Choosing the right necklace length is just as important as choosing the right chain style or pendant. The same necklace can look dramatically different at different lengths — and the perfect length depends on your neckline, body type, and personal style.
This guide covers every standard necklace length, where each one falls on the body, and how to choose the right length for any occasion.
Necklace Length Chart
| Length |
Name |
Where It Falls |
Best For |
| 14" | Collar | Tight around the neck | Choker style, formal wear |
| 16" | Choker | Just above the collarbone | Most popular women's length |
| 18" | Princess | At or just below the collarbone | Versatile everyday wear |
| 20" | Matinee (short) | A few inches below the collarbone | Pendants, business casual |
| 22" | Matinee | Above the bust line | Standard men's length |
| 24" | Matinee (long) | At the bust line | Longer pendants, layering |
| 28" – 30" | Opera | At or below the sternum | Dramatic statement pieces |
| 36"+ | Rope | Below the bust, at the waist | Double-wrap, knotting |
The Most Popular Lengths
16 inches is the standard women's necklace length and the most commonly purchased. It sits just above the collarbone and works beautifully with crew necks, scoop necks, and collared shirts. For most women with an average frame, 16 inches is the default starting point.
18 inches is the most versatile length and the most popular choice for diamond pendants and solitaire necklaces. It falls at or just below the collarbone and complements nearly every neckline. If you are unsure what length to choose, 18 inches is a safe bet.
20 inches is popular for both women and men. On women, it creates a slightly longer, more relaxed look. It is also the starting length for many men's chains.
22 inches is the standard men's necklace length. It typically falls just below the collar of a crew neck t-shirt, making it a comfortable and versatile choice for everyday wear.
Choosing Length by Neckline
| Neckline |
Recommended Length |
Why |
| Crew Neck | 18" – 20" | Falls below the neckline for visibility |
| V-Neck | 16" – 20" | Mirrors the V shape; pendant follows the neckline |
| Scoop Neck | 16" – 18" | Shorter lengths fill the open neckline |
| Strapless / Off-Shoulder | 14" – 16" | Shorter lengths highlight exposed collarbone |
| Turtleneck | 24" – 30" | Longer lengths drape over the high neckline |
| Button-Down Shirt | 18" – 22" | Falls neatly between open collar points |
Choosing Length by Body Type
Petite frame: Shorter lengths (14" to 18") tend to be most proportionate. Very long necklaces can overwhelm a smaller frame. If you prefer longer necklaces, stick to delicate chains rather than chunky styles.
Average frame: The full range of lengths works well. Start with 16" or 18" as your baseline and adjust from there based on neckline and personal preference.
Taller or plus-size frame: Longer lengths (18" to 24") often look more proportionate. A 16" choker may look too tight on a longer neck. Consider sizing up 2 inches from the standard recommendation for any style.
How to Measure for the Right Length
The easiest way to find your ideal necklace length:
- Take a piece of string or a soft measuring tape
- Wrap it around your neck at the level where you want the necklace to sit
- Add 2 to 4 inches to the measurement (necklaces should drape, not cling)
- The total is your ideal length
If you already own a necklace at a length you like, simply measure it end-to-end (including the clasp) to find your preferred length.
Men's Necklace Lengths
| Length |
Where It Falls |
Best For |
| 18" | Base of the neck | Shorter/athletic builds, close-fitting |
| 20" | Collarbone area | Average build, most popular |
| 22" | Just below collarbone | Standard men's length |
| 24" | Above the sternum | Larger build, over t-shirts |
| 26" – 30" | Mid-chest and below | Statement or pendant chains |
Layering Necklaces
Layering multiple necklaces is one of the most popular jewelry trends. The key to successful layering:
- Vary the lengths: Space each layer at least 2 inches apart (e.g., 16", 18", 22")
- Mix textures: Combine a delicate chain with a thicker chain or a chain with a pendant
- Keep one focal point: Let one necklace be the statement piece; the others should complement it
- Match metals (or do not): Matching metals creates a polished look; mixing metals creates a trendy, eclectic style
- Avoid tangles: Use a necklace separator or layering clasp to keep multiple chains from twisting together
Pendant Considerations
When buying a necklace for a pendant, remember that the pendant adds length to where the chain sits on your body. A pendant on an 18" chain will hang lower than a plain 18" chain. For pendants, consider ordering a chain 1 to 2 inches shorter than your usual preference, or choose an adjustable chain with a sliding bead or multiple clasp positions.
Browse our diamond necklace collection or explore chain styles to find your perfect combination.