Necklace Lengths
Women wear all lengths of necklaces, from 14 to 36 inches. For men, the lower and upper-most lengths of the range are not typically used. Below are descriptions of the customary lengths for average builds. For larger persons, the next size up is the equivalent. For a very petite person, you may consider sizing down.
14” - This length is called a Choker, siting well above the collar bone. This style is intended to stand out and be noticed. This length pair best with open necklines (strapless or off the shoulder), allowing the necklace to be fully visible.
16” – This length is called a Collar because it rests on the collar bone. You will however, also see it referred to as a choker, which can be confusing. It is easily worn with high or low necklines. When paired with a pendant, the pendant will typically sit in the upper to middle of the upper chest. With a button-down shirt the pendant is perfectly positioned to be visible.
18” – The most common length in women’s necklaces, it typically sits a couple of inches below the collar bone, pairing best with collared, sweetheart, and crew necklines. With collared or crew necklines, worn next to the skin, much of the necklace will be hidden under the clothing, with only the front part showing. This length can also be worn very nicely on the outside of clothing. Attached pendants will pull the necklace down a bit, so that the pendant will be positioned at upper chest level.
20” – This is the second most common length in women’s necklaces and the smallest length commercially available for men’s necklaces. For women, this length is typically worn on top of clothing and is appropriate for either business, casual, or evening wear. This length works well with higher necklines including collar, scoop, boatneck and crew because the individual lines of the necklace and clothing do not interfere, allowing each to shine.
24” – This length also looks best with higher neck clothing - collar, scoop, boatneck, or crew - for the same reasons. It is always worn on top of clothing. In women’s necklaces this is commonly used for evening wear. It can also be used with business or casual clothing, but typically not with a jacket, as it disrupts the visual flow. Tassel necklaces are often this length.
28-36” – For most people, these are very long necklaces, and are often considered as a more formal. Because of the long length, it works well with both turtlenecks and scoop necklines. It also looks great with boatneck tops. Because it lies well below the chest, the lines of the clothing do not interfere with the lines of the necklace. The style of these necklaces tends toward flashier with gems, pearls, or crystals. The 28” is typically the longest available for men, and usually used by larger men in which it fits more like a 24”. In men’s styles, these are not specifically considered formal wear.