How to choose the right Chain Length: 5 steps to getting it right

You are in the market for a chain or a necklace but you aren’t quite sure what chain length is right for you. Worry not, you are in the right place and we are here to help!

There are several factors to consider when selecting the right chain length for you or a loved one. The standard chain length amongst jewelers is 18 inches. But really there is no set “best” necklace length. The "right" length varies with each individual, their build, their style and their preferences.

Where to start in choosing the right necklace length?

If that sounds like a lot to get on with we have 5 simple steps to follow to get it right. To get started choosing a necklace length, we recommend measuring neck size as you would for a collared shirt. You can then move on to considering factors like face or body type, and when and how the the necklace will be worn.

Maybe you’re here to discover what will work best on you, or maybe you need some help buying the perfect gift for someone else. To help, we’ve included Chain Length Reference Guides below to help you visualize how a particular chain might fall. Whoever you’re shopping for, read on for our five steps to selecting the best necklace chain length for you.

What is the Most Popular Choice of Necklace Length?

The most popular choice of necklace chain length is 18 inches. Ultimately however, the ideal necklace length is specific to each individual. Our reference illustrations below show how chains of different lengths might sit on a woman or man for "average" collar sizes of 13 inches (female) and 14 inches (male). A person with a smaller collar size could expect a chain to sit a little lower, while someone with a larger collar size would see the chain sit higher.

Our five steps to choose the ideal necklace length:

Step 1: Measure Your Neck!

Knowing your neck size is a good start to getting the best chain length for your needs. As you can see from the image above, your neck size will impact on how chains of different length will sit on your neckline.

This is especially important if you are considering a shorter chain or choker style. We recommend using a soft dressmaker's measuring tape to measure your neck. Loop it snugly but not tight around your neck for a comfortable fit. Once you have your neck size - add 2 inches to the number you get for a pendant that would be worn short, 4 inches for an average length pendant that sits in the middle of the neckline, or more for a longer style.

Step 2: Consider the features you would like to compliment

The length of the chain you wear is really down to personal preference and style. But longer chain styles can flatter a taller frame while they may overwhelm a smaller frame. A necklace can be used to accentuate features you like. A short pendant can give the appearance of a more rounded face while a longer V-shaped pendant can draw the eye down giving the appearance of lengthening beautiful features.

Step 3: Think About How You'll Wear It.

But it is not just your features that you may want to compliment, but also your outfit. If you are someone who wears a lot of high neck tops or turtlenecks, perhaps avoid chokers and go for longer chains for pendants that can be worn over this classic style.

If you are looking for something to flatter your collared shirt, consider a shorter chain. For an outfit with a scoop neckline, a shorter chain, or even a layered look with multiple pendants of varying chain length will provide volume and look stylish. The right piece of jewelry can really make all of the difference to your outfit.

Step 4: What would suit the pendant?

This is one people often forget but it can really make the difference. Do you want to wear an unadorned chain or are you looking to pair it with a pendant? Different styles of pendants can suit different chain lengths. Smaller dainty pendants often pair well with shorter chain lengths while chunkier heavyweight pendant styles can handle a longer look.

Step 5: Get in touch

Hopefully you now have a better idea of what chain length you are looking for. However if you are still unsure of your preferred chain length we recommend getting some expert advice! We are here to help. Drop us an email or give us a call and we would be happy to advise you in selecting the right chain length for your needs.