The Ultimate Necklace Length Chart Guide: Choosing the Perfect Fit for Every Style
When it comes to wearing a necklace, the length matters just as much as the design. The right necklace length can frame your face, complement your outfit, and elevate your overall look — while the wrong one can throw off your proportions or clash with your neckline. That’s why having a reliable necklace length chart is essential for making confident, stylish choices.
At Vermont Gem Lab, we believe that beautiful, handcrafted jewelry should also fit beautifully. In this guide, we’ll break down standard necklace lengths, show you how they look on different people, explain how to choose the best length for various styles, and walk you through how to custom-fit your perfect necklace.
Understanding Standard Necklace Lengths
Necklace lengths are typically measured in inches and categorized into standard ranges. These ranges serve as useful guidelines when purchasing or designing a new necklace — especially when shopping online or ordering a custom piece.
Here is a simple necklace length chart that outlines the most common lengths and how they typically fall on the body:
| Length (inches) | Name | Placement on Body |
|---|---|---|
| 14” | Choker | Tightly around the neck |
| 16” | Collar | Base of the neck |
| 18” | Princess | On the collarbone |
| 20” | Matinee Short | Just below the collarbone |
| 22” | Matinee | Top of the bust |
| 24” | Opera Short | Center of the bust |
| 28–36” | Opera | Between bust and below |
| 36”+ | Rope/Lariat | Can be doubled or knotted; dramatic |
How to Use the Necklace Length Chart
Knowing the standard lengths is one thing — choosing the right one for you is another. Factors like body shape, neck size, height, and personal style all influence how a necklace sits and what flatters you most.
Neck Size
For chokers or collar-length necklaces, neck size is crucial. If your neck is fuller, a 14-inch choker may feel too tight. Always measure your neck circumference and add 2 inches for a comfortable choker fit.
Height
Shorter necklaces (16–18 inches) often flatter petite frames, while longer lengths (20+ inches) elongate the look of taller individuals.
Face Shape
- Round faces benefit from longer necklaces that create vertical lines.
- Heart-shaped faces look great with chokers or shorter princess styles.
- Oval faces can wear virtually any necklace length with ease.
- Square faces are softened by rounded necklace designs that fall lower on the neckline.
Choosing Necklace Lengths for Different Necklines
Pairing your necklace with the right neckline enhances both your outfit and your jewelry. Here’s a quick reference:
| Neckline | Ideal Necklace Length |
|---|---|
| V-neck | 16–20" pendant or Y-shape |
| Crew neck | 16" or statement collar |
| Strapless/Sweetheart | 16–18" (princess or choker) |
| Turtleneck | 20–24" or layered opera |
| Scoop/Boat neck | 18–24" to follow the curve |
| Button-down shirt | 16–18" inside collar or long pendant outside |
Wearing a custom-designed necklace from Vermont Gem Lab allows you to choose a length that harmonizes perfectly with your favorite neckline and overall aesthetic.
Custom Necklace Sizing at Vermont Gem Lab
At Vermont Gem Lab, we believe your jewelry should fit your style and your body. That’s why we offer custom sizing options for all our handcrafted necklaces. Whether you’re designing something new or adjusting the length of an existing piece, we work with you to ensure a comfortable, flattering, and stylish fit.
Our custom process begins with a consultation, where we consider:
- Your preferred chain style and thickness
- Desired pendant positioning
- How you intend to wear or layer the piece
- Practical comfort (especially for daily wear or layering)
We offer flexible sizing for every piece, allowing you to personalize your necklace down to the inch — and to add adjustable elements so it fits more than one look.
Layering Necklaces: How to Mix Lengths Like a Pro
Layering is a popular trend, and having a necklace length chart helps you plan combinations that work. Here’s a simple layering formula:
- Step 1: Start with a 14–16" choker or collar necklace.
- Step 2: Add an 18" princess-length pendant.
- Step 3: Finish with a 22–24" chain or lariat.
Each piece should have a slightly different texture, pendant shape, or charm to avoid visual clutter. Stick with metals that complement each other (sterling silver with sterling silver, or mix metals intentionally).
Want to build a layered set from scratch? Our jewelers at Vermont Gem Lab can help you create a cohesive trio or quartet of necklaces designed to work beautifully together.
Tips for Measuring Yourself at Home
To determine your perfect necklace length without trying one on, follow these easy steps:
- Use a flexible tape measure or a string and ruler.
- Wrap around your neck and hold the string down where you'd like the necklace to fall.
- Measure the length in inches — this is your ideal necklace length.
- Add 2 inches for layering purposes if you're stacking necklaces.
If you’re unsure, you can always reach out to our team for sizing advice. We’re here to ensure your new necklace sits exactly where you want it to.
Common Questions About Necklace Lengths
Q: What's the most common necklace length?
A: The most common length for women is 18 inches (princess length), which typically sits at the collarbone and suits most outfits and face shapes.
Q: Can I get adjustable necklace lengths?
A: Absolutely. Many of our custom necklaces at Vermont Gem Lab include extension chains, which allow for a 2–4 inch adjustment.
Q: What’s a good necklace length for gifting?
A: When in doubt, 18 inches is a safe and flattering choice. It's universally popular and works well with pendants, charms, and various necklines.
See Our Work in Action
Curious how different necklace lengths look in real designs? Browse our gallery to see a range of handcrafted necklaces at various lengths. Each piece demonstrates how thoughtful design and precise measurement work together to create wearable art.
The Vermont Gem Lab Difference
What sets Vermont Gem Lab apart is our dedication to craftsmanship, comfort, and personalization. We don’t just sell jewelry — we shape pieces around your lifestyle, taste, and desired fit.
Whether you want a minimalist silver chain, a layered gemstone set, or a customized statement necklace, our artisans ensure the sizing and style are just right. Contact us to start your personalized necklace journey today.
Style begins with the perfect fit. With this necklace length chart and expert guidance from Vermont Gem Lab, you can wear your jewelry with confidence, comfort, and elegance every day.