Choosing the right necklace size is essential for ensuring a flattering and comfortable fit. Different necklace lengths can complement various necklines, body types, and personal styles. Here’s a detailed guide to help you measure and choose the perfect necklace size. ♥

Common Necklace Lengths and How They Fit

12 inches - Collar 

Sits snugly around the middle of the neck, like a collar. 

Best for crewnecks, boat necks, off-the-shoulder tops, or as a statement piece with formalwear. 

Suitable for individuals with smaller necks. This style offers a bold, close-fitting look.

14-16 inches - Choker

Sits tightly around the base of the neck. The right-sized choker should fit comfortably, allowing just enough space for one finger between the chain and your neck.

Best for: Pairing with any outfit, from casual to formal. Works especially well with open-neck or V-neck tops.

This is a classic, versatile length that’s flattering for most necklines. My personal favorite type of necklace. Perfect for layering and creating a necklace stack. 

18 inches – Princess

Sits below the collarbone.

The most popular necklace length, ideal for everyday wear. Works well with plunging necklines, scoop necks, and button-down shirts.

This length works for nearly all necklines and is perfect for adding a pendant. Use it as a second or third necklace to complete a necklace stack.

20 inches – Matinee

Falls just above the bust.

Best for slightly more formal wear, suitable for high necklines and adding a subtle statement to an outfit.

A great length for layering with shorter necklaces or wearing over turtlenecks and high-neck shirts. Use it as a third necklace to complete a necklace stack. 

 22-24 inches – Longer Matinee

Falls around the center of the bust.

Best for casual to business attire, offering a sophisticated look with blouses or dresses.

This length creates a more elegant and elongating effect, especially on taller individuals. Use it as a third or fourth necklace to complete a necklace stack.

28-36 inches – Opera

Falls just below the bust or at the top of the ribcage.

Best for formal wear or layering with shorter necklaces for a boho-chic look.

Can be worn as a single long strand or doubled for a multi-layered look. Ideal for high necklines and evening wear. 

36 inches and above – Rope or Lariat

Falls near or below the navel.

Offers versatile styling options such as knotting, doubling, or layering with shorter necklaces.

Perfect for long, elegant looks or dramatic styles. Can be worn with turtlenecks, sweaters, or formal attire.

How to Measure Your Necklace Size

1. Measure a Necklace of your own:

1. Select a necklace you already own and are happy with the way it fits. • Place it on a table detached from the clasp so you can straighten it out.
2. Using the edge of ruler, measure the length of the necklace from the outer edge of the clasp to the other end of the necklace.

2. Use a Measuring Tape or String:

1. Take a flexible measuring tape or a piece of non-stretchy string.
2. Wrap it around your neck, allowing it to fall at your desired length.
3. If using string, mark where the ends meet and then measure the length of the string with a ruler.

(Image source: silverunion.gr)

3. Neck Size:

• For choker or collar styles:

1. Measure the circumference of your neck.
2. Add about 1-2 inches to the measurement for a comfortable fit.

• For longer necklaces, no neck measurement is necessary, but consider your body type and where you’d like the necklace to fall.

(Image source: silverunion.gr)

 

Considerations

Body Type:

• Shorter necklaces like chokers (14-16 inches) tend to look best on individuals with slender necks, while longer necklaces (20-24 inches) can help elongate the neck or torso.

• For petite frames, shorter necklace lengths (14-18 inches) are often more flattering, while longer lengths may be more appropriate for taller individuals.

 

The Pendant:

• If your necklace has a pendant, you’ll want to measure where the pendant falls on your chest. Choose a length that allows the pendant to sit at the desired height.

• Remember that adding a large pendant may shorten the necklace’s overall length slightly.

 

Clothing Neckline and Necklace Length Compatibility:

• V-neck or plunging neckline: Princess (18 inches) or Matinee (20 inches)
• Crew neck or boat neck: Collar (14 inches) or longer lengths like Opera (28-36 inches)

• Strapless: Choker (16 inches) or Princess (18 inches)
• Button-down shirts: Princess (18 inches) for an elegant look over the top or Matinee (20 inches) tucked inside

 

(Image source: myjewelleryshop.com.au)

But honestly, you can wear whatever necklace length you want, as long as it's comfortable! These are just suggestions <3

 

Additional Tips for Necklace Sizing

• Layering: To create a layered look, choose necklaces of varying lengths, such as combining a 16-inch choker with a 20-inch matinee or a 36-inch rope.

• Adjustable Clasps: Some necklaces come with adjustable clasps, allowing you to vary the length slightly for more versatility.

 

Choosing the Right Necklace Size for Different Occasions

• Everyday Wear: Princess length (18 inches) is ideal for daily wear due to its versatility.

• Layered Look: For a cute necklace stack, combine shorter (14-16 inches), middle (16-18 inches) and longer (20-24 inches) necklaces.

• Formal Events: Opera length (28-36 inches) adds a touch of elegance to formal attire, especially when paired with higher necklines or evening gowns.

 

By understanding necklace lengths and how they complement your style, you’ll be able to select the perfect necklace for any occasion! ✮