A necklace is the quintessential jewelry piece that can transform an outfit and elevate your personal style from day to night. While the type of necklace you choose is ultimately up to you, one element that can make a big difference is the necklace length. Whether you prefer a long, statement-making chain or a dainty necklace that delicately accents your neckline, the right length will highlight your features and flatter your figure. But with so many styles available and a multitude of lengths to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you?
The exact resting position of your necklace will vary depending on your height, neck and torso length. In addition, your preferences and wardrobe will also play a role in the necklace length that works best for you. For example, if you wear a lot of turtlenecks, long ropes of chain may not look well with them. Chokers are also not the best option for those who wear a lot of turtlenecks because they can pull the fabric tightly across your face, obscuring your neckline.
That’s why it’s important to consider all of these factors when choosing a necklace length. Having a good understanding of the most popular necklace lengths will help you narrow down your options so that you can find the perfect fit for any occasion.
Ideally, your necklace should sit just below the base of your collarbone. This length is usually preferred for men and women with a smaller bust size or those who want to avoid the dreaded double-chin effect. It’s also a great length for layering and stacking with other pieces to create a glammed-up look.
This necklace length sits at the base of your neck and can be worn as a single strand or layered to add more dimension to your neckline. This is a versatile necklace length that can easily transition from day to night. It’s also a great option for those who like to wear more formal jewelry, such as pendants and chokers.
Necklaces that fall within the 28”-36” range are known as opera necklaces and are a popular necklace trend. These lengthier styles work well for those with an oval or heart-shaped face and can be a great way to break up an outfit and show off your neckline.
While it would be nice if necklaces were a one-size-fits-all, determining the proper necklace length can be tricky, especially when shopping online. Fortunately, there are several ways to measure your neck size without having to buy anything (just like you do when buying a ring). You can use a soft measuring tape or ribbon around the base of your neck to get an idea of how long a piece should be and then compare that number to other necklaces you own to find your ideal length. You can also lay a flat necklace on a table and measure the distance from one clasp to the other to determine its length.