How to find your perfect necklace length

Are you struggling knowing your necklace size? Let me help you.

I get a lot of people asking me about what different lengths of necklace and how to find the best length for them or for someone they are gifting to. Below is a lot of different factors to consider when choosing a necklace length.

With that, keep in mind each person is different and has different bodies and preferences. This is just a guide to help make an informed decision when picking a length.

Below is a necklace sizing chart to get a good idea about what necklace length might be best for you, though their might be other factors to consider.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Necklace Chain Length

The Different Types of Necklace Chain Lengths

Collar - 14" - This is a necklace that will wrap closely around your neck or throat.

Choker - 16" - Falls closer to the neck and sits at the base.

Princess - 17-18" - Usually falls against the collarbone and is the most common length

Matinee - 20-24" - Falls between your collarbone and the top of your bust.

Opera - 28-36" - A lengthier necklace that usually falls below your bust line.

Rope - 36-42" - This is a much loner necklace and are typically meant to wrap around your neck twice and can have either the same length or different.

Neck Size, Body Type & Height

Neck width - Since every person is unique that means every neck is unique so it is important to measure the around your neck so you have a good idea of what length is going to be the best for what you're looking for.

Neck height - Also some necks are longer and some shorter. While each can decide what necklace length they like, typically choker length tend to work best for those with long neck while those who have shorter necks tend to steer away from.

Body Type - When someone is looking at a necklace their eyes tend to stop at the point where the necklace ends. If you don't want them looking at where it ends, avoid necklace that ends there. For those who have a bigger bust you might not like how a longer necklace hangs but those who have a smaller bust a long chain hangs well.

Height - Typically women under 5'4" look best between 16 and 18 inches. A longer necklace might overwhelm the frame. Longer style chains look very flattering on those who are 5'7" and over

Face Shape

Besides being an a fun accessory a necklace also helps to frame the face. A necklace can help you accentuate your facial features. In general (because you can all really do what you'd like!) those with round faces 'should' avoid short necklaces or chokers because they accentuate the roundness of the face.

Those with an oval shape typically can wear any length. For those with a long shaped face who may want to broaden and soften the shape of their faces they might want to wear a shorter necklace. Typically short, round necklaces will help to keep from adding length.

Choosing a flattering necklace is almost like finding that perfect pair of jeans. It is important to consider what flatters your body type and not just buy what is ever because its trending.

Your Outfit

Since you will most likely be wearing SOMETHING with your necklace, consider what you will be wearing with a necklace when choosing the length. If you are going to be wearing a button up shirt you might want a necklace that falls right above the top button so it can be seen.

If it's colder and you'll be wearing a sweater or turtleneck you might want a necklace that is longer so it can be worn outside the shirt and is visible.

Some suggestions:

- Wear princess length (17-18") with a sweetheart neckline

- Try a collar or choker length (14-16) with tops that have a square neck

- If you're wearing something strapless, a choker could be very flattering.

You probably want to avoid a length that would leave the necklace overlapping the necklace as the necklace would be constantly rubbing against the edge and wouldn't hang straight. Instead go for a slightly longer or shorter chain than the neckline you'll be wearing.

Necklace Pendant

Smaller pendants and charms pair very well with shorter chains and don't overwhelm the necklace. Smaller or drop pendants tend to look better either at a choker or collarbone length.

A larger pendant may look better at 24 or a 30" length or it might look overwhelming higher up.

What do you think?

There are SO many different things to consider when picking a necklace length. What is YOUR favorite length? Do you mix it up and wear different lengths or stick to the same size? Have you ever tried a necklace extender or a magnetic clasp so you can adjust the length?

Here at Silver and Ivy we offer a range of chain lengths and styles of necklaces that you'll love!