How to Choose the Right Necklace Length?

Determining the right necklace length is important to ensure that the necklace fits comfortably and looks good on you. Here are some tips to help you determine the right necklace length.

Measure your neck for the right necklace length

If possible, take the time to measure your neck before purchasing any necklace, and most importantly, a choker.

The easiest way to measure your neck is to gently take a soft measuring tape and wrap it closely around your neck. Whatever your neck measurement is, add two inches to that and that’s a comfortable length for chokers.

Usually, chokers are 16 inches long. Add four inches to your measurement, and that’s a great length for a pendant or name necklace. 

An 18-inch chain is best for women as a pendant or name necklace.

Chokers work best for people with long necks, while short-necked individuals are better off staying away from them.

Think about your height when choosing necklace length

Your height is another factor to consider when choosing the perfect necklace to flatter your body type.

Women below 5’4” look best in 16 to 20-inch necklace lengths. A long necklace tends to overwhelm a smaller frame.

Women who fall between the height of 5’4” to 5’7” can wear the 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.

Consider your body type when selecting a necklace length

People’s eyes will stop at the point where your necklace ends. So if you don’t want them to look at that part, avoid necklaces that end there.

For women with a smaller bust, a long, thin chain, or long, the layered chain would look great on you.

The kind of necklace that sits below the breast line should be avoided by full-figured women, as this length necklace will not hang properly. Instead, try a necklace that sits slightly higher on the body, such as an 18- to 22-inch necklace.

Consider face shape when choosing the necklace’s length

Another purpose of necklaces, aside from being an accessory, is that they actually help frame your face. As with body type, a necklace can help you accentuate your strongest facial features and alter the way your face is perceived by others.

Women with round faces should avoid short necklaces or chokers, as they will accentuate the roundness of their faces.

Those with oval-shaped faces can take advantage of any necklace fad since they can wear almost any shape, length, or type of necklace.

For those with a long-shape face who may want to broaden and soften the shape of their faces, should wear shorter necklaces. Short, round necklaces will keep from adding length. Look for choker and princess necklaces, measuring between 16” – 18”.

Heart-shaped faces look great with chokers or any short necklace, as they create the illusion of fullness and balance out a narrow chin.

Even if finding the right length is a hellish ordeal full of numbers, it’s ultimately a personal decision. If you have a round face and want to rock a choker, by all means, go for it.

However, sticking to the standards and general jewelry rules when it comes to necklaces will help you appear elegant and sophisticated. Jewelry can be versatile, so a necklace that’s the right length will enhance any outfit you wear it with.

Or, say goodbye to fixed-length necklaces completely and opt for an adjustable-length chain that can be set at any length you want for the perfect look no matter the situation.

FAQs about the necklace length

What is the most attractive necklace length?

The princess-length necklace (16-20 inches) is largely viewed as a classic and useful length. Longer necklace lengths, such as the matinée (20–24 inch) or opera (28–36 inch) lengths, are also popular for more dramatic ensembles or layering with shorter necklaces. Individual preferences and styles will determine the most popular necklace length.

What is a standard necklace length?

The most common necklace lengths for women are the choker length/style and the princess length/style.

Choker: 14–16 inches (35.5–40.6 cm), sitting close to the neck, just above the collarbone.

Princess: 16 to 18 inches (40.6-45.7 cm), falls below the collarbone.

How long is 45 cm necklace?

A necklace 45 cm long is approximately 17.7 inches long. This length of the necklace is a princess necklace.

How long of a necklace is 40 cm?

A necklace 40 cm long is approximately 15.7 inches long. This length of the necklace is a choker necklace.