Necklace Style Tips for Dresses
Dresses and necklaces are a timeless combination. The right necklace can elevate a simple dress or take a fancy dress to the next level. But how do you choose between so many necklace and dress options? To match necklaces flawlessly with any dress, use these tips on length, layering, and neckline pairing.
Pair Necklace Length to Dress Length
A key factor when styling a necklace with a dress is the length of each piece. Follow these guidelines:
- Short dresses: Opt for longer necklaces between 18-22 inches that hit below the bust or waist. Avoid shorter necklaces that stubbly end at the top of the dress.
- Mid-length dresses: Try a necklace between 16-20 inches that falls neatly within the dress length, not too high or low.
- Long and maxi dresses: Go for drama with necklaces 20 inches or longer. Big pendants work with long chain lengths. Chokers also contrast nicely.
- High or turtle neck dresses: Choose a choker, lariat, or V-necklace to adorn the neckline since a standard length would be hidden.
Layer Necklaces for Added Interest
One way to add dimension is by layering necklaces of different lengths and styles. Some combinations to try:
- Choker + Y-drop necklace
- Collar necklace + pendant
- Short chain + long chain
- Pearl strand + charm necklace
- Matching necklace set in graduating sizes
Mix metals, textures and lengths. Just avoid excessive layers that compete with the dress design.
Highlighting Assets
Finding the ideal necklace to complement your personal style is all about emphasizing your best features. Want to highlight your lovely neck and collarbone? Slim chokers or dainty pendants work well. Do you want something a little longer? Swingy necklaces will smoothly guide eyes down.
Not sure what to wear with a fuller bustline? Try shorter necklaces with a lot of personality, such as chunky beads or embellishments. These eye-catching details work in tandem to increase visual interest upwards. Do you want to minimize the top? The focus is kept fluid with higher necklines paired with understated pendants above the collar.
Match Necklines and Pendants
Consider necklace silhouettes that complement the specific neckline of your dress:
- Off the shoulder/strapless: Choose chokers or pendants that graze the collar bone. Longer lengths with no visible support should be avoided.
- V-neck: Highlight the shape of the neckline with a centered, proportional pendant.
- Sweetheart: Choose a delicate chain with a small eye-catching pendant.
- Halter: A choker draws the eye up while a Y-drop necklace complements the open back.
- High neck: A choker worn over the neckline provides contrast and accent.
Other Tips for Necklace and Dress Pairings
Choose simple necklaces that do not compete with printed or embellished dresses.
Match metals and materials for a unified look (for example, silver with silvery fabrics).
Shorter necklace clasps can be adjusted to sit higher or lower with necklines.
For low open-back dresses, try necklaces with visual interest in the back.
Necklaces can be used to draw attention to specific areas such as the waist, shoulders, or neckline.
Conclusion
Consider their combined length, layering potential, and how necklines and pendants can complement each other when styling necklaces with dresses. You can elevate any dress look to the next level of elegance with the right harmonious pairings. Use these tips to make your dresses sparkle!
FAQs
Style Tip: If in doubt, just wear a long pendant style necklace with your high neck outfit—you can’t go wrong there! We recommend a long piece that ranges from 24 to 36 inches—preferably below your bust and above your belly button.
You want to choose one piece that enhances the drama of your dress. Your necklace should provide a single focal point, giving the entire outfit a streamlined look. Collars and chokers are both good options for a straight, strapless neckline. 90s-style chokers are popular this year.
The Jewelry Matches the Occasion.
Busy Patterns and Simple Jewelry Go Hand-in-hand.
Use Statement Earrings to Highlight the Face.
Jewelry That Compliments Skin Tone.
Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.
White Pearls and Sea-Colored Clothes.
Gold, Black, and White.
Keep it neat. Make sure the styles are congruent so your necklace blends with the rest of your outfit.
Keep it simple with busy tops. Wear simple and long necklaces when your outfit has a lot going on to prevent a confusing look.
Don’t distract from your face.
Find your focus.
- Necklace Style for Square Necklines
- How Men Can Stylishly Wear Pearl Necklaces
- Necklace Style Tips for Strapless Dresses
- Necklace Style for High-Neck Dresses
- Styling a 22-Inch Chain Necklace
- Rocking Necklaces with Collared Shirts
- Men’s Fashion: How to Style 18-Inch Necklaces
- The Complete Guide to Layering Necklaces Without Tangling
- How to Layer Necklaces?