When it comes to accessorizing an outfit, necklaces can make a big impact. However, the length of your necklace can either complement your look or clash with it. The right necklace length can highlight your neckline, enhance your features, and bring your entire outfit together. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the perfect necklace length for different types of necklines.
Understanding Necklace Lengths
Before diving into the details of pairing necklaces with necklines, it’s important to understand the standard necklace lengths available.
Popular Necklace Lengths
- Choker (14-16 inches): A choker sits snugly around the neck and is ideal for adding a bold statement to your ensemble.
- Princess (17-19 inches): This is the most common necklace length, hitting just below the collarbone. It’s versatile and works well with many necklines.
- Matinee (20-24 inches): A matinee necklace rests above the bust, making it ideal for more formal settings or when you want to create an elongated look.
- Opera (28-36 inches): The opera-length necklace falls below the bust and can be worn long or doubled up for a layered effect.
- Rope (36+ inches): This ultra-long necklace can be looped or knotted for a dramatic and elegant look.
Matching Necklace Length with Necklines
Each neckline has its style and shape, and the right necklace can enhance its beauty. Here’s how to choose the perfect necklace length for popular necklines.
V-Neck
Best Necklace Length for V-Necklines
A V-neckline naturally creates a plunging effect, making it one of the easiest necklines to pair with a necklace. The ideal necklace length for a V-neck mimics the shape of the neckline itself.
Recommended Length: A necklace that is 17-19 inches long (princess length) or shorter works best with a V-neck. A pendant or an Intersecting cross necklace that creates a “V” shape complements this neckline perfectly.
Necklaces to Avoid with V-Necks
Avoid long, round necklaces or chokers, as they contrast with the sharpness of a V-neckline and can break the natural flow of the outfit.
Scoop Neck
Best Necklace Length for Scoop Necklines
Scoop necklines are versatile and reveal a lot of space around the neck and chest, making them perfect for showcasing a statement necklace. A necklace that fills in this open space enhances the overall look.
- Recommended Length: Go for a shorter, bold necklace like a choker or princess-length necklace (14-19 inches). Chunky or layered necklaces work well to complement the open nature of the scoop neckline.
Necklaces to Avoid with Scoop Necks
Avoid necklaces that are too long (opera or rope lengths), as they may make the neckline look unbalanced or overwhelm the overall style.
Strapless Neckline
Best Necklace Length for Strapless Necklines
A strapless neckline leaves the entire neck and shoulder area exposed, offering a great opportunity to play with different necklace lengths. The key is to ensure that the necklace highlights the collarbone and adds elegance.
- Recommended Length: A choker (14-16 inches) or a shorter princess-length necklace will draw attention to the collarbone without overwhelming the strapless design.
Necklaces to Avoid with Strapless Necklines
Long necklaces (opera or rope length) can detract from the beauty of the neckline. Keep it simple and close to the neck for the best effect.
High Neck or Turtleneck
Best Necklace Length for High Necklines
High necklines, such as turtlenecks, provide a sleek canvas that can be beautifully enhanced with longer necklaces. Since there is limited skin exposure around the neck, the necklace should elongate the torso and add elegance to the outfit.
- Recommended Length: Choose longer necklaces such as opera or rope length (28 inches or more) to create a vertical line and balance out the high neckline.
Necklaces to Avoid with High Necks
Avoid chokers or short necklaces, as they will compete with the neckline and look cluttered.
Boat Neck
Best Necklace Length for Boat Necklines
A boat neckline runs horizontally across the collarbone, leaving little space for necklaces to rest naturally. The goal here is to avoid necklaces that clash with the wide neckline.
- Recommended Length: Opt for a long necklace (opera or rope length) to elongate the torso and add a sense of height to the overall look.
Necklaces to Avoid with Boat Necks
Chokers and short necklaces may interfere with the wide design of a boat neck and create an overly busy look.
Tips for Accessorizing with Necklaces
Keep the Occasion in Mind
While some necklace lengths are ideal for casual wear, others are better suited for formal events. For example, shorter, delicate necklaces are great for everyday wear, while longer, statement necklaces work well for formal or evening wear.
Consider Your Body Type
The right necklace length can also flatter your body type. If you’re petite, shorter necklaces help keep your proportions balanced. On the other hand, longer necklaces can help elongate the neck and torso, making them ideal for taller or fuller figures.
Experiment with Layering
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different necklace lengths. Layering necklaces of varying lengths can add depth and style to your outfit, especially when paired with a simple or neutral neckline.
Conclusion
Choosing the right necklace length for your neckline can make all the difference in completing your outfit. Whether you’re looking to accentuate a V-neck, balance out a high neckline, or add elegance to a strapless dress, selecting the right length will ensure that your necklace complements your style perfectly.
