Necklace Pairings 101: How to Match Your Necklace to Your Neckline
Ever found yourself staring at your wardrobe, trying to figure out which necklace to pair with your outfit's neckline? This is a question I get a lot, so I thought I’d make it into a comprehensive style guide! With these tips, you'll be nailing the necklace game every time.
If I were to give one overarching tip to keep in mind regarding necklace and neckline pairings, it is this…the job of your necklace(s) is to help enhance the optical illusion of your outfit. Meaning the necklace(s) are there to create balance and proportion. In some cases, creating it where it does not naturally exist. So they need to work for you and your body. Usually, that means filling up the space at the neckline in a way that feels symmetric and in sync with the top’s neckline.
The Best Necklaces for Each Neckline
High Necklines: Go Long and Chic
High necklines, like turtlenecks and mock necks, call for longer necklaces that hang below the collarbone. Because a chunky collarbone chain paired with a turtleneck can give off The Rock vibes. And ladies, that is not the look we are going for.
Combining a pendant necklace or a long chain to elongate your silhouette. Want to make an even bolder statement? Layer multiple long necklaces of varying lengths for an eye-catching look. Your turtleneck serves as a canvas to highlight the necklace, so make the most of it. Trust me; your turtleneck will thank you for the extra flair!
Pro styling tips:
The key is for the necklace to hit between the collarbone and the belly button. And make sure it does not hit right at the bust. We do not want the necklace bouncing off the girls. Additionally, if you’re wearing a belt, keep the necklace between the bust and collarbone so the necklace and belt are not competing.
Crew Neckline: A Classic
The crew neck, a wardrobe staple, offers a canvas for effortless elegance. Its simplicity allows for a range of necklace pairings, each adding a unique touch.
Since there's minimal skin exposed, ensure your necklace contrasts with your shirt for maximum impact. A delicate choker, mirroring the neckline's shape, creates a modern, edgy look, while layered necklaces that fall just below the clavicle add depth and dimension. For a more graceful and elongating effect, opt for a longer necklace featuring a pendant, drawing the eye downwards.
V-Necklines: Make a Statement
V-necks and statement necklaces are a match made in fashion heaven! A pendant necklace that falls within the neckline or a V-shaped piece to complement the shape works well because it mimics the shape of the v. If you're feeling adventurous, try layering delicate chains with your statement necklace to add some extra frosting.
A v-neckline can be super attractive, especially if you have a larger bust. However, one of the tricky aspects of a v-neck is that there is a vast amount of contiguous skin, which can sometimes translate into a face, chin, and neck that morphs into one. Necklaces can help fill up that space and create visual balance.
Pro styling tips:
Ideally, we want to fill up that v-neck space evenly and symmetrically. So that can mean one necklace, evenly spaced between the neck and the v of the top. Or it can mean multiple necklaces dispersed proportionally in that space.
Scoop Necklines: Versatility is Key
Scoop necklines are super versatile and play well with a variety of necklaces. Want to draw attention to your neckline? Go for a choker or collar necklace. A longer necklace will do the trick if you want to elongate your torso. With scoop necklines, the possibilities are endless! To create a unique look, experiment with different textures and materials, like pearls, beads, or metal chains.
Pro styling tips:
Since scoop necklines play so nicely with every necklace type, the world really is your oyster. The key is that if you’re opting for only one shorter necklace, it should be evenly placed on the chest, equidistant between the collarbone and the scoop of the shirt. It will feel off if the necklace sits too short or long on the chest.
Off-the-Shoulder Necklines: Keep it Short and Sweet
When rocking an off-the-shoulder top or dress, keep your necklace game simple. Choose a choker or a short pendant necklace that sits just above the collarbone. For added interest, try a necklace with a pop of color that compliments your outfit or a dainty charm that reflects your personality.
Pro styling tips:
The off-the-shoulder style is very trendy right now and has a vintage vibe. To avoid feeling too costumey, it’s best to keep the choker lower on the neck instead of mid-neck.
Boat Necklines: Sail Away with Longer Necklaces
Boat necklines and longer necklaces are a dream team. Pair your boat neck top with a statement pendant necklace or a lariat necklace that falls below the collarbone. This will draw attention to the neckline and add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. If you're feeling creative, mix and match different chain styles, like a chunky chain with a delicate one, for a fashionable layered look.
Pro style tips:
Boat necklines are typically great for triangle shapes. And not great for busty gals or inverted triangles (because they add visual volume to the top. Because of this, necklaces that hit below the collar bone pair well with this type of top. They can be chunky statements or delicate layers. It’s the element of adding interest to the area below the collar bone that is key.
Sweetheart Necklines: Follow Your Heart
Sweetheart necklines create a beautiful, feminine silhouette that's perfect for showing off a stunning necklace. Opt for a shorter necklace, like a princess-length chain or a collar necklace, to accentuate the heart shape of the neckline. Choose a necklace with a striking pendant or a unique design to make your ensemble truly memorable.
Pro style tip:
A sweetheart neckline can truly stand on its own. The shape offers interest and detail, so often no necklace is needed. In that case, opting for a more substantial earring works well. However, if you do like things to be a bit more dramatic, adding a necklace that mimics the neckline is a fantastic option.
Square Necklines: Frame It Right
Square necklines create a crisp, modern look that pairs well with geometric or angular necklaces. To emphasize the clean lines of the neckline, choose a necklace with a bold pendant or a striking bib-style design. A choker or collar necklace also works well, following the neckline’s horizontal line and creating a balanced, harmonious appearance.
Pro style tip
The sharp lines of a square neckline tend to play nicely with softer necklace styles. Something that is circular or even triangular balances this neckline style.
Pro Tips for Pairing Your Necklaces with your Necklines
Consider the shape
Choose a necklace that complements the shape of your neckline. Bookmark this blog post so you can refer back to the guidelines above!
Think about length
The right necklace length can make all the difference. Generally, opt for shorter necklaces with open or low necklines and longer necklaces with high necklines.
Play with layers
Layering necklaces can add dimension and interest to your outfit. Try combining delicate chains of varying lengths, or mix and match different styles, like a chunky chain with a delicate one.
Balance is key
When pairing your necklace with your neckline, try to strike a balance between the two. If you have a busy neckline with ruffles or embellishments, go for a simpler necklace. On the other hand, if your neckline is minimal and clean, feel free to go bolder with your necklace choice.
Match your outfit's style
Consider the overall style of your outfit when choosing a necklace. Pair elegant pearl necklaces with formal outfits, while boho or chunky necklaces work well with casual attire.
Express your personality
Don't be afraid to experiment and choose necklaces that reflect your personal style. Whether it's a dainty charm, a pop of color, or a unique design, let your necklace make a statement about who you are.
Mind the proportions
If you have a larger bust or broader shoulders, opt for longer necklaces that elongate your torso. On the other hand, if you have a smaller frame, shorter necklaces can create a more balanced look.
Colors and metals
Try to match your necklace's colors or metals with your outfit or skin tone. For example, gold necklaces tend to look great on warm skin tones, while silver complements cool skin tones. Similarly, coordinate your necklace's color with your outfit's color palette for a cohesive look. And if you want to mix metals, go for it! Here’s a guide on how to style silver and gold!
Experiment and have fun
Fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself, so don't be afraid to try new combinations and find what works best for you. Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to pairing necklaces and necklines – it's all about what makes you feel flipping fabulous!
And there you have it, my friends! Now you're equipped with the know-how to pair necklaces with various necklines like a pro. Remember, experimenting is half the fun, so don't be afraid to try new combinations and find what works best for your personal style.
