Matinée, Princess or Collar: Picking the Right Necklace Length Changes an Outfit
Picking the right necklace length can really make your outfit. A choker that hits at just the right spot can really pull together an outfit, while one that hangs precariously at the wrong length can totally throw it off. From fine gold chains worn neatly at the base of the neck to midlength options ideal for layering together, there are so many necklace lengths to choose between.
And if you’re at a loss with all of the different sizes, we’re here to break them down. Scroll below to learn all about them, and then shop our favourites.
14" Collar
This length is ideal if you’re looking to make a statement. The 14” fits tightly around the neck and much like Camille Charrière’s Anissa Kermiche pearl choker, is best worn with open-neck tops or shirts.
16" Choker
This length is a little easier to wear than the collar, as it sits against the base of the neck and can be worn with most necklines. Jeanette Madsen opted for a delicate beaded necklace styled with a low-cut V-neck blouse.
18" Princess
If you’re looking for something classic, go for a Princess length, which rests on the collarbone and can be worn with most necklines.
Related: The Only Accessories You Really Need This Summer
24" Opera
If you’re searching for something to pull a simple outfit together, try the 24” necklace, which falls on the bust or below.
30" to 34" Rope
This one is ideal for layering. The rope length falls below the bust and is best for formal evening attire. Or why not take your cue from Anna Vitiello and style a fine gold chain over a double-breasted blazer?
Shop our favourite necklaces:
See? It makes a difference!
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
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