necklace length is important
Think about where your 'focal point' is-- if you are tall and slender with a tapered dress, you can wear a very long necklace. On the other hand, if you are wearing a handsome collared shirt where the focus is on your shoulders and face, a very long necklace will draw eyes to two areas -- your neck, shoulder and face area, and your stomach area. A short necklace would be more suitable. Here is a *LINK* that illustrates the above fashion points very well (scroll down on page for photos). | |
at red sky jewelry
If you are buying a necklace as a gift, you may want to consider one of the necklaces that comes with an extender. | |
general necklace lengths | |
how to measure
If you want to be as precise as possible, here is a formula you may find useful to approximate the drape: (necklace measurement) minus (neck measurement) ÷ 2 = X X = distance from base of throat = where necklace ends | |
the "official" categories of necklace lengths
Collar lengths lie up on the neck and go well with boat necks, V-necks and off-the-shoulder tops. Although collars are worn with casual wear, they are great for elegant occasions. Choker (14"-16") If you don’t like the snugness of a collar, consider the choker length which falls just above the collarbone. Chokers can be single or multi-stranded, and can go with practically any outfit, casual or fancy, except turtlenecks. Chokers make nice choices for wedding or bridesmaid dresses. Princess (17”-19”) The Princess length drapes over the collar bone, and is good for either high necklines, for a collared neckline where the necklace can lie below it, or for a very low evening wear neckine. Matinee (20”-24”) The Matinee drapes on the chest and is a good choice for office or casual wear. A simple top with either a higher neckline works best. Opera (28”-34”) This length adds elegance and draws attention down away from the neck. Better for higher necklines. Ropes (Over 45”) Ropes are very long necklaces that evoke images of Coco Chanel, a woman definitely on the cutting edge. Ropes can be wrapped to make a 2 or more strand choker. Lariats (Over 46”) Lariats are increasing in popularity. The ends are unattached allowing for versatility in tying. Lariats are now being made in shorter versions. |