating needs for your next purchase.
• Advising you on kinds of jewelry that fit your lifestyle and values, as well as wear and care considerations.
• Sourcing jewelry for you or a gift for someone you love, be it day-to-night stud earrings or an engagement ring.