The Necklace Size Guide
When selecting the perfect necklace, size is more than just a number; it's a critical factor in how the piece complements your look and fits your lifestyle. The right necklace length can enhance your outfit, giving a flattering edge to your personal style. However, finding the ideal size can be challenging. Factors like your body type, neck size, and how you intend to wear the necklace are crucial in determining the best fit. Our comprehensive necklace size guide is designed to simplify this process, walking you through everything you need to know to choose the perfect necklace length. This will ensure that your jewellery looks beautiful and feels just right, giving you the confidence to express your unique style.
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How to Measure Your Bracelet Size
Method 1: Using a Favourite Necklace
If you have a necklace that you already love, you can easily measure its length to help guide your next purchase.
- Lay It flat: Place your necklace on a flat surface, fully extended.
- Measure the chain: Using a ruler or tape measure, measure from one end of the clasp to the other end of the necklace. Make sure to include an extender chain if the necklace has one.
- Record the length: Note the measurement in inches or centimetres. This is the total length of your necklace.
- Find the right necklace size in the chart below.
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Method 2: Measuring on Your Body
If you’re deciding on a new length, measuring directly on your body is a great way to ensure the perfect fit.
- Get a flexible tape measure or string: If you don’t have a flexible tape measure, use a piece of string or ribbon.
- Position it around your neck: Drape the tape measure or string around your neck, bringing the ends together where you’d like the necklace to sit.
- Adjust for pendants: If you plan to add a pendant, consider how much additional length it will add and adjust accordingly.
- Mark and measure: If using string, mark the point where the ends meet, then lay it flat and measure the length with a ruler.
- Record the length: Note the length you measured. This will be the ideal necklace length for your desired look.
- Find the right necklace size in the chart below.
The Necklace Size Chart
The below chart details common necklace lengths in both inches and centimetres. This chart will help you quickly compare and visualise how each length might look when worn.
| Necklace Length (inches) | Necklace Length (cm) | Position on Body |
|---|---|---|
| 14" | 35.5 cm | Fits tightly around the neck (Choker) |
| 16" | 40.5 cm | Sits at the base of the neck |
| 18" | 45.7 cm | Rests on the collarbone (Princess) |
| 20" | 50.8 cm | Falls just below the collarbone |
| 22" | 55.9 cm | Lays at or above the top of the bust |
| 24" | 61 cm | Sits mid-bust or just below |
| 30" | 76.2 cm | Falls at the mid-chest (Opera) |
| 36" | 91.4 cm | Falls just below the chest (Rope) |
How to Use the Necklace Size Chart
- Determine your desired look: First, consider the style you want to achieve. Are you aiming for a delicate, close-to-the-neck look, or do you prefer a longer, more dramatic chain?
- Match your body type: Use the chart to match necklace lengths with your body type. For example, shorter necklaces typically suit petite frames, while longer chains can elongate the appearance of the torso and are ideal for taller individuals.
- Consider your outfit: Think about the neckline of the clothes you plan to wear with the necklace. The chart can help you choose a length that complements your outfit, whether it’s a low-cut dress, a high neckline, or a simple t-shirt.
- Visualise layering: If you’re interested in layering multiple necklaces, use the chart to select lengths that create a balanced and stylish look.
Choosing the Right Necklace Length
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When selecting the perfect necklace length, several factors come into play to ensure the piece looks stunning and complements your unique features and style. Here’s what you should consider:
- Body Type: Your body shape can greatly influence how a necklace sits. For those with longer necks, chokers and shorter lengths (14-16 inches) can beautifully highlight this feature, while longer necklaces (24 inches or more) can help elongate a shorter torso. Petite individuals may find that shorter necklaces (16-18 inches) create a balanced, proportionate look, while taller or fuller-figured people might prefer medium to long lengths (20 inches and up) to create a more harmonious silhouette.
- Face Shape: The right necklace length can accentuate your facial structure. For example, a heart-shaped face can benefit from a princess-length necklace (18-20 inches), which softens the sharpness of the chin and balances the overall appearance. Round faces might prefer a longer necklace (22-24 inches) to add length and create a slimming effect, while oval faces can wear almost any length, but a choker can particularly emphasise the graceful shape.
- Personal Style: Your personal style plays a significant role in choosing the right necklace length. If you love layering, consider combining necklaces of varying lengths (e.g., a choker with a 20-inch and a 30-inch chain) to create a dynamic and stylish look. For those who prefer statement pieces, a single, longer necklace with a bold pendant can make a powerful impact. Simpler, shorter necklaces are ideal for a minimalist, elegant style.
- Occasion: Matching lengths to the event: The occasion often dictates the appropriate necklace length. For casual, everyday wear, a shorter necklace (16-18 inches) that sits comfortably at the collarbone may be ideal. For formal events, longer necklaces (24 inches or more) or those with intricate designs can add sophistication and drama to your outfit. When selecting a necklace for a special occasion, consider the dress code and how the necklace will complement your outfit.
Matching Necklace Length with Necklines
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Choosing the right necklace length is not just about personal preference, it’s also about ensuring that the necklace complements the neckline of your outfit. Here’s a detailed guide on how to match necklace lengths with various necklines for a polished and harmonious look:
Types of Necklaces by Length
Collar & Choker (14-16 inches / 35-40 cm)
Description: Collar necklaces sit snugly around the neck, while chokers rest closely at the base of the neck. These lengths are ideal for highlighting the neckline and collarbone, making them a striking choice for those who want to draw attention to this area.
Styling tips: Collar and choker necklaces are perfect for pairing with off-the-shoulder tops, strapless dresses, or anything that leaves the neck and shoulders exposed. They give off a chic, elegant vibe and can be worn alone for a minimalist look or layered with longer necklaces for added drama.
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Princess (18-20 inches / 45-50 cm)
Description: The Princess length is one of the most popular and versatile necklace lengths. It typically falls just below the collarbone, making it suitable for a wide range of necklines and occasions.
Styling Tips: This length works well with almost any outfit, from casual to formal. It’s a great choice for showcasing a pendant or other focal point, and it complements necklines such as scoop, V-neck, and sweetheart. The Princess length is a go-to option for those who want a necklace that’s neither too short nor too long, making it easy to wear daily.
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Matinee (20-24 inches / 50-60 cm)
Description: Matinee necklaces are medium-length chains that typically fall at the bust or above. This length is ideal for those who want a slightly longer necklace that can still be worn comfortably with most necklines.
Styling Tips: Matinee necklaces are perfect for layering, as they can add depth and interest when combined with shorter chains. They work beautifully with high necklines and can add a touch of elegance to business or evening wear. This length is also a great option for wearing with pendants, as it places the pendant in a flattering position.
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Opera (24-34 inches / 60-85 cm)
Description: Opera-length necklaces are long and dramatic, often falling at or just below the bust. This length is ideal for making a statement, whether worn alone or layered.
Styling Tips: Opera necklaces are perfect for adding sophistication to evening wear. They can be worn in a single strand for a classic look or doubled up for a layered, choker-like effect. This length pairs well with high necklines and can be used to create a dramatic, elongated silhouette. It’s also a popular choice for adding a bold pendant or medallion.
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Rope (36-42 inches / 85-105 cm)
Description: Rope necklaces are the longest common necklace length, typically falling well below the bust, often to the mid-torso. This length offers a lot of versatility in styling.
Styling Tips: Rope necklaces can be worn creatively. Double them to create a layered look, or knot them to form a stylish lariat. They are perfect for adding drama and sophistication to any outfit, particularly when paired with simple, understated clothing. Rope necklaces are also ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with their jewellery, as the length allows for multiple styling options.
By understanding the different types of necklaces by length, you can choose the right one for your style and occasion, whether you’re looking for something subtle and elegant or bold and dramatic.
The Necklace Collection at Pragnell
Our collection includes a diverse range of designs, from contemporary pendants that add a modern touch to any outfit to classic chokers that evoke timeless elegance. Each necklace is expertly crafted with the utmost attention to detail, ensuring not only beauty but also durability that will bring you joy for a lifetime.
Explore our exquisite necklace collection, which includes gold necklaces, platinum necklaces, and a stunning array of gemstone necklaces featuring diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. Whether searching for the perfect gift or treating yourself to something special, our collection at Pragnell has the ideal piece to complement your style and celebrate life’s precious moments.
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Bespoke Necklaces at Pragnell
Explore the opportunity to design a necklace that is entirely your own with our custom jewellery service. Work hand-in-hand with our expert craftsmen to select from the highest quality materials, such as luxurious gold, platinum, and a wide range of stunning gemstones. Whether you’re dreaming of a traditional piece or something with a modern edge, we’ll transform your ideas into a beautifully crafted necklace that perfectly captures your style and personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the answers to our most commonly asked questions. Should you want to find out more please feel free to Contact Us and begin your Pragnell experience.
Chokers (14-16 inches) pair well with off-the-shoulder or strapless tops.
Princess lengths (18 inches) complement V-necks, scoop necks, and sweetheart necklines.
Longer necklaces (24 inches and up) are perfect for high necklines like turtlenecks.
