What Necklace To Wear With What Neckline (With Cheat Sheet) (2023)

Finding the right necklace to match your outfit, or more specifically your neckline, can be quite difficult. In fact, it’s essentially a form of art, with a careful mixture of science. You should feel free to explore your creativity, however, there are some good rules to follow to make sure your necklace compliments your neckline.

Everyone’s been in a situation where you get your perfect outfit for the day, only to realize that none of your necklaces go well with what you are wearing…or at the very least, you aren’t sure which one looks best.

In this article, we will explain exactly what necklace to wear with what neckline via a simple necklace neckline cheat sheet.

Choosing necklaces for necklines doesn’t have to be difficult. We are here to help.

Let’s get started…

What Necklace To Wear With What Neckline (With Cheat Sheet) (1)

Why necklines matter

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that necklaces and necklines are equally important elements and they go hand in hand. Some necklaces simply go better with certain necklines while others can totally throw off your appearance.

Therefore, when you buy necklaces, you should always keep in mind your wardrobe and what kind of shirt or dress you plan to wear it with.

Things to consider:

  • Shirt and necklace color
  • Necklace length
  • Makeup
  • Hairstyle.

In this world of ever-flowing options, it is easy to find the perfect accessory but it can also be overwhelming(…not to mention costly if you want to have a wide selection to choose from every day).

With that being said, don’t overthink it, just follow the tips in this article, use your creativity, and don’t ever be afraid to be yourself and rock what you love.

Now, before we get into what necklaces to wear with what necklines, let’s discuss the different types of necklaces so there is no confusion.

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Different Necklaces & Lengths

Here are a few types of necklaces and their lengths & style.

Choker

A choker, as the name suggests, is a necklace or band of fabric that fits very closely around the neck. These are the shortest length necklaces you will find (obviously, as any shorter and they’d be bracelets). They are usually around 14-16 inches long (or should I say…”short”). They should fit high, towards the middle of your neck, without any hang. Chokers are super in right now, as you’ve likely noticed.

Princess necklace

A princess necklace is around 18-20 inches long. This is one of the most common sizes for necklaces. The necklace will fall a bit below your neck, resting nicely on your collar bone. They work incredibly well with pendants and diamonds.

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Matinee necklace

Resting just at the bust line, a matinee necklace is around 22-23 inches in length. This necklace super versatile in its design and pairing for clothing.

Opera necklace

An opera necklace ranges from 26-36 inches long, resting perfectly around the breastbone. It can be worn as a single or double strand. If knotted up, it really gives off a vintage style. They are meant to hangover clothing, not under.

Rope Necklace

A rope necklace is any necklace longer than Opera necklace length. They can rest as far as your belly button and they are often made with beads or chains. Note: A lariat is a longer variation of the rope, but without the clasp. A lariat can be crossed or doubled over, knotted, or looped in a variety of ways.

Bib necklace

Although a bib necklace isn’t one of the main classifications of necklaces, we are adding it here because it is trending hot right now. Bib necklaces usually are made with multiple layers of beads, bobbles or precious stones and metals. They sit higher up than princess necklaces, just above or on the collarbone. A bib necklace is an incredibly eye-catching and ultra feminine, offering a grandeur appearance that works when dressing casually or formally.

Of course, colors and materials play a big role as well. We won’t get into all of that because it’ll be quite in-depth and the most important factors will be explained below. Nevertheless, be creative with colors and materials as you please, you are a creative, empowered woman after all.

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Necklace neckline cheat sheet

V-neck

V-necks naturally pull people’s eyes to the cleavage area. Therefore, it is best that your necklace does the same.

Pendants and princess necklaces are a classic option for a v-neck. A pendant necklace is very compatible as it creates the same V shape, especially a pendant with a sharper, triangle shape.

The necklace should end just about an inch above your neckline, this is a good rule of thumb. You don’t want the pendant to be over the neckline or too short.

Furthermore, the wider the v-neck, the bigger the pendant, and vice versa. This creates proportion, which is what you want.

Avoid any necklace that doesn’t compliment the V shape, such as bib necklaces. Asymmetric necklaces and round shapes will throw off the look and appear out of place too.

What Necklace To Wear With What Neckline (With Cheat Sheet) (5)

18k White Gold 22ctw Graduated Diamond Tennis Necklace

Boatneck

Boatneck shirts and dresses have a broad neckline, stretching wide across the collarbone. They are a very graceful neckline, requiring a necklace that is similarly just as graceful.

Necklaces that suit a boatneck are ones that won’t distract from the neckline. Elegant, minimalist necklaces are best. Moreover, princess necklaces that are either one or two string, or beads, are perfect companions for this neckline. Additionally, pearl necklaces that rest past the neckline are wonderfully tasteful and ideal thanks to the ladylike appeal. Asymmetrical necklaces with multi-strands can be a good option too.

It’s best to avoid snazzy, flashy or bold statement type necklaces when wearing a boatneck. It’s also smart to stay away from any necklace that is shorter than the neckline. Chokers definitely aren’t a good choice. Furthermore, necklaces that will fall under your neckline should be avoided.

Off the shoulder

Off the shoulder tops and dresses can be either bandeau or Bardot. Bandeaus are sleeveless and more of a young and sexy look and the necklines usually rest just above the cleavage. Bardot’s are with sleeves and more of a sensual and sophisticated look, and the necklines are likely to flaunt décolletage.

The best choices for an off the shoulder neckline are short necklaces, such as chokers and short pendants as well as statement pieces and asymmetric necklaces, allowing you décolletage to remain the focal point of your outfit.

With that being said, long necklaces work well with Bardot necklines too, such as beaded necklaces. However, if you have a bandeau style off the shoulder neckline, we highly recommend keeping to short necklaces as long necklaces create an imbalanced appearance with bandeau necklines.

Collared shirt or button down

Collared shirts are quite flexible in terms of what kind of necklaces you can wear with them, surprisingly. It makes sense if you think about it, though – It all really depends on how many buttons are done up. You can create completely unique looks simply by buttoning it differently and changing up your style of necklace.

We love to match up our collar shirts with bib necklaces worn over the fully buttoned button up. It offers a conservative yet fun appearance. Additionally, a choker style works if you have a long neck.

Another go-to option is leaving a couple buttons undone, which makes it essentially a V-neck and then the same rules apply from the v-neck section. Avoid any necklaces that are too wide, as there really isn’t enough space for them.

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Turtleneck or high crew/sweater

When it comes to turtlenecks or high crew shirts and sweaters, long necklaces like rope and lariat necklaces look amazing. The high collar with the long necklaces draws the eyes down and lengthens the body. Turtlenecks make for the perfect layering piece and it’s super simple to just throw one on underneath a coat or dress then place a gorgeous long necklace over your head and be on your way. Let that necklace swang’!

Long necklaces aren’t the only options, however. Small, light pendants work as well and bibs work for a crew neckline nicely.

Halter or one shoulder

A lot of women think no necklace, or should we say neckless, is the best choice for a halter or one shoulder top. This is especially true for halter tops that sit high up near your neck.

Nonetheless, you do have options. If your halter top produces a similar neckline as a v-neck, which some do, then the same rules apply. If it has a more rounded neckline, then wear a small, short pendant or a choker even. Either two will draw attention away from your chest and to your neck. You can also wear a longer necklace to draw attention to your stomach.

Strapless, low cut or tube top

Chokers go beautifully with strapless necklines. They will pull the focus to your neck rather than your stomach.

You can also go for shorter pendants in princess length for any of the three tops to keep the focus on your collarbone while accentuating your neck. This is especially nice for women with collarbones that pop.

It’s always best to avoid any necklace that will cover and take away from your décolletage.

Scoop neck

Scoop necklines have a deep curve and wide neckline. This kind of neckline is the easiest for choosing necklaces, as they go well with a wide variety of styles and lengths.

A good choice will be one that takes up that open space. A necklace with volume, layers or multiple strands will look fantastic.

As versatile as they are, you should keep away from necklaces that fall below the neckline of the scoop or necklaces that are so tiny they barely take up any of that large space from your neck to neckline. This means chokers and very short pendants.

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Asymmetrical necklines

Asymmetrical or uneven necklines go well with asymmetric necklaces. Makes sense right? They complete the overall asymmetrical look. A necklace with different shapes of beads could be very nice for this kind of neckline.

Play it safe by wearing a choker or a pendant necklace that falls above the neckline. You can play it even safer and wear no necklace, which is something many women opt to do when wearing asymmetrical tops or dresses. A simple dangling earring will be more than enough to complete the elegant look of the asymmetrical neckline dress.

Sweetheart neckline

A sweetheart neckline accentuates your neck, shoulder and usually the upper breast. A necklace that follows this effect is ideal. A necklace with a wider style pendant will create balance to the open space. Although, small petite pendants work as well.

Go for curvy and soft angles rather than sharp, hard angles. Moreover, choker and princess necklaces are much better than long rope or opera length necklaces.

Square neckline

Pendants with rigid angles go well with square necklines, they make for a nice harmonized look. Any length will work just so long as it isn’t past your neckline. A good necklace length will fall somewhere above the neckline. You want to avoid a necklace that falls below your neckline as it will not match and it could make you appear shorter, while also drawing attention away from your neck and chest.

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More tips for choosing the right necklace for your neckline:

  • Be creative and be yourself.
  • Don’t be afraid to try out different combos to find what looks good with your existing wardrobe and necklace collection.
  • Layer multiple necklaces to see how it looks, you might just create an amazing look.
  • Go for simple styles during the day and fancier, more intricate styles for nights out. The time of the day makes a big difference, so does the occasion.
  • Don’t just consider the neckline, take the outfit as a whole into account. This means colors and patterns. If your clothing is bold and unique, go for a simpler necklace, and vice versa.
  • Consider buying an adjustable necklace. They can adjust to the exact length you want and they are some of the hottest options in the industry right now.
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Buy necklaces at Diamonds by Raymond Lee in Boca Raton

If you a looking for fine, high-end necklaces for your wonderful wardrobe full of different necklines, Diamonds by Raymond Lee offers a wide range of gorgeous necklaces in various length and styles. We can help you choose the best necklace for any neckline, so you can create the most stunning look that will astonish your friends and loved ones while giving you a look of prestige that can’t be beaten. Our prices are super competitive and the quality and service unparalleled. You can shop online or come into our boutique showroom in South Florida’s city of Boca Raton any time. We look forward to hearing from you!

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FAQs

How do I choose a necklace to match my neckline? ›

Make sure the necklace is not too small or too large for the neckline. If you have a larger neck, go for a necklace with a longer chain or pendant. If you have a smaller neck, choose a necklace with a shorter chain or pendant. You can also experiment with different necklace lengths to find what looks best on you.

What kind of necklace to wear with a sweetheart neckline? ›

These are the best necklaces to pair with a sweetheart neckline
  • Princess length necklace. One of the best necklaces that go with a sweetheart neckline is a princess length necklace. ...
  • Choker. With a sweetheart neckline, one the most obvious choice for a necklace is a choker. ...
  • Chain with a delicate drop.
Aug 23, 2022

How do you pick the right shape of a necklace? ›

Before purchasing any necklace, take the time to measure around your neck and down to the focal point you prefer. Using a string or another necklace is an easy way to do this. Write down your measurement. For chokers, add two inches to your neck measurement for a comfortable length.

Should you wear a necklace with a sweetheart neckline? ›

Sweetheart Necklines: Medium length pendants or medium length drop necklaces perfectly accent the dip in a sweetheart neckline. Simple necklaces, earrings, and bracelets tend to work best with sweetheart necklines, since this dress style has a delicate, romantic look.

What is the most flattering necklace length? ›

What is the Most Flattering Necklace Length? The standard necklace measures 16 inches (choker length). This length is flattering on all women and it usually falls on the clavicle.

Should you wear a necklace with a high neckline? ›

High necklines don't leave much room for necklaces, so make your other jewelry pieces the point of focus. Statement earrings are the ideal jewelry for a high-neck dress, and you can complete the ensemble with a bracelet, if you like.

Should I wear a necklace with a plunging neckline? ›

A plunging neckline should only be enhanced with a necklace, and an extra-long pendant necklace will maintain the drama and sexy feel of the overall look.

What neckline looks best with a choker? ›

Chokers pair best with strapless necklines. That is because chokers draw attention to your neck and away from your stomach. If you don't have a chocker, you can go for shorter pendants, as a strapless outfit can also be the perfect moment to show your style.

What necklace to wear with a cowl neckline? ›

Pair a cowl neckline with a short choker necklace or short pendant chain. The idea is to have a subtle sparkle behind the cowl neckline that will brighten up your frame.

What is the perfect chain length? ›

After a measurement is obtained, its a good idea to opt for a necklace size that is at least the second size up from your neck size. For example, if you have an 18 inch neck, you should probably choose a chain length of 20 inches or more. An 18 inch chain would feel too tight.

What is the best chain length for a woman? ›

The most common women's necklace chain length is 18 inches. This size fits the average sized woman. Refer to the chart above for more details about they types of necklines that go best with different length necklace chains.

Are longer or shorter necklaces better? ›

A long necklace tends to overwhelm a smaller frame. Women who fall between the height of 5'4” to 5'7” can wear necklace of any length. Taller women who are 5'7” or above can wear any length necklace. Longer chain style necklaces look best on taller women as they accentuate a tall frame.

What necklace to wear with a scoop neck top? ›

A scoop neckline emphasises the collarbone, so ideally, choose a short, round necklace to further enhance it. A scoop neckline is the ideal setting for a statement piece, such as a bib necklace. You can also wear longer necklaces with this style, as long as your necklace doesn't hang below the neckline of your garment.

Should you wear necklace with off-shoulder? ›

It's very important to have the right kind of jewellery to wear with your off-shoulder dress. It should compliment and complete the look without clashing. You can really kick things up a notch when your ensemble is perfect. You'll look stunning and effortless, making you shine like a diamond.

What does a sweetheart neckline do? ›

The definition: sweetheart neckline

The round arches cover the breasts, with the V shape falls between them. This neckline creates an illusion of slimmer shoulders and enhances the bust in the right place. Even with many other necklines (square, straight, halter, etc.), the sweetheart neckline remains a popular choice.

What is the most popular necklace chain length? ›

Women's necklaces usually range between 16 inches and 20 inches, with the most popular length measuring at 18 inches. The way the necklace rests will be determined by the unique shape of a women's body – so we recommend taking in factors like neck size and torso length.

What is the average size necklace chain for a woman? ›

18": An 18" necklace falls right about at the collarbone and is the most popular chain length among women.

How thick should a woman's necklace be? ›

As a rule of thumb, average chain width for women is around 1mm and the most common styles are cable, rope, and wheat chains.

How do you accessorize a high neck top? ›

Accessorizing a High Neckline

If you're wearing a top with a high neckline, you want to wear your hair in a way that showcases your neck. Pull your hair up into a ponytail or a topknot for a more dramatic look. For a softer feel, wear your hair in a bun at the nape of your neck.

Do necklaces make your neck look smaller? ›

Wear Long Necklaces

Just as an open or long neckline will flatter a shorter neck, so will a long necklace. The vertical line of a long chain will give you an instant lengthening effect.

Who should wear a sweetheart neckline? ›

For those with smaller busts, it gives the illusion of curves without feeling overdone. A sweetheart neckline lengthens a shorter neck while adding roundness to those with square jaws. Because of this flattering style, it's a common pick for wedding and cocktail dresses – but don't neglect it for daily wear either!

Is it tacky to wear a necklace over a turtleneck? ›

You can style up your turtleneck with gold plated necklaces of different lengths and texture to add a modern twist to your look. Layering necklaces will also glam up your outfit, and it's the perfect way to take a simple turtleneck from day to night.

How do you hide cleavage in a deep neck dress? ›

Layer a thin camisole under your dress for maximum coverage. Opt for a camisole in a similar shade to your dress if you don't want it to stand out too much. Add a statement necklace to bring attention to your jewelry rather than your chest.

Can you wear a choker and a necklace at the same time? ›

Let it rest loosely on your neck instead for an effortless style. Do pair your choker with a long necklace. Because yes, more is just enough! But when you do layer your necklaces, make sure your choker is the most prevalent.

When should you not wear chokers? ›

Avoid wearing chokers when you're wearing clothes with high necklines since they might snag your clothing and cause your neckline to look bulky.

Do choker necklaces make you look thinner? ›

Accessorizing it wrong

Wearing necklaces which are tighter around your neck like choker, will shorten your neck making you look smaller and wider. Instead opt for long necklaces.

What does a cowl neck look like? ›

Cowl Necklines are when a garment has draped, rounded folds around the neckline, which falls below the collarbone. Cowl necklines became popular in the 1930s, although they are thought to have been inspired by the fashions of Ancient Greece.

What body type does cowl neck look good on? ›

Cowlnecks flatter both large and small bustlines and work with most face shapes. Lighter-weight cowlnecks are the easiest to wear because bulky fabrics make your neck look shorter.

Can you wear a necklace with a cowl neck dress? ›

Necklace for a cowl neckline

A short and simple pendant will look nice and clean. But if your cowl neck is large or high, you may want to opt for earrings instead of a necklace. If this neckline is soft and subtle, choose a simple princess-length necklace.

How do you know if a necklace will fit you? ›

Measure your neck.

Make a mental note of your measurement and take it into account when selecting a length. For chokers, add two inches to whatever your neck measurement is for a comfortable fit. Adding four inches to your neck measurement will give you a good length for an average necklace, like a pendant.

How do you match a wedding dress with a necklace? ›

Match your necklace to your neckline.

If you are going to wear a necklace, Hartman says the general rule of thumb is to pick one that follows the neckline of your dress. V-necks work best with a pendant; chokers and statement necklaces go better with strapless and sweetheart necklines.

References

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