Not sure which necklace length is right for you?
Whether you’re buying your first everyday necklace, layering different chains or choosing a thoughtful gift, understanding necklace lengths can make choosing the right piece much easier.
In this guide, we’ll explain the standard necklace lengths, where each one typically sits, how to measure your ideal necklace length and how to choose a length that works for you.
Tip: Save or pin our necklace length guide below so you can easily compare necklace lengths whenever you’re shopping.
Standard Necklace Length Guide
The six standard necklace lengths are shown below
|
Style |
Inches |
Centimetres |
Where it sits |
|
Collar |
12-14” |
30-36 cm |
Base of the neck |
|
Choker |
14-16” |
36-41 cm |
Just above the collarbone |
|
Princess |
16-18” |
40-45 cm |
On or just below the collarbone |
|
Matinee |
20-24” |
50-60 cm |
Between the collarbone and bust |
|
Opera |
28-36” |
70-90 cm |
Around the bust |
|
Rope |
36”+ |
90 cm+ |
Below the bust |
These measurements are a general guide. Where a necklace sits can vary depending on your neck circumference, height and body proportions.
Which Necklace Length Is Right for You?
Every necklace length creates a slightly different look, so the best choice depends on your personal style, what you’re wearing and whether you want an everyday piece or something to layer.
Collar (12–14” / 30–36 cm)
A collar necklace sits closely around the base of the neck and is one of the shortest necklace styles.
Works well with:
● Strapless tops
● Square necklines
● Wearing alone or with longer necklaces
Choker (14–16” / 36–41 cm)
Chokers sit close to the neck, usually just above the collarbone. They’re a good option if you prefer shorter necklaces or want to create a layered look.
Works well with:
● Everyday jewellery
● Layering
● Open necklines
Princess (16–18” / 40–45 cm)
Princess-length necklaces are one of the most versatile options and typically sit around the collarbone.
This length works particularly well for pendants and everyday necklaces. If you’re choosing a necklace as a gift and aren’t sure which length to go for, 16–18 inches can also be a useful starting point.
Works well with:
● Everyday wear
● Pendants
● Gifts
● Layering
Matinee (20–24” / 50–60 cm)
A matinee necklace falls below the collarbone and towards the upper chest.
The extra length works particularly well with higher necklines and can also be layered with shorter chains.
Opera (28–36” / 70–90 cm)
Opera necklaces usually fall around the bust, depending on your height and proportions.
Their longer length works well over higher necklines and some styles can also be doubled over to create a shorter layered look.
Rope (36”+ / 90 cm+)
Rope necklaces are the longest of the standard necklace lengths.
They can be worn long, doubled or layered with shorter necklaces, giving you plenty of ways to style them.
How to Measure Your Ideal Necklace Length
One of the easiest ways to find your ideal necklace length is to measure where you’d naturally like your necklace to sit.
Wrap a piece of ribbon, string or a flexible tape measure around your neck and position it where you’d like the necklace to fall. Once you’re happy with the position, measure the length using a ruler or tape measure.
You can also measure a necklace you already own and love wearing. Lay it flat and measure it from one end to the other, including the clasp.
If you’re choosing a pendant necklace, remember that the pendant itself will hang below the chain.
Remember: Necklace lengths won’t sit exactly the same on everyone. Neck circumference, height and body proportions can all change where a particular length falls, so use standard necklace measurements as a guide rather than a rule.
Layering Necklace Lengths
Layering necklaces is an easy way to personalise your jewellery and wear several of your favourite pieces together.
As a starting point, try choosing necklaces with around 2 inches (5 cm) between each length. This gives each necklace some space and can help prevent your layers from sitting directly on top of one another.
Popular combinations include:
● 16”, 18” and 20”
● 18”, 20” and 22”
● Choker with a princess necklace
● Princess with a matinee necklace
Mixing different chain styles, textures and pendants can also make a layered look feel more interesting while still keeping it simple.
Choosing a Necklace for Different Necklines
Your neckline can also help you decide which necklace length to choose. There are no strict rules, but these combinations are a useful starting point:
|
Neckline |
Necklace Length to Try |
|
Crew Neck |
Princess |
|
V Neck |
Princess or Pendant |
|
Scoop Neck |
Princess |
|
Strapless |
Collar or Choker |
|
Square Neck |
Collar or Princess |
|
High Neck |
Matinee or Opera |
Ultimately, the best combination is whichever feels most comfortable and works with your personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular necklace length?
An 18-inch (45 cm) necklace is one of the most popular choices for everyday wear. It typically sits around the collarbone and works well with a wide range of outfits and necklace styles.
What necklace length is best for everyday wear?
A 16–18 inch necklace is a versatile option for everyday wear, particularly for simple chains and pendant necklaces. The best length for you will ultimately depend on where you prefer your necklace to sit.
Are necklace lengths measured including the clasp?
Yes. Necklace length is generally measured from end to end, including the clasp.
What necklace length is best for layering?
Try leaving around 2 inches (5 cm) between your necklace lengths as a starting point. For example, 16, 18 and 20-inch chains can work well together while allowing each piece to be seen.
What necklace length should I buy as a gift?
If you’re unsure of someone’s preferred necklace length, 16–18 inches is a versatile place to start. If possible, checking the length of a necklace they already wear is an even better way to choose.
Find Your Perfect Necklace
Whether you’re looking for a simple everyday chain or a meaningful pendant, finding the right necklace length can make all the difference to how a piece looks and feels when you wear it.
Explore our collection of sterling silver necklaces and 14ct gold vermeil necklaces to find your perfect fit.