Photo par Auteur inconnu via Rawpixel (CC CC0 1.0)In short:
- The four length benchmarks are 35 to 40 cm for a choker, 42 to 45 cm below the collarbone, 50 to 60 cm at the sternum, 70 cm and above for opera length.
- The length to order is derived from the measured neck circumference plus the drop you want.
- When layering, leave at least 4 to 5 cm between two chains so they do not cross.
- A heavy pendant pulls the necklace down a few centimetres below its stated length.
Lengths and where they actually fall
| Length | Common name | Where it falls |
|---|---|---|
| 35 to 40 cm | Choker | At the base of the neck, in contact |
| 42 to 45 cm | Princess | Just below the collarbone |
| 50 to 60 cm | Matinee | At the sternum |
| 70 cm and above | Opera | Below the bust |
These benchmarks assume an average neck circumference. A larger neck shifts every length upwards: a 45 cm that falls below the collarbone on one person behaves like a choker on another.
Measure before ordering
- Wrap a tape measure around the base of the neck, without tightening.
- Note the measurement, that is the neck circumference.
- Add the drop you want: 2 to 5 cm for a choker, 10 to 15 cm for a drop below the collarbone, 20 cm and above for a matinee.
With no soft tape, a string measured afterwards with a ruler gives the same result.
What a pendant changes
A pendant adds its own height and pulls the chain down. On a heavy design, count a few centimetres more than the stated length. Fine chains, for their part, distort under an overly massive pendant.
Layering without tangling
The rule comes down to one figure: 4 to 5 cm minimum between two lengths. Below that, chains cross at the first movement.
Three combinations that work:
- The progressive trio: 40 cm, 45 cm, 50 cm.
- The contrast duo: a 38 cm choker and a 70 cm opera, with nothing in between.
- The thickness duo: two close lengths but chains of different gauges, one fine link and one wider.
Mixing metals, silver and gold plating, works fine provided the contrast is deliberate rather than an approximate match.
Clasps and extenders
An extender chain, usually 3 to 5 cm, lets a single necklace move from choker to collarbone drop. It is the detail that prevents a length mistake at purchase.
Frequently asked questions
What necklace length should you choose?
35 to 40 cm for a choker, 42 to 45 cm below the collarbone, 50 to 60 cm at the sternum, 70 cm and above for opera length.
How do you layer several necklaces without tangling?
Keep at least 4 to 5 cm between each length and vary the chain thicknesses.
How do you measure your neck for a necklace?
With a tape measure at the base of the neck, then add the drop you want.