Choosing a necklace that is right for your height, face shape and body can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are a necklace novice. Lucky for you, I have created a comprehensive guide to necklace lengths and how they can be used to complement any look. Let’s start with

Length

Necklaces and pendant chains are available in a variety of different lengths, but not every length will look the same on every person. A lot of key factors such as height, body shape and even face shape can contribute to the look of a necklace. Let’s take a look at all the factors that go into choosing the right necklace length.

2. Face shape

Just like clothing and other accessories, your face shape can determine what style of necklace suits you better than others.

Oval/Round – Look for necklaces that elongate the face such as those that are between 20”-24”. This will help frame the face effortlessly, creating a v-shape that brings the eye down.
Square/ Oblong – A choker or shorter necklace style will help soften the sharper angels of the face, highlighting a longer neck.
Heart-Shaped – Like a square/ oblong face, if your face is more heart shaped, try shorter necklaces from 16”-18” to really help soften the face's angles.

3. Now let’s talk about your height:

Those that are shorter or taller in height, typically have the hardest time in finding a necklace shape that is right for them. Shorter ladies, like me, often find that long necklaces are made too long and taller women find that a necklace that is supposed to be longer, sits too short on the torso. Take a look at these suggestions to find the best length for you:

Under 5’4” Tall– If you have a shorter frame of 5'4” or below, then look for necklaces that will elongate your frame, but not hang too low. If you are looking for a shorter necklace try the 16”-18” length, as this should fit your proportions well. When looking at longer necklaces, try between 20”-24” as this will hang effortlessly.
Between 5’4” and 5’7”– Luckily you can wear any necklace length, but remember to consider your face shape and body type, nit just your height.
Over 5'‘7”– With a taller frame you can usually wear any necklace length, but longer styles will work particularly well as they will accentuate your height. When looking at shorter styles, ensure that the necklace size complements your face shape too.

4. Now onto body shape?

A factor that can be over-looked when purchasing necklace lengths is body type and neck diameter. For us ladies, our dress size or bust size can determine how a necklace will sit against our bodies. Those of us with larger busts should typically op for shorter necklaces and avoid those that are longer that 24” as they won't sit comfortably. If you have a smaller bust, then longer, layered necklaces will look great on you. The same occurs for your neck diameter, if you have a broad, strong neck then avoid chokers as this will make your neckline look shorter (and they will likely feel very uncomfortable). If you have a longer, taller neck, then a choker can help bring proportion to your neckline and face.

Triangle – Because your body is smaller on the top than it is at the bottom, look for necklaces that will broaden your shoulders. Necklaces that are 18”-24” work well as they sit just above your bust and draw attention towards your upper body.
Rectangle– This shape can typically wear any type of necklace, although longer necklaces can help elongate your body more. Try 24-34 inches.
Hourglass – Try a necklace length of 20—24 inches to help accentuate your curves.
Inverted Triangle – With broader shoulders, longer length necklaces will help bring the eye down to your waist, highlighting the smallest part of your body. Try 30-34 inches.

Now that you understand what necklace suits you, it’s time to see what necklace suits the neckline of your outfit. Take a look at my suggestions below to complete your outfit perfectly.

5. Neckline Styles and necklace suggestions

Turtle neck - long chain or pendant. Try the Vaulted or Protection Necklaces.

Crew neck - Wear anything longer than 18 inches. Try a collar or bib necklace to make a statement. The Shelter necklace is a great statement piece as is the Balance Necklace

Scoop neck - 16- 18 inches works great - you can also add more drama if you add pieces with volume. I’d choose the Unite or Mother Necklace to go with this style neckline.

For a Halter Neckline I would suggest a slim pendant or short necklace something like the Harmony or Deco Gemstone Necklace.

With a cowl neckline a short pendant or longer necklace with a statement pendant would work great. Shorter like the Connect Necklace or longer like the Shelter Necklace.

When all is said and done a great fail safe is to measure your favorite necklace and go with that length. And in all honesty, wear what ever makes you feel glorious. Because that’s what you are. And if you are short and want to wear a long necklace - go for it - I do it all the time :)

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5 tips for choosing the perfect necklace length