How to Measure Necklace Length?

Setting the desired necklace lengths is a crucial first step in selecting a necklace. Because the necklace's length is one of the most important parameters in deciding its style, a slip-up here can result in an entirely new necklace cut. Necklaces come in a wide variety of lengths, and a few inches here and there can transform the look of the piece.

The length of your necklace, though, depends on more than just your personal taste in jewelry. Necklace length is influenced by a number of factors, including the clothing you will be wearing, the environment, your neck and face shape, and the thickness of your neck. With that out of the way, let us take a closer look at the subject and determine the optimal necklace length for different styles, outfits, and even face shapes.

What is the Perfect Necklace Length?

We base our necklace lengths on a few characteristics imposed by conventional thinking. The necklace's length can be adjusted according to the wearer's height, preferred style of clothes, and other individual characteristics. For example, a 14-inch necklace looks great with low-cut blouses, as opposed to longer necklaces (more than 18 inches) that might be more appropriate for open-collared shirts.

How to Measure Necklace Length?

With knowing a few simple methods for measuring necklace length, you can easily estimate the necklace length.

Wrap a flexible tape measure or rope around your neck to get the measurement. Cut the string or tape measure. Then, lay the string flat and use a ruler to measure. Measure carefully, making sure the tape is parallel to the floor the whole time.

After you've measured your neck's length, the last step is to add certain inches according to the necklace type you've chosen. Standard necklace lengths vary by style, and there is also a gender-specific formula for determining how long a necklace should be.

Necklace lengths for women

The standard necklace length for women to be added is as follows after the neck measurement is taken.

 

Choker (14-16 inches):

For a choker necklace length guide, you should add 1-2 inches to the neck size. Choker necklaces that sit at the base of the neck, just above the collarbone, or just above the collarbone can be worn with both your casual outfits.

 

Princess (18-20 inches):

For Princess necklaces, add 2-4 inches to the neck size. These necklaces, known as average necklace lengths, fall just below the collarbone. They are suitable for both classic and elegant attire and chic evening outings and captivate with their timeless aesthetic.

 

Matinée (22-24 inches):

For the Matinée necklace, you should add 4-6 inches to the neck size. These necklaces fall between the collarbone and the chest. Matinée necklaces are sophisticated and flashy, and they go well with high collars and business suits.

 

Opera (28-36 inches):

You need to add 8-10 inches to the neck size for an opera necklace. These necklaces fall at chest level or an inch or two below. They are suitable for formal events and cocktail parties.

 

Rope (36 inches and above):

For a rope necklace, you will need to add 12 inches or more to the neck size. These necklaces fall below the bust line and can extend to the navel.

Necklace Lengths for Men

After the men's length necklace is taken, the standard measurements and lengths for men to be added are as follows.

Pendant Necklace (22-26 inches):

For a classic pendant necklace, you should add 6–10 inches to your neck size. This type of necklace usually sits at chest level and can be personalized with various figures or symbols.

Beaded Necklace (24-28 inches):

For beaded necklaces, add 8-12 inches to the neck measurement. This length should end at the center of the chest or slightly lower. It is not desirable for these necklaces to be too long or too short, as it is not comfortable to wear.

Chain Necklace (22-30 inches):

For the chain necklace, you will need to add 6–14 inches to the neck size. Chain necklaces come in various thicknesses and lengths and end at or below the center of the rib cage.

Leather Necklace (18-24 inches):

Add 2-8 inches to the neck size for men's favorite necklace, the leather necklace. These necklaces end at or slightly below the collarbone and are meant to fit tightly around the neck.

Dog Tag Necklace (20-24 inches):

For the dog necklace, you will need to add 4–8 inches to the neck size. These necklaces are not preferred to be too short, ending just below the collarbone or at chest level.

Most Common Necklace Lengths

Here, you can find a list of the most popular necklace styles, along with their corresponding lengths.

14-inch Necklace Length

These necklaces emphasize the neckline when they are worn snugly around the neck. For formal events, they are frequently paired with sophisticated attire.

16-inch Necklace Length

The 16 inch necklace length is well-suited for V-neck blouses, shirts, and dresses, as it extends to just above the collarbone.

18-inch Necklace Length

18 necklace length is the most commonly used necklace size, known as princess or standard cut necklaces. These necklaces are versatile enough to complement both everyday and formal attire.

20-inch Necklace Length

20-inch necklaces are the average necklace length for a man , and they reach between the collarbone and the chest. Pairs well with blouses, sweaters, and dresses.

22-inch Necklace Length

Known as matinee cut necklaces, these necklaces stand a few inches lower between the collarbone and the chest. Although these necklaces are more commonly seen in professional settings, they are equally appropriate for formal and informal occasions.

24-inch Necklace Length

The 24-inch necklace style, which ends just below the collarbone and near the chest, is perfect for dressier occasions.

30-inch Necklace Length

30-inch necklaces, also called opera fit necklaces, are either chest level or slightly lower. They are especially suitable for formal events and dinners. It is an elegant combination with long dresses and blouses. It can additionally be collapsed and utilized as a bi-fold necklace.

36-inch Necklace Length

Known as the Rope or Sautoir Cut, these necklaces extend from below the chest to the navel. They can be combined with elegant evening dresses and bohemian-style outfits. It can also be wrapped several times and used as a shorter, layered necklace.

Necklace Length Chart

You can easily choose the type of necklace that suits you on the necklace length chart.

Necklace Length	Dimension (cm)	Areas of Use
14 inches	35 cm	Minimalist designs, chin-length necklaces
16 inches	40 cm	Necklaces for everyday wear, neutral and versatile
18 inch	45 cm	Most popular length, chest-length necklaces
20 inches	50 cm	Dramatic designs, layered or asymmetrical necklaces
22 inches	55 cm	Street style, bohemian fashion, big necklace designs
24 inches	60 cm	Vintage or ethnic styles, striking accessories

FAQs About Necklace Length

Below, you will find frequently asked questions and answers about necklace sizes.

What is the Right Length for a Necklace?

To determine the right necklace length, you should consider your face shape and the clothes you will wear. For round and small face shapes, oval and long necklace types can soften the contours of your face. However, for square or heart-shaped facial features, shorter and round necklaces may smooth out chestnuts.

Is a 16 or 18-inch Necklace Better?

16- and 18-inch necklaces are the most preferred lengths. While 16-inch necklaces are used in more minimalist styles, 18-inch necklaces extend up to chest level and can be worn at formal events.

Is 20-inch Necklace Too Long?

23-inch necklaces extend between the collarbone and the chest. They are marginally longer than standard necklaces, yet they do not qualify as long necklaces. Additionally, these necklaces are a common way to accessorize, particularly with current fashion.

How Long is a 22-inch Necklace?

A 22-inch necklace is ideal for street style or bohemian fashion and is often used for large, statement necklace designs. These necklaces are an excellent choice for those seeking to layer their looks or adorn themselves with eye-catching accessories.

How Long is an 18-inch Necklace On?

The 18-inch necklace is the most frequently chosen medium-length necklace option. It is available in a variety of styles and will be a perfect match for any outfit.

How Long Is 16 inches in a Necklace?

A 16-inch necklace is a short necklace length that stops at chin level. It is preferred for minimalist and elegant designs and is usually suitable for everyday wear.

How Long is a 24 Necklace Length?

A 24-inch necklace is used for very long and eye-catching necklace designs. It is often preferred for designer pieces or large accessories.

The size of a necklace significantly influences its style. In this regard, a judicious selection is imperative. For this, you should first determine where you will use the necklace and your style. Subsequent to this assessment, you should consider necklace sizes that most effectively accentuate your facial and neck contours.

If you require expert assistance, please send us a brief message via our communication channels. Silveristic professionals are available to address all of your inquiries promptly and transparently.