When choosing a chain length for your pendant necklace, there are many factors to consider. For starters, it’s essential to determine your neck size.
You’ll also want to consider chain thickness (measured in mm) and clasp type. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! This is your chance to show off your unique style.
Know Your Neck Size
You must know your neck size when finding the perfect chain length. If you need clarification on the right length for your necklace, you can use a piece of string or a necklace you frequently wear as a reference. For more accurate measurements, wrap a flexible tape measure around your neck. Generally, most women find a necklace at most 22 inches comfortable. This is important to note if you intend to layer your necklaces. You want your chains to be comfortable and to avoid tangling with each other. For men, a 20-inch chain will sit right above the collarbone for most people and is the standard that most designers aim for. Anything longer than this tends to fall too far down on the chest and can look unbalanced.
Think About Your Pendant
If you plan to wear a pendant or charms, consider what chain style will complement it. For instance, a simple snake chain looks excellent with a charm that has an unfussy design and may even be more visually appealing than a delicate curb or belcher chain.
Necklace chains with a wider width, such as the opera length, look great with large, eye-catching pendants. This chain type is also suitable for men who want to wear bold and substantial pendants.
Trace, belcher, and curb chains are some of the most common necklace chain styles and go with various pendant designs. The choice is yours and should be based on your style and wardrobe. The wonderful thing is that any of these options will improve your appearance and serve as a sturdy base for any jewelry piece.
Take a Look at Your Outfits
Once you know which necklace length you’re looking for, please look at your wardrobe to find outfits that will go with it. Try a matinee necklace, which is 24 inches long and is a good fit for most people. This classic chain length goes with many different chains with pendants. Other options include a curb or snake chain with a simple, clean silhouette.
Shorter chains can look elegant with a sweetheart, scoop, or v-neck neckline and work with a collar or business suit. They’re also great with strapless or off-the-shoulder dresses.
You can also experiment with longer chains, such as a bib necklace or a statement princess necklace. However, you must be careful not to wear a long chain with a high-neck dress or a-frame sweater. This can make your neck look broader than you are.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
The width of a chain may not seem like a significant factor in the decision-making process, but it can make or break a piece. Thinner chains are an excellent choice for casual looks, while thicker chains work well with bold pendants to create a statement look. Before buying a necklace, you can use a string to measure the length of your neck and decide where you want the necklace to lay. This will help you test different chain lengths and find the perfect one. You can also observe a necklace you already own that is the same length, for example, a matinee chain that usually hangs at or below your collarbone.
For those who enjoy layering multiple necklaces, creating a staggered effect with varying lengths is an easy way to add style and interest. Leave 2″ -4″ of space between each layer to prevent entanglement. The best part of experimenting with different chain lengths is finding the perfect one for your style!
