How to Pick the Ideal Necklace for Your Neckline

Selecting the correct necklace can completely change your outfit, turning an ordinary outfit into a statement outfit. Yet, with so many styles, lengths, and designs to choose from, finding your way around the world of necklaces can become daunting. This is particularly so when matching necklaces with various necklines. Whether you're getting dressed up for a night on the town, accessorizing a saree blouse, or just want to dress up your regular wardrobe, knowing how to combine necklace and neckline is essential. In this complete guide, we'll take you by the hand and teach you how to choose the best necklace, so you can always present your best (and prettiest) neck forward.

Getting Familiar with the Fundamentals: Necklace Lengths and Types

Before getting into neckline match-ups, let's get to know typical necklace lengths and styles. This will serve as a basis for making well-informed decisions.

Collar (12-14 inches): These rest close to the neck, usually made of multiple strands. They go best with open necklines.
Choker (14-16 inches): A timeless and all-purpose length that sits right at the base of the neck. Chokers can be made of any number of materials, ranging from dainty chains to eye-catching statement pieces.
Princess (17-19 inches): This is a length that suits everyone, falling elegantly on the collarbone. It's a favorite for pendants and can be paired with almost any neckline.
Matinee (20-24 inches): Longer than a princess length, the matinee falls between the collarbone and the bust. It's great for low necklines and will add a hint of sophistication.
Opera (28-34 inches): This sophisticated length can be worn as a single long chain or doubled over for a layered look. It pairs well with high necklines and adds drama to evening wear.
Lariat (longer than 34 inches): These long necklaces have many ways that they can be worn, such as looped, knotted, or wrapped. They look especially beautiful with deep V-necks.
Haram (Long Necklace): In India, "haram" is used to describe long, usually complex necklaces. These may be simple single strands or multi-stranded pieces with complex designs, gemstones, and traditional motifs. Harams are a part of bridal and festive dressing.
The Golden Rules: Pairs of Necklaces with Necklines

Now, let's get to the nitty-gritty of matching necklaces with various necklines:

1. Round Neck:

There is a soft, rounded shape to the round neckline. The aim here is to select a necklace which either reflects the curve or makes an impact by contrasting.

Best Picks:
Chokers: Sit beautifully just above the neckline, highlighting the neck.
Princess Length Pendants: Trace the contour of the neckline without doubling up. Choose a pendant that falls just below the collarbone.
Short Multi-Strand Necklaces: Provide texture and visual appeal while enhancing the rounded shape.
Considerations: Shallow necklaces that fight with the neckline are to be avoided.

2. V-Neck

The angular V-neckline requires a necklace either to mirror the "V" shape or break it up with a pendant that drops into the V.

Best Options:
V-Shaped Pendants: A pendant repeating the angle of the V-neckline has a harmonious and lengthening effect.
Slim Chains with a Small Pendant: Sit comfortably in the V without overpowering.
Short Layered Necklaces: Can occupy the area left vacant by the V without conflicting.
Considerations: Steer clear of chunky or wide necklaces that will get lost or fight with the sharp angle of the neckline.

3. Scoop Neck:

Scoop necks are just like round necks but lower and more open. This provides more flexibility in necklace options.

Best Choices:
Chokers: Are fine, particularly if the scoop isn't too deep.
Princess Length Necklaces: Rest comfortably in the open area.
Matinee Length Necklaces: May enhance a deeper scoop with a touch of elegance.
Statement Necklaces: The open neckline is an ideal canvas on which to feature a showy piece.
Considerations: Take note of the scoop's depth; an extremely deep scoop may look more flattering with a longer necklace.

4. Square Neck:

The crisp, angularness of a square neckline is complemented by necklaces that either replicate the shape or provide a softer contrast.

Top Picks:
Angular Pendants: Pendants featuring geometric forms or sharp lines can be paired with the neckline.
Chokers with Definition: Chokers with a more defined shape can prove to be good options.
Short Necklaces with Graduated Components: Can break the angularness while providing visual interest.
Considerations: Steer clear of excessively round or fragile necklaces that could be lost against the bold lines of the square neckline.

5. Sweetheart Neck:

Romantic neckline in the shape of the top half of a heart. Typically found on bridal gowns and formal attire.

Best Options:
Round or Pear-Shaped Pendants: Tone down the heart shape and focus attention on the décolletage.
Short, Delicate Necklaces: Rest just above the curve of the neckline.
Chokers: Work if they are not too dominating.
Considerations: Steer clear of necklaces with an extremely pointed V-shape that could conflict with the curves of the sweetheart neckline.

6. High Neck (Crew Neck, Turtleneck):

High necklines expose minimal skin, so longer necklaces are the best bet.

Best Picks:
Opera Length Necklaces: Make a dramatic and sophisticated look. They can be worn long or doubled up.
Long Pendants: Provide a focal point and stretch out the torso.
Statement Necklaces (draped over a basic turtleneck): Can elevate a basic outfit into a stylish one.
Considerations: Steer clear of short necklaces that can become lost or uneasy against the high neckline.

7. Boat Neck (Bateau Neck):

Boat necks are broad and flat, going almost up to the shoulders. They have the tendency to make the neck appear shorter.

Best Picks:
Long Pendant Necklaces: Can aid in creating a vertical line and lengthening the neck.
Delicate Layered Necklaces: Can provide subtle interest without overwhelming the neckline.
Considerations: Steer clear of wide or chunky necklaces that can further shorten the neck.

8. Off-the-Shoulder Neckline:

This sophisticated neckline frames the shoulders and collarbone, creating a stunning canvas for necklaces.

Best Choices:
Chokers: Highlight the bared neckline and collarbone.
Princess Length Necklaces: Rest beautifully on the décolletage.
Statement Necklaces: Can add a touch of glamour and sparkle.
Considerations: Be careful with the size and style of your earrings; select a necklace that complements them without being too busy.
Necklaces for the Indian Ensemble: Specific Considerations

When dressing necklaces with Indian wear, especially sarees and blouses, there are specific factors to keep in mind

Necklace for Saree Blouse: The neckline of your saree blouse plays a crucial role in necklace selection. High-neck blouses pair well with long harams or statement pendants. Deep neck blouses offer more versatility, allowing for chokers, princess necklaces, and layered styles. Boat neck blouses benefit from longer necklaces that draw the eye downwards.
Choker or Long Haram: Sometimes, the decision between a choker and a long haram boils down to the occasion and the entire look you desire. Chokers create a touch of sophistication and contemporary charm, whereas long harams impart vintage magnificence. For weddings, combining a choker with a longer haram is a favored and beautiful option.
Best Deep Neck Necklace: When you have a deep neckline (plunge V-neck or low scoop neckline), you can opt for necklaces that fit the space nicely without appearing overwhelming. Layered, statement pendants that take the shape of the neckline, or even a thin single strand can look stunning.

Last Thoughts: Confidence is the Best Accessory

Although these rules form a good basis for selecting the ideal necklace, don't forget personal style and confidence come first. Play around with various combinations, go with your gut, and above all, wear what you think is stunning. No matter if it is a dainty choker for an everyday outing or a stunning haram for a lavish party, the perfect necklace can transform your look and express your individuality. So, browse our stunning range and find out which ones will beautifully frame your neck and take your fashion to the next level!