Necklace Size Guide: How to Find the Perfect Length for Your Look

2024-11-25

Picking out a necklace can be so exciting, but finding the right length? That can feel a bit confusing! Whether you're shopping for yourself or finding a gift, understanding necklace sizes can make all the difference in how it looks and feels.

This necklace size guide is here to help! We'll walk you through necklace lengths for both women and men, give you tips on how to choose the best length for any look, and even show you an easy way to measure so you know exactly what to expect. Ready to find the perfect fit? Let's dive in!

necklace size guide

Women's Necklace Lengths

Women's necklaces typically come in a few standard lengths, each creating a unique style and flattering different necklines and outfits. Here's a quick necklace chain size guide to help you understand the options:

14-inch (Choker): This length sits snugly around your neck, ideal for highlighting your collarbone and creating a chic, casual look. Perfect for pairing with off-shoulder tops and boho styles.

16-inch (Princess): The princess length sits just at the base of your neck, offering a versatile look that complements most necklines. Often regarded as the classic necklace length, it's popular for daily wear.

18-inch (Standard): Falling at the collarbone, this is a versatile and commonly worn length that suits most styles and outfits. It's an ideal choice for those who want a balanced, everyday necklace that pairs with any neckline.

20–24 inch (Matinee): Slightly longer, this length rests between your collarbone and bust. It's a stylish option for business attire or more casual looks and pairs well with high-neck tops and turtlenecks.

28–36 inch (Opera): The opera length adds drama and elegance, ideal for evening wear. It can be worn as a single strand or doubled up for a layered effect, creating versatility in styling.

Over 36 inches (Rope): A longer necklace often worn as a single strand or wrapped. This length offers flexibility, allowing for multiple layers or unique looks depending on how it's styled.

womens necklace size guide

Men's Necklace Lengths

For men, choosing the right necklace length is all about finding something that complements your style and feels comfortable. While men's necklaces generally come in a few popular lengths, each has its own unique look and works best with different outfits. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:

18 inches (Short): This length typically sits just around the base of your neck. It's a close fit, so it works best for those who prefer a snug look or have a smaller neck. This length is often used for simple chains and can pair nicely with casual or fitted outfits.

20 inches (Standard): The 20-inch necklace length is one of the most popular choices for men. It sits right around the collarbone, making it versatile and easy to wear with almost any style. Whether you're wearing a T-shirt, button-down, or even a V-neck, this length looks great without drawing too much attention.

22–24 inches (Mid-Length): Sitting a bit lower on your chest, this length has a relaxed, laid-back feel. It's a good option if you want a bolder look or prefer to wear your necklace over shirts and hoodies. A 22- or 24-inch chain also works well for larger pendants or medallions.

26–30 inches (Long): Longer necklaces that hang at or just above the chest add a bold touch to your look. They're perfect for styles that stand out, like a large pendant or a chunky chain, and pair well with casual or street-style outfits. If you like a bit of flair, this length can make an impact!

mens necklace size guide

How to Choose the Right Necklace Length?

Choosing the right necklace length goes beyond just picking a size; it's about selecting a piece that enhances your unique features and suits your style. Here are some simple tips to help you make the best choice for both men and women:

Consider Body Type and Height

Necklace length appears differently depending on height, torso length, and neck size.

For shorter individuals, a 16-18 inch necklace typically sits at the collarbone, while taller individuals might find that the same length appears slightly shorter. Longer lengths like 20-24 inches help elongate the torso for those with a shorter build.

Men often find 20-22 inch necklaces ideal for a balanced look, while women can comfortably wear lengths from chokers (14-16 inches) to longer, 24-inch chains.

Match with Face Shape

Your face shape can also influence which necklace length looks most flattering:

Heart-Shaped Faces: A princess-length necklace (16-18 inches) without pointed pendants softens the angles of the jawline. Men with sharper jawlines may prefer rounded pendants or links in similar lengths.

Round Faces: Medium-length chains (20-24 inches) with pendants add vertical lines, elongating the face. Men with broader facial structures benefit from slightly longer lengths (24 inches) to create balance.

Pair with Neckline and Outfit

Necklace length should work with your neckline to enhance your outfit:

For Both Genders in Casual Wear: Crew necks and T-shirts look best with shorter lengths (18-20 inches for men, 16-18 inches for women), adding a simple accent at the collarbone.

Dress Shirts or Business Attire: For men, a 20-24 inch necklace can work well under the collar without being too noticeable. Women wearing formal attire can opt for matinee or opera lengths (20-36 inches) for a bold statement over blouses and high necklines.

Formal or Plunging Necklines: Long, statement-making lengths (24-36 inches) for both men and women look elegant over suits, dresses, or open-neck shirts. Women with V-neck tops can wear pendants that match the shape for a cohesive look.

Personal Style and Layering Preferences

Whether going for a classic or modern style, the necklace length you choose plays a role in your overall look:

Single, Subtle Chain: For a minimalist look, men might choose a single 18-20 inch chain without a pendant, while women can wear a choker or princess length.

Layered Look: Both men and women can layer necklaces of varying lengths for depth. Start with a shorter piece (16-18 inches for women, 18-20 inches for men), followed by a slightly longer one (20-24 inches). This creates an on-trend, multidimensional style.

With or Without a Pendant?

If you're planning to add a pendant, remember it affects the overall necklace length. Pendants typically hang lower, so account for this when choosing a chain length to ensure the pendant sits where you want it.

How to Measure Necklace Size?

Accurately measuring necklace length is essential to ensure your necklace sits where you want it to. Here are two easy methods to find the ideal length, whether you're using an existing necklace or measuring directly on your body.

Measure the Length of an Existing Necklace

If you already have a favorite necklace, use it as a reference for finding a similar length:

1.Place your necklace open and flat on a table or surface.

2.Using the centimeter or inch side of a ruler, measure from the clasp's outer edge to the opposite end of the necklace. This total measurement gives you the exact length in inches or centimeters.

measure the length of an existing necklace

Measure Necklace Length Directly on Your Body

If you're aiming for a specific length or look, measuring directly on your body can give you the most accurate result.

1.Stand in front of a mirror. Using a flexible measuring tape, piece of string, or ribbon, wrap it around your neck and bring the ends together at the point where you want the necklace to rest. This method allows you to see where each length falls relative to your features and clothing.

2.If you're planning to wear a pendant, factor in the pendant length when choosing your endpoint. After positioning the string or tape, note the measurement in inches or centimeters by using a ruler if you used string or ribbon.

measure the length directly on the body

Conclusion

Picking out the perfect necklace length doesn't have to be tricky. With a little guidance and a few simple measurements, you can find a necklace that suits your style and feels just right. Whether you're after something short and chic or a longer, layered look, this necklace size guide has you covered. Now that you know the basics, you can shop or style with confidence, making sure every necklace you choose complements your unique style and fits just the way you want.

FAQs

What is the average necklace size for a woman?

For women, 16-inch to 18-inch necklaces are the most common sizes. These lengths fall comfortably at the base of the neck or collarbone, offering a versatile look that works with most outfits.

Is an 18 inch or 20 inch necklace better?

An 18-inch necklace typically sits right at the collarbone, creating a universally flattering look that complements nearly any outfit. A 20-inch chain, on the other hand, falls between the collarbone and the bust for a slightly longer, more relaxed style. Choose based on where you'd like the necklace to rest on your chest and the look you prefer.

What is the most attractive necklace length?

The "most attractive" necklace length varies by individual style and preference, but 16-inch to 18-inch necklaces are often considered universally flattering. These lengths frame the face and collarbone well, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.