Double layered gold-tone necklace with teardrop pendant, worn

How to Layer Necklaces: A Step-by-Step Guide

Layered necklaces look calmest with three rules: leave at least 4 to 5 cm (about 2 in) between lengths, for example 40, 45 and 50 cm; pick one necklace with a clear pendant as the focal point; and stick to one colour. Two or three layers are enough for most outfits.

Quick answer

  • Length: 4 to 5 cm difference per layer; a common set-up is 40, 45 and 50 cm (16, 18 and 20 in).
  • Pendants: one focal point, the other layers fine or plain.
  • Colour: all gold-tone or all silver-tone, or one accent in the other colour.
  • Easy start: a necklace that is already double, such as the double layered necklace with drop.

How much length difference do you need between necklaces?

Leave at least 4 to 5 cm between two necklaces so each layer stays visible and the pendants do not touch. If a necklace has an extender, adjust it until the gap is right. Where each length falls is explained in our necklace length guide.

Which necklace do you start with?

For the first layer, choose a fine chain that sits close to the neck:

How do you stop pendants competing?

Pick one necklace as the focal point, for example the star necklace (41 cm plus 5 cm), and keep the other layers plainer or finer. Mix chain textures, such as a twisted chain next to a smooth snake chain, so the layers do not blend into each other.

What does a three-layer combination look like?

  • Layer 1, about 40 cm: a fine chain with one small stone or pearl.
  • Layer 2, about 45 cm: a chain with a small pendant, such as a butterfly or an initial.
  • Layer 3, about 50 cm: a plain chain without a pendant, or the star as the focal point.

Prefer one piece that is already layered?

The double layered necklace with drop combines a flat snake chain and a fine round snake chain (40 and 41 cm, with extender) and is designed so the chains do not twist together. The fine water wave necklace and bracelet set (necklace 45 cm) is another easy start.

Can you mix gold and silver when layering?

Ideally choose the same colour for every layer. If you mix, do it on purpose: two gold-tone chains and one silver-tone as an accent. More in gold-tone or silver-tone. Shop by colour in gold-tone jewellery and silver-tone jewellery.

How do you keep layered necklaces from tangling?

  • Close the clasps before you put the necklaces away.
  • Store each necklace separately, hanging or in its own compartment.
  • Put them on one at a time, longest first.
  • Take them off for showering, swimming and sport.

Browse the layering necklaces or all necklaces to build your own combination.

Frequently asked questions

How many necklaces should you layer?

Two or three is enough for most outfits. More layers work mainly when they are fine and have plenty of length difference.

How much difference between layered necklaces?

At least 4 to 5 cm, for example 40, 45 and 50 cm.

Can I layer with a high neckline?

Yes, over the jumper and with longer lengths, from 50 cm.

How do I stop necklaces twisting together?

Keep enough length difference, mix chain textures, or choose a double necklace made as one piece.

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