Choosing Necklace Lengths That Flatter Your Body Type and Style – The Ultimate Guide

Have you ever wondered why some necklaces look great on you while others don’t?
The answer lies in choosing the necklace length and how it complements your body type, facial features, height, and clothing neckline.

Choosing the right necklace length can make a huge difference in your appearance and style. It can enhance your best features, balance your proportions, and create a harmonious look.

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about choosing the perfect necklace length for your body type and style.

Understanding Your Body Type

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a necklace length is your body type.
Your body type determines how a necklace will fit and drape on your torso, and how it will balance your proportions and silhouette.

Different body types have different advantages and challenges when it comes to choosing a necklace length that flatters them.

Here are some common body types and tips for choosing the right necklace length for each one:

Mid-size figures

If you have a mid-size figure, you are neither too thin nor too curvy.
You have a balanced and proportionate body shape that can pull off most necklace lengths.

However, you should avoid extremes, such as very short or very long necklaces, as they can make you look shorter or wider than you are.

Instead, opt for medium-length necklaces that fall between your collarbone and your bust line, such as 18-inch or 20-inch necklaces.

These lengths will accentuate your neckline and create a flattering vertical line.

Full-figured bodies

If you have a full-figured body, you have a voluptuous and curvy shape that can benefit from longer necklaces.
Longer necklaces can elongate your torso and draw attention away from your problem areas, such as your tummy or hips.
You can also layer multiple strands of different lengths to create more interest and dimension.
Avoid short or tight-fitting necklaces that can make you look bulky or cut off your neck.

Instead, choose necklaces that fall below your bust line or even lower, such as 24-inch or 36-inch necklaces.
These lengths will create a slimming effect and enhance your curves.

Wide necks/broad shoulders

If you have a wide neck or broad shoulders, you may find it challenging to find a necklace that fits comfortably and does not emphasize your width.
You should avoid chokers or collars that can make your neck look shorter or wider, or necklaces that end at your shoulder line that can draw attention to your broadness.

Instead, choose necklaces that are longer and looser, such as 20-inch or 22-inch necklaces.
These lengths will create some space between your neck and shoulders and soften your angles.

Long and short necks

If you have a long or short neck, you should choose a necklace length that complements your neck length and creates a balanced look.

For long necks, you can wear chokers or collars that can show off your graceful neck and add some width to it.
You can also layer multiple strands of different lengths to create more volume and texture.

Avoid very long necklaces that can make your neck look longer or thinner than it is.

For short necks, you can wear longer necklaces that can elongate your neck and create a vertical line.
You can also choose V-shaped or Y-shaped pendants that can draw the eye down and add some length to your neck.

Avoid chokers or collars that can make your neck look shorter or thicker than it is.

Matching Necklace Lengths with Facial Features

Another factor to consider when choosing a necklace length is your facial features.
Your facial features determine how a necklace will frame your face and how it will harmonize with your facial shape.

Different facial features have different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to choosing a necklace length that flatters them.

Here are some common facial features and tips for choosing the right necklace length for each one:

Heart-shaped faces

If you have a heart-shaped face, you have a wide forehead, prominent cheekbones, and a narrow chin.
You can balance your face shape by choosing necklaces that add some width and softness to your chin and jawline.

You can also choose necklaces that draw attention to your collarbone and décolletage.
Avoid necklaces that end at your chin or that are too short or too long, as they can emphasize your forehead or chin.

Instead, choose necklaces that fall between your collarbone and your bust line, such as 18-inch or 20-inch necklaces.
You can also choose necklaces with round or curved pendants that can contrast your angular features.

Round faces

If you have a round face, you have a circular shape with full cheeks and a soft jawline.
You can balance your face shape by choosing necklaces that add some length and definition to your face.

You can also choose necklaces that draw attention to your neckline and chest area.
Avoid necklaces that are too short or too round, as they can make your face look wider or shorter than it is.

Instead, choose necklaces that fall below your collarbone or even lower, such as 22-inch or 24-inch necklaces.
You can also choose necklaces with V-shaped or Y-shaped pendants that can create a slimming effect and add some angles to your face.

Long (rectangular) faces

If you have a long (rectangular) face, you have a narrow shape with a high forehead and a long chin.
You can balance your face shape by choosing necklaces that add some width and volume to your face.

You can also choose necklaces that draw attention to your cheekbones and eyes.
Avoid necklaces that are too long or too straight, as they can make your face look longer or thinner than it is.

Instead, choose necklaces that fall at or above your collarbone, such as 16-inch or 18-inch necklaces.
You can also choose necklaces with round or oval pendants that can soften your features and add some curves to your face.

Oval faces

If you have an oval face, you have a balanced and symmetrical shape with a slightly rounded forehead and chin.
You have the most versatile face shape when it comes to choosing a necklace length, as you can wear almost any length and style of necklace.

However, you should avoid extremes, such as very short or very long necklaces, as they can make your face look out of proportion.

Instead, opt for medium-length necklaces that fall between your collarbone and your bust line, such as 18-inch or 20-inch necklaces.
You can also choose necklaces with any shape of a pendant that suits your personality and style.

Height Considerations when Choosing Necklace Lengths

Another factor to consider when choosing a necklace length is your height.
Your height determines how a necklace will fit and drape on your body, and how it will affect your overall appearance and proportions.

Different heights have different challenges and opportunities when it comes to choosing a necklace length that flatters them.

Here are some tips for choosing the right necklace length for each height:

Short

If you are short (under 5’4″), you can benefit from necklaces that can elongate your body and create a vertical line.
You can also choose necklaces that can draw attention to your face and neckline.
Avoid necklaces that are too long or too bulky, as they can overwhelm your frame or make you look shorter than you are.

Instead, choose necklaces that fall at or above your collarbone, such as 16-inch or 18-inch necklaces.
You can also choose necklaces with V-shaped or Y-shaped pendants that can add some length and definition to your body.

Tall

If you are tall (over 5’8″), you can benefit from necklaces that can add some width and dimension to your body and break up your vertical line.
You can also choose necklaces that can draw attention to your chest and waist area.
Avoid necklaces that are too short or too tight, as they can make you look out of proportion or cut off your neck.

Instead, choose necklaces that fall below your collarbone or even lower, such as 22-inch or 24-inch necklaces.
You can also choose necklaces with round or oval pendants that can add some curves and balance to your body.

Necklace Lengths and Clothing Necklines

Another factor to consider when choosing a necklace length is your clothing neckline.
Your clothing neckline determines how a necklace will interact with your outfit and how it will complement or contrast your style.
Different clothing necklines have different rules and preferences when it comes to choosing a necklace length that flatters them.

Here are some common clothing necklines and tips for choosing the right necklace length for each one:

Matching necklace lengths and styles with clothing necklines

As a general rule, you should match the shape of your necklace with the shape of your neckline.

For example, if you have a V-shaped neckline, you should choose a V-shaped necklace or pendant.
If you have a round neckline, you should choose a round necklace or pendant.
This way, you can create a harmonious and cohesive look that enhances your outfit.

However, you can also break this rule and choose a contrasting shape for your necklace if you want to create some interest and drama.

For example, if you have a V-shaped neckline, you can choose a round necklace or pendant to create some contrast and balance.
The choice is yours and depends on your personal style and preference.

14-inch necklaces

These are also known as chokers or collars, and they fit snugly around your neck.
They are best suited for strapless, off-the-shoulder, or halter necklines that expose your neck and shoulders.

You might want to try V-shaped or scoop necklines that are not too low-cut.
They can add some elegance and sophistication to your look, as well as draw attention to your face and neck.

However, they can also make your neck look shorter or thicker than it is, so you should avoid them if you have a short or wide neck.

16-inch necklaces

These are also known as princess-length necklaces, and they fall just below your collarbone.
They are the most versatile and popular necklace lengths, as they can work well with almost any neckline and outfit.

They can add some sparkle and charm to your look, as well as accentuate your collarbone and décolletage.

However, they can also interfere with some necklines that are too high or too low-cut, so you should adjust them accordingly.

18-inch necklaces

These are also known as matinee-length necklaces, and they fall just above your bust line.
They are ideal for crew necks, boat necks, or turtlenecks that cover most of your neck and chest area.

They can add some drama and flair to your look, as well as create a flattering vertical line.

However, they can also clash with some necklines that are too low-cut or too open, so you should avoid them if you have a large bust or a short torso.

20-24-inch necklaces

These are also known as opera-length necklaces, and they fall between your bust line and your navel.
They are perfect for high-necked or closed-necked outfits that need some extra embellishment and interest.

They can add some glamour and sophistication to your look, as well as elongate your torso and draw attention away from your problem areas.

However, they can also overwhelm your frame or make you look shorter than you are, so you should avoid them if you are petite or have a long torso.

28–36-inch necklaces

These are also known as lariat-length or rope-length necklaces, and they fall below your navel or even lower.
They are great for low-cut or open-necked outfits that expose your chest and stomach area.

They can add some fun and personality to your look, as well as create a slimming effect and enhance your curves.

However, they can also get tangled or caught in your clothing or accessories, so you should be careful when wearing them.

36-52 inch necklaces

These are also known as sautoir-length or multi-strand necklaces, and they are the longest necklace length available.
They can be worn in various ways, such as single-stranded, double-stranded, triple-stranded, knotted, looped, or wrapped around your neck or waist.

Idealy, for simple or plain outfits that need some extra pizzazz and variety.
They can add some creativity and versatility to your look, as well as create different effects depending on how you wear them.

However, they can also be too heavy or cumbersome to wear comfortably, so you should choose them wisely.

Other Factors to Consider

Besides your body type, facial features, height, and clothing neckline, there are some other factors to consider when choosing a necklace length.
These factors include your personality, gender, terminology, width, and closet. Here are some tips for choosing the right necklace length based on these factors:

Necklaces and personality

Your necklace can also reflect your personality and mood.
You can choose a necklace length that suits your style and preference, as well as expresses your individuality and character.

For example, if you are a confident and bold person, you can choose a long or statement necklace that can make you stand out and attract attention.
If you are a shy and reserved person, you can choose a short or delicate necklace that can make you look elegant and refined.
If you are a fun and playful person, you can choose a colorful or quirky necklace that can make you look cheerful and lively.

Necklaces lengths for men

Although necklaces are more commonly worn by women, men can also wear them to enhance their look and style.
Men can choose a necklace length that suits their body type, facial features, height, and clothing neckline, as well as their personality and preference.

However, men should avoid necklaces that are too long or too flashy, as they can look tacky.

Instead, men should opt for necklaces that are short or medium in length, such as 18-inch or 20-inch necklaces.
They should also choose necklaces that are simple or masculine in style, such as chains, leather cords, beads, or dog tags.

Different names for different necklace lengths

As you may have noticed, different necklace lengths have different names that describe them.
These names can help you identify and remember the different necklace lengths and their characteristics.

However, these names are not fixed or standardized, and they may vary depending on the source or the region.
Therefore, you should not rely solely on these names when choosing a necklace length, but rather on the actual measurement and appearance of the necklace.

Necklace width

Another factor to consider when choosing a necklace length is the width of the necklace.
The width of the necklace refers to how thick or thin the necklace is, or how many strands or layers it has.

The width of the necklace can affect how it fits and drapes on your body, as well as how it complements or contrasts your outfit.

Generally speaking, you should choose a necklace width that balances your body type and clothing neckline.

For example, if you have a small or delicate frame, you should choose a thin or single-stranded necklace that can make you look graceful and sophisticated.
If you have a large or voluptuous frame, you should choose a thick or multi-stranded necklace that can make you look bold and glamorous.

Choosing the right necklace for your closet

Finally, you should choose a necklace length that matches your closet and wardrobe.
You should choose a necklace length that goes well with most of your outfits and occasions, as well as your personal style and preference.

Choose a necklace length that is versatile and adaptable to different looks and moods.
You don’t need to have a lot of necklaces in different lengths and styles; you just need to have a few essential ones that can work with anything and everything.

Word to the Wise

Choosing the right necklace length can make a huge difference in your appearance and style.
It can enhance your best features, balance your proportions, and create a harmonious look.

However, choosing the right necklace length can also be tricky and confusing, as there are many factors to consider and many options to choose from.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks you need, you can confidently choose the necklace length that flatters you the most and expresses your personality.
You can experiment with different lengths and styles and find the ones that suit you best.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to choosing a necklace length.
The best necklace length for you is the one that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.
So go ahead and have fun with your necklaces and discover the amazing difference they can make in your look and style.