Necklace lengths explained, from choker to lariat
What each length actually looks like on, which necklines they suit, and how to choose without a tape measure.
Necklace length is the difference between a piece you wear constantly and one that never leaves the box. The numbers in a listing mean very little until you know where they sit, so here is each standard length translated into where it lands on the body.
The standard lengths
- 35–37 cm — collar. Sits tight at the base of the neck. Dramatic, best on open necklines.
- 40–42 cm — choker. Rests at the hollow of the throat. Flattering on almost everyone and the easiest starting point.
- 45 cm — princess. The most common length sold. Falls just below the collarbone, where a pendant naturally sits.
- 50–55 cm — matinee. Lands between the collarbone and the bust. Good over knitwear and shirts.
- 60–70 cm — opera. Sits at or below the bust; can be doubled into a two-layer choker.
- 75 cm and above — rope or lariat. Long enough to knot, wrap or layer several ways.
Matching length to neckline
The rule that works nearly always: echo the neckline, do not fight it. A V-neck wants a pendant that sits inside the V — 45 cm usually. A crew or boat neck wants something above it, so 40 cm or shorter, or something long enough to clear it entirely at 55 cm plus. A collared shirt is best with a choker worn under the collar or a long chain over it, never a 45 cm chain competing with the collar edge.
Choosing without measuring
Take a piece of string, hold it where you want the necklace to fall, and measure that length doubled plus a little for the clasp. Or simpler: find a necklace you own and love, measure it, and buy that length again. Most people own exactly one length that suits them and keep buying it by accident.
A note on layering
Keep about 5 cm between layers and they will not tangle. Our full guide to layering goes further, but that single number does most of the work.