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Choosing the right necklace length can really make an outfit and is an important factor to consider when you're putting one together. Necklace lengths can even enhance your face Shape. Every neck is different so it's advisable to measure your own before buying or making a necklace for yourself. A standard length may be larger or smaller on you depending on your size. Lets look at necklace lengths in more detail...
This necklace length is used for collars which sit quite high on the neck. It's often used for children's jewellery too.
A very popular length for necklaces as it sits perfectly around the collarbone. This length suits both full beaded chains/strings and fine chain with a delicate pendant.
Probably the most common necklace length next to the 16 inch. 18 inch necklaces drape comfortably on the average size neck and are very popular for adding pendants to. For larger neck sizes, this length will sit more like a choker around the collarbone.
A collar necklace is the shortest necklace length ranging from 12"-14" and sits high up on the neck above the collarbone. It's important to measure your neck before purchasing a collar as these can often be bought too small. Collars look stunning with v-neck/plunging necklines and off the shoulder garments.
Chokers are usually between 15" and 16"in length and sit beautifully around the collar bone on the average size neck. If you have a larger neck size, an 18" necklace will sit more like a choker; if your neck is smaller than average neck, a 15" length would be more suitable as a choker. Chokers are often seen as a single strand of either chain or a string of beads and as multiple layered strands. It's a really versatile length that compliments a wide variety of outfits.
Princess necklaces measure between 17" and 19"and are a very popular length as they compliment so many outfits, sizes and face Shapes. This is a great length for pearl necklaces and for adding pendants to.
Matinee necklaces range from 20-24 inches in length and are a popular length for the workplace as well as occasions or evenings out as they are large enough to fit over collared shirts and accentuate plunging necklines.
Opera necklaces are between 28-34 inches and are stunning with evening wear. They drape over clothing and hang below the bust line. The good thing about this length of necklace is that it can be worn long as a single strand or doubled up as a two stranded choker.
Any necklace length over 45 inches is classed as a lariat or rope necklace as it is sometimes known as. This length is long and designed to hang over the torso. Often seen with crystals and Pearls, lariats look stunning layered over co*cktail dresses as well as smart/casual day and evening wear.
Face Shape
Necklace length can be used to accentuate your facial features too. Varying lengths can affect how long, short, wide, narrow, angular or round your face looks.
Long necklaces such as Opera and Lariats are great for elongating a round face whereas chokers can sometimes accentuate and make round faces appear even more round.
Oval faces can generally carry off any necklace length with ease.
Rectangular and oblong face shapes can be softened and shortened by wearing shorter necklace lengths such as collars and chokers.
To soften and reduce the sharp angle of heart shaped faces, chokers and even princess lengths are perfect.
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As a seasoned enthusiast in the world of jewelry and beading, I've spent years immersed in the art and craftsmanship of creating beautiful accessories. My passion extends beyond mere appreciation; it involves a deep understanding of the intricate details that contribute to the elegance of necklaces. I've not only studied various necklace lengths extensively but have also applied this knowledge hands-on, creating bespoke pieces tailored to individual preferences.
In the realm of necklace lengths, precision is paramount. The choice of length can transform an outfit and enhance facial features, making it a crucial factor in the design process. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Collar Necklace (12"-14"):
- Sits high on the neck, above the collarbone.
- Popular for children's jewelry.
- Ideal for v-neck or plunging necklines.
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Choker Necklace (15"-16"):
- Sits around the collarbone.
- Versatile, seen as a single strand or multiple layered strands.
- Adaptable to different neck sizes.
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Princess Necklace (17"-19"):
- Compliments various outfits, sizes, and face shapes.
- Suitable for pearl necklaces and pendants.
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Matinee Necklace (20"-24"):
- Popular for the workplace and occasions.
- Large enough to fit over collared shirts.
- Accentuates plunging necklines.
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Opera Necklace (28"-34"):
- Stunning with evening wear.
- Can be worn long as a single strand or doubled up as a two-stranded choker.
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Lariat or Rope Necklace (45" and above):
- Designed to hang over the torso.
- Often features crystals and pearls.
- Suitable for layering over co*cktail dresses or smart/casual wear.
Face Shape and Necklace Length:
- Long necklaces like Opera and Lariats elongate round faces.
- Oval faces can carry off any necklace length effortlessly.
- Rectangular and oblong faces benefit from shorter lengths like collars and chokers.
- Heart-shaped faces can soften angles with chokers and princess lengths.
Understanding the interplay between necklace lengths and face shapes empowers individuals to make informed choices, ensuring that their jewelry not only complements their attire but also enhances their unique features. This knowledge is invaluable when crafting or selecting the perfect necklace for any occasion.
