How to Choose the Right Necklace Length?

Necklaces come in all sizes and lengths. You will find chokers, short chains, medium necklaces, and those extra-long ones too. There is a huge variety to pick a necklace length that suits you the best.

Typically, a 16-inch necklace is a comfortable length, like an elegant moissanite tennis necklace. It is neither short nor long – instead, it sits perfectly on your neckline and gives you that beautiful, feminine touch. However, people who have longer or shorter necks may want to consider different lengths. So, in this post, we will discuss what options you have and how to pick the best one. Let’s get started!

What Are Different Necklace Lengths?

Necklaces come in various lengths, and each length is suited to different looks and occasions. Understanding these lengths can help you choose the right necklace to complement your outfit and enhance your look. Here are the different necklace lengths:

1. Collar (12-14 inches)

Collar necklaces sit snugly around the middle of the neck and create a bold look. They are best suited for high necklines, off-the-shoulder tops, and formal occasions. The close fit of a collar necklace can add a sophisticated touch to your evening wear, making it a perfect choice for special events. 

2. Choker (14-16 inches)

Choker necklaces rest at the base of the neck, fitting slightly looser than collar necklaces. Their versatile style makes them suitable for almost any neckline. Chokers can be worn alone for a simple and chic look or layered with longer necklaces for a trendy, fashionable appearance. 

A great example is the tennis necklace from the moissanite jewelry shop. It’s not snug-fit, so you don’t feel discomfort. It is the perfect length for most necklines and beautifies your outfit instantly. 

3. Princess (17-19 inches)

Princess necklaces fall just below the collarbone. This makes them one of the most popular necklace lengths. They are ideal for crew neck, scoop neck, and V-neck tops – providing a perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. This length is excellent for showcasing pendants and can serve as a focal point of your outfit.

4. Matinee (20-24 inches)

Matinee necklaces fall at the top of the bust, offering a length that is both elegant and versatile. They are well-suited for business and casual wear, as well as high necklines. Matinee necklaces can elevate work outfits or enhance casual looks with their refined style. They are also great for layering and can be worn with or without pendants to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your wardrobe.

5. Opera (28-36 inches)

Opera-length necklaces fall below the bust, typically reaching the breastbone. They are perfect for high necklines and evening wear, providing a dramatic look. Opera necklaces can be worn as a single strand or doubled for a shorter, layered effect. This length is ideal for formal occasions and can add length to your silhouette.

6. Rope (Over 36 inches)

Rope necklaces, which fall below the waist, offer great versatility and style. They can be worn in various ways, including wrapped multiple times around the neck, knotted, or layered to create different looks. They are also suitable for both casual and formal wear, making them a versatile addition to any jewelry collection. They are perfect for making a bold fashion statement.

How to Choose the Best Necklace Length?

Choosing the best necklace length involves considering several factors, including your body type, face shape, outfit, and personal style. Here are the factors to help you make the right choice:

Consider Your Neck Size

Measure your neck circumference to determine the most flattering necklace length. For a comfortable fit, add two inches to your neck measurement for choker styles. 

If you have a shorter neck, longer necklaces (like princess or matinee lengths) can create an elongated appearance. Conversely, shorter necklaces, such as chokers, can accentuate a longer neck.

Match Your Body Type

Your body type can influence how a necklace looks on you. Petite individuals may find that shorter necklaces, such as collar or princess lengths, are more proportional and highlight their frame. Taller or larger individuals might prefer longer lengths like matinee or opera, which can balance their proportions and create a harmonious look.

Complement Your Face Shape

The shape of your face can affect how a necklace enhances your features. For round faces, longer necklaces, such as opera lengths, can create a slimming effect. Oval faces are versatile and can be worn almost any length. 

Heart-shaped faces benefit from shorter necklaces that sit at the collarbone, drawing attention to the décolletage. Square faces can soften their angles with necklaces that have rounded shapes and sit below the collarbone.

Coordinate with Your Outfit

The neckline of an outfit is very important when choosing the right necklace length. For high necklines, longer necklaces like matinee or opera add balance and elegance. 

V-necks and scoop necks pair well with princess or matinee lengths, which follow the neckline’s curve. Strapless and off-the-shoulder tops are perfect for showcasing collar or choker necklaces that highlight the neck and shoulders.

Reflect Your Personal Style

Your personal style should guide your choice of necklace length. If you prefer a minimalist look, shorter lengths like chokers or princess necklaces with simple designs may be ideal. 

For a bold statement, opt for longer lengths like opera or rope, especially with intricate or layered designs. Mixing and matching different lengths can also reflect a unique and trendy style.

Purpose of the Necklace

Consider the occasion and purpose of the necklace. For everyday wear, choose versatile lengths like princess or matinee that can be easily paired with various outfits. 

For formal events, longer lengths like opera or rope add drama and sophistication. Statement pieces often look best in longer lengths, while more subtle, everyday pieces can be shorter.

Try It On

Before you go, let us give you some very important advice. When possible, always try on different necklace lengths to see how they look and feel. Pay attention to how they interact with your outfit, body type, and face shape. 

The right length should make you feel confident and comfortable. It should enhance your natural beauty and complement your style. You can ask for your family and friends’ opinions to analyze the effect better, too. Good luck!

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