Necklace Length Guide: Which Chain Suits Your Neckline?
For most people, 45 cm (about 18 in) is the safest necklace length: it sits just below the collarbone and works with a crew neck, V-neck and blouse. Choose 40 cm (about 16 in) for open necklines such as off-shoulder and strapless, and 50 cm (about 20 in) or longer for a polo neck or high neckline. The same pendant looks very different at 40 cm than at 50 cm.
Quick answer
- 40 cm (16 in): at the base of the neck, by the collarbone. For open necklines and as a first layer.
- 45 cm (18 in): just below the collarbone. The most versatile length, also for pendants.
- 50 cm (20 in): on the upper chest. For higher necklines and as a longer layer.
- Tip: a 5 to 7 cm extender makes a chain a few centimetres shorter or longer.
How do you measure the length you need?
Place a piece of string or a soft tape measure around your neck where you want the necklace to fall. Mark the point and measure the string flat. Necks vary, so treat the lengths below as a guide. Every product page lists the length and extender.
Which necklace lengths are most common?
| Length | Where it falls | Works with |
|---|---|---|
| 40 cm (16 in) | Base of the neck | Off-shoulder, square neck, strapless, first layer |
| 45 cm (18 in) | Just below the collarbone | Crew neck, V-neck, blouse, pendants |
| 50 cm (20 in) | Upper chest | Higher necklines, longer layer |
| 50 cm and longer | Over fabric | Polo neck and high neckline |
Which length suits which neckline?
Crew neck and T-shirt
A 45 cm necklace with a small pendant falls just below the edge of the collar. At 40 cm the chain often sits right on the seam, which looks busy.
V-neck
Let the necklace follow the V. A pendant with some presence at around 45 cm draws the eye to the point of the V. The star necklace (41 cm plus 5 cm extender, star about 24 mm) is a good example.
Wide round neck
Choose 40 to 45 cm so the chain stays above the edge or follows the curve. A fine chain such as the cubic zirconia solitaire necklace (40 cm plus 5 cm) lets the neckline lead.
Off-shoulder, square neck and strapless
With plenty of bare skin there is room for a short 40 cm chain, or a double chain such as the double layered necklace with drop (40 and 41 cm).
Polo neck and high neckline
A necklace quickly disappears against a high neck. Wear it longer, 50 cm or more, over the jumper, and keep it simple: a plain chain or one small pendant. The initial necklace adjusts up to 50 cm.
How big should the pendant be?
A large pendant looks best on a plain neckline. The bow necklace pendant is about 50 x 30 mm and suits a plain top or dress. A fine chain with a small stone also works with a busier print.
Wearing several necklaces at once?
Leave at least 4 to 5 cm between lengths, for example 40, 45 and 50 cm. See how to layer necklaces. Unsure about colour? Read gold-tone or silver-tone.
Browse all necklaces or the layering necklaces to combine lengths.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard necklace length?
Most people choose 40 to 45 cm (16 to 18 in). 45 cm suits most necklines.
Which length for a V-neck?
Around 45 cm with a small pendant, so the chain follows the point of the V.
Which length for a polo neck?
50 cm (20 in) or longer, worn over the jumper.
Can I wear a necklace shorter or longer?
Yes, with the extender if the necklace has one (usually 5 to 7 cm on our pieces). The exact length is on the product page.