Whoever thought picking out a necklace could be so difficult? There are a bewildering array of lengths to choose from. The secret to picking the perfect necklace length is balance. A low neckline may require a shorter chain, while a turtleneck or high-necked top looks better with a longer chain.
Most Popular Necklace Lengths
According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), standard industry lengths for chains and necklaces are (in inches): 16, 18, 20, 24. 30, and 36.
Often, different necklace lengths and styles are marketed using these terms: collar; choker; princess; matinee; opera; and rope. Although there is some discrepancy among retailers regarding the lengths of each style, here are approximate lengths in inches for each type:
Standard traditional necklace lengths include:
- collar: less than 16"
- choker: 16-18"
- princess: 18-20"
- matinee: 20-24"
- opera: 24-36"
- rope: more than 36"
Shorter Necklaces: How to Wear Collars and Chokers
According to the GIA's Jewelry Essentials text, a choker is a tight-fitting necklace that "hugs" the throat and draws attention to the face and neckline. A similar short style, the collar, is a wider necklace that is worn just above the collarbone.
These shorter length necklaces work best with a lower cut dress or top. A collar or choker looks chic for everyday wear when paired with a top with a lower neckline, while an elegant chain or strand of pearls goes well with a party dress with a plunging neckline.
When purchasing a collar or choker, consider neck size. A 16" chain fits close around the average neck while an 18" necklace will give a slightly looser fit. A larger neck may require a slightly longer chain.
The Princess Necklace
According to merchant QVC, the 20" princess necklace is the most popular-selling length. This mid-sized necklace goes with just about any outfit, dressy or casual, from a turtleneck to a plunging neckline. It can be worn alone or with a pendant.
The princess necklace’s versatility makes it a good choice for a gift. Most women can wear this length and it looks great on women of any age.
What to Wear with Long Necklaces
Turtlenecks, cowl necks and regular necked tees often look best with a longer necklace. Longer necklaces range from the matinee necklace, which rests slightly below the collarbone, to the opera style, or even longer rope necklaces that hang way below the neckline.
The matinee necklace is traditionally worn in the daytime with a business suit. The longer opera length necklace is often worn as a double-strand and is a popular evening choice.
When choosing a necklace for yourself or as a gift for a friend, to get just the right look consider the occasion, type of clothing usually worn, and overall personal style.
