Choosing the Perfect Necklace for Your Neckline

Necklaces are a timeless item that can instantly transform any outfit. But, with so many necklace alternatives, how can you know which one is best for your neckline? The neckline of your top or dress can have a significant impact on the appearance of a necklace. Use this guide to select necklace silhouettes, lengths, and styles that will look great with your neckline.

V-Necklines

V-neck tops and dresses reveal a bit of décolletage, making them ideal for showcasing necklaces. The plunging V shape leaves the collarbone and chest area exposed.

Pendant Necklaces

Pendant necklaces with a single stone, jewel, or charm are ideal for V-necks. Choose pendants according to the depth of the V. Large statement pendants look well with deep V-necks. On shallow V-necks, little pendants look great.

Layered Necklaces

For a trendy layered look, pair short and long necklaces together over a V-neck. You can mix different metals, gems, and textures. Just keep the longer necklace about 20 inches or shorter so it doesn’t get lost.

Scoop Necklines

Wide, curved U-shaped necklines characterize scoop neck tops and dresses. The scooped design accentuates the collarbone while covering the majority of the chest.

Collar Necklaces

Collar necklaces, also called chokers, rest high on the neck to highlight a scoop neckline. Opt for slim, sleek collar necklaces around 12-14 inches long. Avoid overly bulky choker necklaces that might overwhelm the collarbone area.

Rope, Chain, and Princess Length Necklaces

For scoop necklines, also consider princess length (17-19 inches), rope length (20-24 inches), or chain link necklaces. These medium lengths will add pretty accent without competing with the neckline itself.

High Necklines

Turtlenecks, mock necks, and other high necklines are worn near to the neck. While it is difficult, it is possible to wear necklaces with high necklines.

Chokers and Collars

The best option for high necks is a slim choker or collar necklace. Resting at the base of the neck helps the choker stand out instead of getting lost under the fabric.

Lariats and Extenders

Try a lariat necklace with a slide adjuster or extender chain to customize the length as needed. Allow the lariat to hang a bit lower than the neckline so the necklace is visible.

Bold Statement Necklaces

Go big and bold with high necklines. An big statement necklace with brilliant stones or large linked chains can provide a splash of color to an ensemble. Petite necklaces that may disappear beneath the neckline should be avoided.

Off-the-Shoulder Necklines

Off-the-shoulder tops and strapless dresses draw attention to the shoulder and décolletage area.

Collar Necklaces

Collar necklaces are ideal for highlighting bare shoulders by framing the collarbone and neck area. Choose slender, simple shapes or chain link chokers.

Shoulder Dusting Length

Try shoulder dusting necklaces that graze right along the tops of the shoulders around 16-18 inches long. This length will complement the exposed skin beautifully.

Dramatic Statement Pieces

Off-the-shoulder styles present the perfect opportunity to wear dramatic statement necklaces. Large pendants, layered chains, and jeweled bibs can shine without distraction.

One-Shoulder Necklines

One-shoulder tops and dresses are asymmetrical with one shoulder exposed.

Asymmetrical Necklaces

Make an asymmetrical necklace to match the asymmetrical neckline. Look for necklaces with just one pendant, chain, or strap.

Sideways Styling

Style a standard symmetrical necklace diagonally to accentuate the one-shoulder look. Allow the necklace to hang lower on the bare shoulder side.

Sweetheart Necklines

A lovely open curve along the collarbone is what distinguishes sweetheart necklines. This gorgeous heart shape draws attention to the neck and face.

Short Pendant Necklaces

A short pendant on a 14-16 inch chain is perfect for sweetheart necklines. Allow the pendant to rest gracefully along the open curves of the neckline.

Y-Shaped Drop Necklaces

Try a Y-shaped necklace with a delicate chain that drops below the hollow of the collarbone for a pretty, elegant look.

Work Appropriate Styles

Choose something simple and elegant for the office while shopping for a necklace. Pearl necklaces or thin chains with a minimalist pendant are polished and sophisticated. Stick to simple metallics or geometric forms without a lot of embellishment if you want to make a statement with your necklace. Don’t wear anything with too many crystals or a dramatic bib silhouette unless you’re going out for the evening. Thin, rather than thick, chokers are best, and plunging necklines should be avoided. The idea is to accessorize in a professional way that doesn’t detract from your overall appearance.

Conclusion

Consider the neckline’s shape, the necklace’s length and silhouette, and the area you wish to highlight while making your selection. Instead of competing with the neckline, the necklace should accentuate it. If you follow these guidelines, you’ll be able to select a necklace that will look stunning on any neck. With so many stunning alternatives, you can feel comfortable accessorizing any outfit with a necklace.

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