Discover the Latest Necklace Styles and Find Your Perfect Match

Necklaces are designed to make a statement, but where do you begin pairing your statement with the necklace style that compliments it? What qualities matter the most to you in a necklace?

Whether you’re looking for a classic piece or something more modern, we have created a guide filled with the latest trends in chains that will make heads turn. You'll be surprised by all the different necklace styles available.

So Many Necklace Styles to Choose From

From thin, delicate chains to bold and bulky statement pieces, a wide selection of necklace styles is available. Whether you prefer the minimalistic look of chokers, the glamorous look of statement necklaces, or the classic feel of pendants, you will find something that suits your style.

22 Necklace Styles

Below are 22 different necklace styles to help you decide on your next jewelry purchase. So, take your time and find one that fits perfectly with your look.

Collar

A collar is a statement necklace. Most collars are made of metal and decorated with jewels or stones. Collar necklaces are perfect for formal evening looks. They pair perfectly with turtlenecks, boat necks, and V-necks. Collars are usually 12 to 13 inches long and worn close to the neck.

Choker

A choker is a short necklace that sits directly on your collarbone and ranges from 14 to 16 inches long. We love that the choker can add flare to jeans and a t-shirt or doll up an evening gown. It is an elegant piece that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Chokers come in a variety of styles, such as pearls, diamonds, and even velvet.

Pendant

A pendant is a small accessory that hangs from a chain. Pick the pendant that reflects the things you care about. For instance, you can choose a cat pendant with the letter of your pal's first name.

Wear it on a long chain or short choker-style necklace for different looks. Pendants are statement pieces that represent who you are, what you love, or what you stand for.

Princess Necklace

The princess is a longer necklace that falls below the collarbone. It usually ranges from 18 to 24 inches in length. We love that it works perfectly for adding your favorite charms, pendants, and other statement pieces. The length of the necklace makes it ideal for stacking with other necklaces to create a unique look for your next formal occasion.

Riviere

The Riviere necklace features multiple stones or pearls linked together and is usually worn with a pendant. The jewels shrink as the necklace gets closer to the back of the neck. It comes in a 16 or 12-inch length and is perfect for formal occasions.

Lariat

A lariat necklace is a long, closed loop that hangs down to the waistline. It looks great when paired with low-cut tops. A lariat can be adorned with charms, beads, and pendants for a unique look. It is usually 20 to 32 inches long and can be worn as one big loop or two separate loops.

Locket

A locket is a small keepsake charm that hangs from a necklace. Lockets come in many styles, such as heart-shaped, oval, and round. What makes lockets so special is that you can insert pictures of someone you love.

Think of the locket as an everyday all-purpose piece of jewelry. Let it be the conversation starter of the day. It is the perfect way to carry that special someone with you no matter where you go.

Opera

The opera necklace is a statement piece worn on formal occasions. It usually falls below the waistline and ranges from 28 to 35 inches long. It usually comes adorned with large jewels and stones that make a bold statement. The opera necklace looks great when paired with evening gowns or cocktail dresses.

Plastron

The plastron is another elegant necklace for formal occasions. It is a shorter necklace that falls just below the clavicle and is usually 16 to 25 inches in length. It is best paired with plunging necklines or open-collar shirts for the perfect look. Plastrons are available as pearls, wood, beads, metal, diamonds, and gemstones.

Sautoir

The sautoir necklace is a long, rope-like necklace that usually falls below the waistline. Decorate it with charms, beads, and pendants. It is the absolute necklace for layering with shorter necklaces or wearing alone for a dramatic look. It usually ranges from 28 to 40 inches in length. If you are feeling creative, you can even loop it around your wrist as a bracelet.

Rope

The rope necklace is versatile and can work for formal and casual events. It usually ranges from 16 to 36 inches in length. You can add charms to this necklace to compliment your style. Or you can wear the rope alone for a more casual fit. The rope-style chain looks great when paired with low-cut necklines or dresses.

Thread

Thread necklaces are made of string and are usually simple with minimal embellishments. Wear it as a single necklace or layer it with other necklaces for a unique look. Thread necklaces are great for everyday wear and are available in neutral or bright bold colors. They range from 16 to 20 inches in length and come in many gorgeous materials and styles.

Need help wrapping your necklace as a gift? Check out How to Wrap a Necklace: No Box? No Problem for more information.

Graduated

The graduated necklace features stones or beads that gradually increase in size as they work their way around the neck. It gives off a subtle yet elegant look and is usually 16 to 20 inches long. The graduated necklace looks excellent with scoop necklines and suits all face shapes.

Torque

The torque necklace style is one of those timeless pieces that will never lose its relevance. This short necklace falls just below the collarbone and usually ranges from 16 to 24 inches. It is a decent choice for formal occasions.

Pair it with low-cut necklines or open-collar shirts to make a style statement. The torque necklace designs usually center gold, silver, and gemstones.

Bib

The bib necklace is a statement piece that takes your look to the next level. It usually falls just below the collarbone and ranges from 16 to 30 in length. It is best paired with plunging necklines for the perfect look.

A bib necklace comprises various materials, such as beads, pearls, and gemstones. They are delicate, meaning they don't hold up well for everyday wear but are great for special occasions.

Chain

The chain necklace is a classic piece that can complement any lifestyle. It usually ranges from 16 to 30 inches in length. Most chains are made of gold, silver, or other metals. Chain necklaces are available in styles such as links, snakes, or beads. The chain necklace is ideal for layering with other necklaces or wearing alone for a simple yet stylish look.

Festoon

The Festoon necklace is another fun piece that works with any style—calling all divas for this one. The Festoon usually ranges from 16 to 28 in length. This daring necklace features a bold design, traditionally covered in beads, pearls, and jewels. The festoon necklace is perfect for adding a touch of glamor to any look.

For the festoon necklace to sit properly, the first chain should be worn as a choker, and the rest of the necklace should hang on the collarbone. This necklace looks best when paired with off-the-shoulder evening wear. However, if worn with clothing that has a higher neckline, the longer sections may become twisted or distorted.

Lavalier

The Lavalier necklace usually ranges from 16 to 24 inches long and is embellished with multiple beads and jewels. This style of necklace looks great when paired with low-cut necklines. The Lavalier necklace is an excellent choice if you want to make a boho appearance.

You can wear the Lavalier necklace with other necklaces or alone for a classic yet stylish look. It is a fantastic choice for everyday wear and special occasions alike.

Matinee

The matinee necklace is the perfect choice for making a statement. It usually falls at the bustline and ranges from 20 to 22 inches in length. This style of chain is generally graced with pearls and jewels. We love that it works as a casual and corporate piece of jewelry. It adds flare without being overbearing.

The matinee necklace looks great when paired with low-cut necklines but can also work with higher necklines for a more demure look. It is an excellent choice for formal occasions and can be dolled up or down depending on your plans for the night.

Matinée necklaces are longer than princess length but shorter than opera length and are perfect for stacking with other jewelry. These necklaces draw attention to the chest area. If you want to insinuate your chest, this is an excellent addition to high necklines and turtlenecks.

Multi-Colored String

The multi-colored string necklace is a fun way to add a touch of your unique character to any look. The chain is usually made of multiple threads and ranges from 16 to 36 inches long. It is a creative way to add color to any outfit and looks best when paired with lower necklines. The multi-colored string necklace is perfect for everyday wear and casual events.

Religious

Religious necklaces let you share your faith with the world. Look for them to be between 16 to 36 inches in length. These necklaces usually feature symbols or scripture comprising gold, silver, or stainless steel. They look good when paired with lower or higher necklines. The religious necklace is perfect for any occasion, even for everyday wear.

Statement

The statement necklace is the perfect way to add some glamor to your look. These necklaces usually range from 16 to 36 inches long. Choose the chain that speaks to your style. It doesn't matter if it has feathers, beads, pendants, pearls, or jewels.

You can wear it with a lower neckline on those late nights. Or wear it with a higher neckline for a more modest look. The statement necklace is perfect for any occasion.

Necklace Style Material Types

Necklace materials range from gold and silver to stainless steel, leather, beads, and pearls. Choose the necklace material that you love the most. Pick one you feel proud to wear. Gold and silver are luxurious materials that look great with formal attire. Leather is a superb option for casual occasions. Leather necklaces are pretty durable.

Beads are bright and can add a more playful and eye-catching look to your ensemble. In fact, you can wear a neutral outfit and dress it up with beads. Pearls, on the other hand, are best used to create a more elegant look.

Not to mention, pearls can quickly tarnish. So, wearing them on special occasions is best. They are that friend every girl has whether she wears them or not. No matter what your style, there is sure to be a necklace material that suits it.

Upset because your favorite necklace is broken? Check out How to Fix A Broken Necklace so you can get back to wearing your prized heirloom.

Your Style, Your Statement

As you can see, you have so many necklaces to choose from. You can choose a classic and modern necklace for daily wear. Or you can go with the elegant style for special occasions.

No matter what type of necklace you are looking for, there is sure to be something perfect for you. Or you can experiment and go with a chain that combines all three styles. So, take the time to discover the latest necklace styles and find your ideal match.

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