Ultimate Guide to Styling Your Necklaces

The length of a necklace significantly influences your overall look and can even reveal aspects of your personality. It's not just about the type of necklace, but also how you pair it with your face shape, outfit neckline, and other accessories. To help you make the most of your jewelry collection, Ferravanti presents a comprehensive guide to styling necklaces.

The Importance of Necklace Length

necklace lengths

Choosing the correct necklace length is crucial for achieving the desired effect. Here’s a breakdown of different necklace lengths and how to style them:

Collar Necklace

A collar necklace is the shortest type, typically measuring between 12 and 14 inches. It is usually metallic and sits high on the neck, making it perfect for off-the-shoulder, V-neck, or boat necklines. Collar necklaces are best suited for elegant events.

Choker Necklace

Chokers are slightly longer than collars, ranging from 15 to 16 inches. They come in various styles, from diamond and gemstone chokers to casual leather and lace chokers. This versatile piece looks great with almost any neckline except turtlenecks. For more on styling chokers, read this article.

Princess Necklace

With a length of 17 to 19 inches, princess necklaces are incredibly versatile. They are suitable for both formal and casual settings. Ensure the necklace either sits above or below your neckline to avoid a mismatched look.

Matinee Necklace

Matinee necklaces range from 20 to 24 inches and typically rest just below the collarbone. They pair well with tops that have a bit of cleavage or even turtlenecks. A simple top will help highlight the elegance of a matinee necklace.

Opera Necklace

Opera necklaces are more formal, measuring between 28 and 34 inches. They hang below the bust area and pair well with high necklines. Avoid sweetheart necklines as they can clash with this length.

Lariat and Rope Necklaces

Both lariat and rope necklaces exceed 45 inches in length. Lariats are typically metallic and subtle, while rope necklaces are often beaded. These necklaces pair best with deep V-necklines but should be avoided with turtlenecks.

Styling Necklaces by Face Shape

Round Face Shape

For a round face, opt for longer necklaces like opera, rope, and lariat styles. Avoid chokers and collars as they can shorten the neck and emphasize roundness.

Oval Face Shape

Oval faces are versatile and can wear almost any necklace length, including chokers, collars, and opera lengths. However, avoid very long styles like lariats and ropes as they can elongate the face too much.

Rectangular/Oblong Face Shape

Shorter necklaces like collars, princess lengths, and chokers are ideal for balancing a rectangular or oblong face shape. Steer clear of matinees as their length can exaggerate the face shape.

Square Face Shape

Longer necklaces such as opera, rope, or lariat styles are perfect for softening the angles of a square face. Avoid collars, chokers, and princess lengths.

Heart Face Shape

Short necklaces like collars, chokers, and princess lengths work best for heart-shaped faces. You can also wear longer styles but pair them with a shorter necklace to maintain balance.

Diamond Face Shape

For diamond-shaped faces, opt for opera and matinee lengths, as well as chokers. Avoid princess necklaces and collars. Pearls work well with longer necklaces to balance sharp angles.

Matching Necklaces with Outfits and Other Jewelry

necklaces for women

Pearl Zircon Necklace

Pairing necklaces with the right outfit and accessories is key to creating a cohesive look:

  • Deep V Necklines: Pair with a lariat or rope-length beaded necklace.

  • Strapless Necklines: Opt for chokers, collars, or princess-length delicate chain necklaces.

  • Halter Necklines: Best without a necklace, but a delicate one can work if necessary.

  • Sweetheart Necklines: Go for statement collars or beaded chokers.

  • T-Shirt or Jewel Necklines: Look great with multi-strand pearl or statement necklaces.

  • Asymmetrical Necklines: Delicate layered chain necklaces are ideal. Avoid beads and round shapes.

  • Bateau Necklines: Complement with opera-length beaded necklaces.

When choosing other jewelry, avoid pairing large statement necklaces with equally bold earrings or bracelets. Instead, opt for subtle pieces to let the necklace shine. Mixing metals is fine as long as there’s a common theme. For gemstones, stick to the same color family or choose contrasting colors for a balanced look. For more tips on stacking necklaces, click stack necklaces guide.

Visit Ferravanti's online shop to explore our premium collections of necklaces for women. Discover unique designer pieces at fair prices. For more jewelry insights, read our other articles and share them with your friends.

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