When it comes to selecting the perfect necklace, length plays a crucial role in how it complements your outfit, neckline, and personal style. Whether you’re looking for something bold and eye-catching or simple and elegant, understanding necklace lengths can help you make the best choice. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right necklace length, so you can find the perfect fit for any occasion.

Why Necklace Length Matters

The length of a necklace can drastically change the way it looks on you and how it pairs with different outfits. A shorter necklace, like a choker, might give off a casual vibe, while a longer chain can add drama and elegance to an evening look. Your personal style, body type, and even the occasion will affect which necklace length is right for you.

At Links of Italy, we offer a range of necklace lengths in our sterling silver and gold-plated collections, ensuring you can find the ideal piece for every style and occasion. Let’s explore how to choose the best necklace length for women and how it can transform your entire look.

Common Necklace Lengths and What They Suit Best

Understanding standard necklace lengths is the first step in choosing the right piece for your collection. Here’s a necklace length chart for reference:

• Choker (14-16 inches): Sits snugly around the neck and works well with open necklines, such as off-the-shoulder tops or V-necks. Chokers are great for casual, chic looks and can also be layered with longer necklaces for a trendy, modern style.
• Princess (17-19 inches): This is the most common necklace length for women. It sits just above the collarbone, making it versatile for both casual and formal outfits. It pairs beautifully with crew necks, scoop necks, and V-neck tops, giving you flexibility in how you style it.
• Matinee (20-24 inches): A longer length that drapes over the bust, the matinee necklace is perfect for business or semi-formal occasions. It pairs well with high necklines and can elongate the look of your torso.
• Opera (26-36 inches): The opera necklace creates a dramatic effect when worn as a single strand or doubled up for a layered look. It works well with formal dresses or elegant evening attire, adding an air of sophistication to any outfit.
• Rope (36 inches and longer): This ultra-long necklace can be wrapped around multiple times or worn as a single dramatic piece. Rope necklaces are perfect for layering and adding flair to casual outfits or minimalist dresses.

How to Choose the Right Necklace Length for Your Neckline

The neckline of your outfit is a major factor in determining which necklace length will look best. Here’s a quick breakdown of the best necklace length for women based on various necklines:

• V-Neck: A V-neck pairs beautifully with a pendant necklace that mimics the shape of the neckline. Opt for a princess-length necklace (17-19 inches) to accentuate the neckline without overwhelming it.
• Crew Neck: Crew necklines work well with shorter necklaces that sit close to the neck, such as chokers or princess-length chains. A choker adds a chic touch to casual or business-casual outfits.
• Off-the-Shoulder: For off-the-shoulder tops, a choker or princess-length necklace works wonders. The open neckline leaves room for a bold statement piece that draws attention to your collarbone.
• Scoop Neck: With a scoop neckline, you have more flexibility. Both short and medium-length necklaces, such as princess or matinee, work well. A pendant necklace that falls just above the neckline can create a balanced look.
• Turtleneck: Longer necklaces, such as matinee or opera length, are ideal for turtlenecks. The extra length creates a balanced silhouette and adds visual interest to higher necklines.
• Strapless: For strapless tops or dresses, chokers are an excellent choice. They frame the neck and collarbone beautifully, giving you a refined, elegant look.

How to Choose Necklace Length for Different Body Types

Just as with clothing, necklace length can enhance your natural body shape. Here are some tips on how to choose the ideal necklace length for your body type:

• Petite Women: If you're petite, shorter necklaces like chokers and princess lengths (14-18 inches) will work best, as they won’t overwhelm your frame. These lengths help create balance and draw attention to the upper body.
• Taller Women: Taller women can pull off longer necklace lengths, such as matinee or opera lengths (24 inches and beyond). These lengths elongate the torso and add elegance to any look.
• Fuller Figures: If you have a fuller figure, consider necklaces that fall below the collarbone, such as matinee or opera lengths. Longer necklaces help create a more vertical line, which can be flattering for your silhouette.

Can You Change Necklace Length?

While many necklaces come in standard lengths, some designs may allow for adjustments. Links of Italy offers necklaces in various lengths, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your style. Some chains may also come with adjustable links, allowing you to customize the length to suit your preference.

How Necklace Length Is Measured

Necklace length is typically measured from end to end, including the clasp. When selecting the best necklace length for women, consider how the chain will drape around your neck and whether you prefer a tighter or looser fit.

What Necklace Length Should I Get?

When choosing a necklace length, think about your personal style, the occasions you'll be wearing it for, and how it complements your outfits and neckline. For everyday wear, a princess-length necklace is versatile enough to work with most outfits. For special occasions, opt for a longer chain, such as an opera or rope-length necklace, to make a statement.

What Necklace Length for Men?

While this guide is focused on women's necklace lengths, men also have several options. Standard lengths for men's chains range from 18 to 24 inches, with longer lengths being more casual and shorter lengths offering a more formal look. For men, a necklace that falls at or just below the collarbone (20 inches) is a great versatile choice.

Shop Necklace Lengths at Links of Italy

At Links of Italy, we offer a wide range of necklace lengths to suit every style and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic sterling silver choker or a bold gold-plated opera-length chain, our collection has something for everyone. Explore our full range of necklace lengths and find the perfect piece to elevate your style.