How to choose the right necklace chain length?

How to choose the right necklace chain length?

With so many options to choose from, how do you know what length necklace chain you need?  Well, when it comes to choosing the right necklace chain length, you will want to factor in the following three items:

NECK SIZE

The most important piece of information you need is the circumference of your neck.  Everyone has a different shape and size neck.  If you want a short necklace and have a 17 inch neck, you may want a 20 inch chain. On the other hand, if you have a 13 inch neck, you may want a 16 inch chain. The easiest way to measure your neck is to take a piece of string and loosely wrap it around your neck. Mark or hold where the two ends meet, then lay flat and measure on a ruler.

NECKLINE SHAPE

Once you know your neck size, try to visualize the outfit or outfits you wish to wear the necklace with.  If not a specific outfit, then what type of neckline do most of your clothes have?  If the necklace is going to be worn with a high neckline, a longer chain length may be necessary to ensure that the necklace is visible. On the other hand, if the necklace will be worn with a low neckline, a shorter chain length may be more appropriate.  Remember to make allowance if there is a pendant.

STYLE

Do you prefer a more classic look?  If so you may prefer the shorter length chains.  Do you like bold/large pendants or do you like to layer with other necklaces?  If so you may want to choose something longer such as 24 or 30 inches.

 

 Mens Womens Average Necklace Chain Length Reference Guide Loralyn Designs

WHAT IF I AM BUYING AS A GIFT

What to do when you don't know the size of the recipients neck?

WOMEN

Woman wearing an 18 inch necklace chain

I can tell you from experience that most women buy 16 to 20 inch necklaces. On an average woman, the 16 inch chain length is considered to be a choker, and it sits tightly around the neck. The 18 inch chain length is the most popular and versatile, as it falls just below the collarbone and can be worn with a variety of necklines. The 20 inch chain length is the longest of the three, and it falls just above the bust.

 

MEN

Man wearing a 20 inch necklace chain

Men typically go for 20 or 24 inch necklaces.  A 20 inch length will lay at the collarbone and 24 inch would fall right above the chest.  

 

Hopefully you are now fully armed with all the information you need to make an informed decision over what necklace length would best suit your needs. If you have any questions or think I have missed something, please drop me a message.

 

 -Laura

Owner Loralyn Designs

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