Necklace Length Guide
The Definitive Necklace Length Guide
The right necklace length can instantly elevate your look. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about chain lengths — for both women and men — so you can choose with confidence!
Women's Standard Necklace Lengths
- 14" The Choker: Sits snugly at the base of the neck.
- 16" The Collarbone: Rests at the base of the throat for a versatile look.
- 18" The Princess: Falls elegantly on the collarbone.
- 20" Matinee: Sits below the collarbone.
- 22" Matinee (Longer): Falls a bit lower than the 20".
- 24" Opera (Short): Rests at or just above the center of the bust.
- 30" Opera (Long): RopeFalls below the bust. Ideal for layering or doubling up for a chic, versatile look.
Men's Standard Necklace Lengths
- 18" The Base-of-Neck: A shorter, modern length that rests at the base of the neck.
- 20" The Collarbone: The most common length for men, falling at the collarbone.
- 22" Below the Collarbone: Falls a few inches below the collarbone, offering a slightly longer, more relaxed look.
- 24" Mid-Chest: Reaches the middle of the chest, making it a standout length for statement pendants.
How to Choose the Right Length?
To choose the right length of necklace, you can simply wrap a string around your neck, mark and measure it! Or, skip the guesswork and use Virtual Necklace Try-On for an instant, accurate fit! Here's how you can do it online:
Open Your Camera
Click the "Try On " button to activate your webcam or upload a photo of yourself
Select a necklace from the menu
See the necklace appear live on your neck, showing exactly where it will fall.
See the Result!
Try on different lengths and styles to see which ones best complement your face shape, and desired look.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Necklace Length
Choosing the right necklace length for your face shape, neckline, and body can feel overwhelming. That’s why Perfect Corp put together this easy necklace length guide, along with tips and tools to help you find the style that flatters you most!
Outfit's Neckline
Your neckline frames your necklace, and the right match makes your look pop. Here’s how to pick a length that flatters your outfit:
- Turtlenecks: Go for longer necklaces (20-30 inches), a long chain with a layered look works well.
- V-Necks: Try princess or matinee length (18-22 inches) with a V-shaped pendant.
- Crew Necks: Shorter necklaces lengths (16-18 inches) are great, as they sit above the collarbone, complementing the neckline.
- Off-Shoulder: The ideal necklace length is typically a choker (14-16 inches) or a princess length (17-19 inches)
Face Shapes
Besides Necklines, face shapes also matters. The right length can balance your features, highlight your best angles:
- Round Faces: Opt for longer necklaces (20–30 inches) with a pendant or Y-shape to elongate and slim the face.
- Oval Faces: Oval faces suit nearly any necklace length! Feel free to try all kinds of length.
- Long Faces: Chokers (14–16") or 18" princess lengths broaden the face and soften its length
- Heart-Shaped Faces: Princess-length necklaces (18 inches) create a gentle curve that balances a wide forehead and narrow chin.
Neck Size & Height
After face shape, consider your neck and frame — the right length can elongate, highlight, and balance your look.
- Short Neck: Avoid chokers; choose longer lengths (20"+) to visually lengthen the neck.
- Long Neck: Can pull off chokers and collar-length pieces elegantly.
- Petite Frame: Go for shorter lengths (16"-20") to keep proportions balanced.
Choosing a necklace that flatters your neck and frame ensures your whole look feels balanced and effortless.
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Necklace Length FAQ
What length should my necklace be?
For everyday wear, women typically look best in 16–18 inch necklaces and men in 20 inch chains. Pieces that sit between the base of the neck and the collarbone pair effortlessly with almost any outfit
What is the most attractive necklace length?
The 18-inch princess necklace is the most popular choice, thanks to its versatility. It pairs beautifully with almost any neckline and outfit, easily taking you from casual daytime style to sophisticated evening wear.
How do I choose the right chain length?
The best way to find the perfect fit without a physical try-on is to use a virtual necklace try-on tool, like the one offered by Perfect Corp., which uses augmented reality to show you how different lengths will look on you.
How does body type affect chain length?
For petite frames, shorter chains (16–18 inches) create a balanced look, while longer chains (20–24 inches) flatter taller or curvier body types by elongating the silhouette.
