How to find the right chain length
A necklace can complete an entire outfit – but only if the length is right. Too short, and the necklace might feel tight or sit awkwardly on your neck. Too long, and the pendant might get lost in your clothes. Fortunately, finding the right length is easy when you know what to look for. Here, we'll go through the most common necklace lengths, how to measure at home, and which length suits different jewelry and occasions.
How to measure
Home
- Use a measuring tape or string around your neck where you want the necklace to fall
- Don't pull too tight – the necklace should hang naturally, not sit snugly
- Add a few centimeters if you want the necklace to hang a little looser than your neck measurement
- Compare with the table above to find the correct category
Do you have a necklace you already like? Measure it laid flat from clasp to clasp for an even more precise starting point.
What length suits what?
For Everyday Wear
For women, 40–42 cm is often the most versatile length – it usually falls around the collarbone and suits most necklines and outfits. This length works well for both simple pendants and plain chains, and is a safe choice if you are unsure.
For Statement and Special Occasions
Longer necklaces, from 60 cm and upwards, create a more dramatic look and work well as a standalone eye-catcher – often without a pendant. Our Sculpt Necklace in 70 cm is a good example of a necklace designed for exactly this – a long, modern look that can be worn alone or styled with shorter necklaces.
For Layered Styling
If you want to combine several necklaces at once, variation in length is key. Feel free to combine a shorter length with a princess-length necklace and a longer necklace for a balanced, layered look. Both the Orbit Necklace and the Shine Necklace, both 60 cm, are great for styling with shorter necklaces for exactly this purpose.
For a Vintage or Classic Look
Shorter necklaces around 40–45 cm provide a discreet and classic look that sits close to the neck. An example is this vintage silver necklace at 44 cm from Arven Vintage – a timeless length that has been popular for generations.
Please feel free to ask us for advice!
Tips for choosing the right one
Consider the neckline of your outfit. A round neckline often accommodates several lengths, while a deep V-neck often suits a necklace that follows its downward line.
Consider the pendant. A large pendant usually needs a bit more length to "breathe", while a small pendant often looks best with a shorter length.
Feel free to combine several lengths. Layering necklaces of different lengths is a simple way to create a personal expression without the necklaces overlapping or tangling.
Adjustable length is a good solution if you're unsure. Many of our necklaces have an extension chain, allowing you to adjust where the necklace falls.
The correct chain length is primarily about where you want the chain to fall and what you will use it for. Feel free to measure a necklace you already like as a starting point, and use the table above as a simple guide next time you are choosing a new one.
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