A Guide to Picking the Right Necklace Length
Picking the right necklace lengths can really make or break your outfit. A choker that hits at just the right spot can really pull together an outfit while one that hangs precariously at the wrong length can throw it off. And if you’re at a loss with all of the different sizes of necklaces out there, we’re here to break them down. There are six major styles and reasons to wear each of them. Learn all about them and then shop our favorites below.
14" Collar
Fits tightly around the neck and is best worn with open-neck tops.
16" Choker
Sits tightly against the base of the neck and can be worn with most necklines.
18" Princess
Rests on the collarbone and can be worn with most necklines.
20" Matinée
Falls between the collarbone and the bust; works with most necklines.
24" Opera
Drops on the bust or below; best for high necklines.
30" to 34" Rope
Falls below the bust; best for formal evening attire.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
Elizabeth Olsen Just Wore These Anti-Trend Heels With Cropped Pants, and It's a 10/10
So elegant.
By Allyson Payer
-
36 On-Trend Spring Items I'm Eyeing From Reformation, Zara, and Mango
Prepare your carts.
By Caitlin Burnett
-
6 Fall 2025 Runway Trends I Already Found at Zara, H&M, and Mango
Affordability's never looked so good.
By Eliza Huber
-
The Chanel-Inspired Flats Trend That Looks Elevated, Luxe, and Instantly Polished
Just ask Alexa Chung.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
I Know a Viral Item When I See One, and These New $190 Eyeglasses Are Set for Mega Fame
Heaven Mayhem's latest accessory launch is here.
By Ana Escalante
-
35 Incredibly Chic Luxury Finds I Would Immediately Buy If My Salary Tripled Tomorrow
A girl can dream, right?
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Spring Outfits From Zara, Mango, and Nordstrom—You're Welcome
Outfits for everything from a wedding to brunch.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Pack This One Accessory If You Want to Look Rich on Your Next Vacation
Luxe and glamorous.
By Michelle Scanga