Choosing the Best Necklace Length: What You Need to Know

Why Finding the Best Necklace Length Matters

When shopping for a  necklace it's important to find the perfect length for the look you want.  It’s not  just about aesthetics—it’s about comfort, proportion and balance. Choosing the best necklace length can enhance your focal pendant, compliment your outfit and flatter your body shape. On the other hand, the wrong length can sit awkward on your body frame, feel uncomfortable, or clash with your neckline.

Whether you're looking for a simple chain, a chain to hold a pendant or a long necklace, understanding how different lengths work for your body type will help you make the best choice when investing in a piece of jewelry.

In this guide, you'll learn how to measure for your ideal necklace length. You will learn  how to choose the best fit based on your body proportions, and why certain lengths work better for men versus women.

Understanding Necklace Lengths

These are the most common necklace lengths

• Choker (14-16") – Close to the neck, best for high necklines or layering

• Princess (18") – Most common length, works well with most pendants

• Matinee (20-24") – Slightly longer, good for deeper necklines and layering

• Opera (28-36") – Statement length, elegant with high necklines or layering

• Rope (36"+) – Versatile for wrapping and layering

How to Measure for Your Ideal Necklace Length

Use a soft tape measure around the nape of your neck. Drape both ends each the spot where you want the necklace to sit or the top of a pendant to be. Take the measurement.

You can double check your measurement with a piece of string cut to the preferred measurement and even place a pendant on it.  Hold up to the neck to check the length to give you a good idea if the length is right for you. 

Once you are happy check it against the necklace lengths section above to find your perfect length. 

Whilst measuring think about your neckline You will  want to consider the following questions:

• Does this length flatter my neckline?

• Do I have an outfit in mind when wearing this necklace?

• Will this length compliment the neckline of the dress or top?

• For women: If I have a pendant on this necklace, where do I want it to rest? Will the pendant sit flat nearer the bustline?

• If you have a short torso - does this necklace length accentuate and elongate my body shape?

Finding the Right Length for Your Body Shape and Size

Petite Frames  - Select shorter necklace lengths (14-18") to avoid overwhelming your petite frame.

Curvy Frames - Go for longer necklace lengths (20"+) to prevent a choker effect

Tall or Long Neck -Chokers and shorter lengths work well for balancing the tall frame.

Short Neck or Broad Shoulders - Avoid chokers, opt for mid-length styles to elongate neckline

Choosing the Best Necklace Length for Pendants

Selecting the right necklace length for a pendant is very important. You will need to consider the size and weight of the pendant and choose an appropriate thickness of chain to support the weight and proportionally correct to compliment the pendant.  For instance you don’t want to support a heavy sterling silver statement gemstone pendant on a super fine necklace chain

• Consider pendant size and weight – larger pendants often look better on longer chains

• Placement matters – where do you want the pendant to rest?

• Avoid awkward lengths where the pendant hits at an unflattering spot

 

Is Necklace Length Different for Men vs. Women?

Yes, when selecting the perfect chain length for a man vs a woman you need to consider the different size body frame.  Men have broader shoulders and wider chest frames and generally wider neck sizes than women.  Here are some tips to help you find the best necklace length for men.

• Common men’s necklace lengths are between 18 inches and 24 inches.  Longer lengths are typically better for men.

• Consider the thickness of the chain.  Women’s chains are often lighter and thinner giving more of a dainty look which enhances a pendant on the neckline.  Men’s chains are generally thicker to compliment their frame to enable the chain to be worn by itself without a pendant.Pendants for Men – Usually sit at chest level between 20-24 inches

• When selecting a chain for a man, think about the neckline.  What kind of shirts does he wear? Does he wear mostly collared shirts or t-shirts? These are questions to consider when choosing the perfect length chain with a pendant.

• Layering Necklaces is a great option for a stylish look. Select two different length chains for a cascading look

• Clasp Type – Some clasps allow for adjustability when used with a chain extender which allows the lobster claw clasp to fasten at a longer length. Typically an additional 2-4 inches than the original chain.

Find the Perfect Length with Customization

Some metal chain styles can be easily customized to the length you want.  You can also use a clasp extender to lengthen a chain by 2-4 inches.  

Another option to find the best necklace length is to have a customized beaded chain made for you.  These necklace chains can be created with metallic beads to mimic a metal chain, but gives you more freedom to have the exact length you desire with many design options.  

There are many styles to choose from that can compliment a special pendant.  To learn more please visit this article that explains everything you need to know about customized beaded chains.  Seed Beaded Necklace Chains: Exploring Beadwork Techniques for Jewelry Chains 

If you are ready to work with me to make a customized beaded chain please complete a custom order request form.