Finding the right chain length

The perfect chain length: your guide to the ideal necklace

Which necklace length is right for you?  Choosing the perfect necklace depends on various factors, including your body type, your style preferences and the occasion. In our detailed guide to choosing the ideal necklace length, we show you how to find the right jewelry for your look – from short choker necklaces to long matinee necklaces.

 

Overview of common necklace lengths

Chains are usually divided into the following length sections:
 

• Short chains: 36–40 cm - these are very tight-fitting necklaces. They are also called choker necklaces

• Medium length chains: 42–45 cm - these are necklaces that wrap around the collarbone. They are also known as princess necklaces.

• Long chains: 50–60 cm - these are necklaces that are centered in the décolleté and extend to the neckline. They are also known as matinee necklaces.

• Very long chains: 65–100 cm - these are necklaces that extend beyond the décolleté and can even be looped around the neck twice as a rope chain, depending on the length.

Which chain lengths are most popular?

The right length for your necklace depends entirely on your personal style and the occasion.

• Chain length for women: For women, chain lengths between 42 cm and 50 cm are the most popular – perfect for everyday looks and for beautifully accentuating delicate pendants or medallions.

• Chain length for men: Men usually prefer chain lengths between 50 cm and 60 cm, which reach up to the collarbone.

• Chain length for children: For children, the chain length depends on their age and height; 36 cm to 40 cm is usually a good choice. Make sure that the chain is rather tight on children so that it cannot get caught unintentionally.

How do I find the right chain length?

Finding the right necklace length is easier than you might think. Start by measuring the circumference of your neck with a flexible tape measure or a piece of string that you can measure later. The following tips will help you:
 

• Everyday chain length: A classic chain length (by which we mean close to the neck) is about 5 cm longer than the neck circumference and suits most looks.

• Measure neck circumference: To measure the neck circumference, place a tape around your neck and mark the desired length. It is important that you measure your neck circumference at the base of the neck, where the chain will be. The neck tends to get narrower towards the top :)

• For special occasions or specific outfits: You can of course adjust the length here – be it for an elegant fall to the neckline or a shorter version for a modern style.

If you want to measure the length of a necklace that you already have, lay it flat on a table and simply measure from one end to the other (including the clasp).
 

Is there a formula for the ideal chain length?

There is no fixed formula for the perfect chain length, but the following guideline will help you:

Neck circumference + desired depth = optimum chain length.
Beispiel: Halsumfang 33 cm + 10 cm Falltiefe = ca. 43 cm.
 

When is a necklace too short?

A necklace is considered too short if..

• ..it is uncomfortably tight and constricts the neck. A necklace should always be comfortable to wear and leave enough room to move freely.
• ..the chain pulls on the skin at the slightest movement or feels uncomfortable.
• ..the shutter is constantly twisted.

For a comfortable fit, it should be chosen so that it either fits loosely around the neck or leaves a little room without being too tight.

The purpose of the chain also plays a role: a shorter length is desirable for a choker, while longer chains require a certain distance from the neck so that they do not rest too heavily on the skin. A little more length is particularly beneficial for loose necklines or turtlenecks in winter.
 

Which chain length for which pendant?

The choice of chain length depends heavily on the pendant – both in terms of size and weight.

• Small, delicate pendants: Shorter chains of around 40 to 45 cm are suitable here, as they keep the focus close to the neck and visually emphasize the pendant.

• Larger or heavier trailers: These look best on longer necklaces of 50 cm or more, so that they fall beautifully and visually elongate the décolleté.

• Statement pendants or medallions: Pendants with a special meaning like longer chains. They give the piece of jewelry enough space to stand out.

The balance between chain thickness and pendant size is also important – the thicker the pendant, the more stable the chain should be.
 

Layering necklaces in style – Tips for the perfect look with multiple lengths

Whether delicate chokers, eye-catching statement necklaces or elegant vintage pendants – combining necklaces in different lengths is a trend that is here to stay. With a little sense of style, you can create an individual look that radiates personality in no time at all.

The best thing about chain layering? There are no fixed rules. Different chain lengths, materials, colors and structures can be freely combined – the main thing is that the result matches your own style. If you are still looking for a few pointers, here are some helpful tips for a harmonious and fashionable combination.
 

• Pay attention to your neckline: The choice of chain length should always be coordinated with the outfit. A simple top can be ideally combined with several eye-catching necklaces. If your look is already in focus, minimalist designs or fine chains look stylish and balanced.
• Games with different lengths: The appeal of layering lies in the staggering. A mixture of choker, medium-short chain and longer chain with pendant creates depth and a sophisticated look.
• Combine different types of chains: Different link shapes such as anchor, curb or cord chains add structure to your styling. The combination of fine and eye-catching styles adds excitement and character to the overall look.
• Use colors and metals consciously: If you like it classic, stick to one shade. For a modern twist, however, gold, silver and rose gold can also be skillfully mixed – to create a cool, contemporary style.

Which necklace for short people, short necks or broad shoulders?

First of all: everyone is beautiful! Just as they are :)
If you still want to distract a little from the fact that you are small, have a short neck or broad shoulders, it is best to opt for a necklace that visually stretches and gently balances out the upper body.
In general, the following rules apply:

• Shorter chains: Emphasize the neck and elegantly set the scene. The eye is drawn to the décolleté. This creates an effective contrast, especially with open necklines or high-necked tops.

• Longer chains: Visually stretch the silhouette and look particularly harmonious with figure-hugging clothing or simple outfits.

So if you want to cheat a little longer, you can opt for longer necklaces from around 50 cm. These visually lengthen the neck and create an elegant fit. V-shaped or long, narrow pendants are also advantageous as they draw the eye downwards and create flattering lines.

Short chains or wide necklaces tend to visually shorten the neck and emphasize the shoulders. So you can decide for yourself how you want to show off your necklace :)
 

Which chain length for your girlfriend or boyfriend?

If you want to give a necklace as a gift and are unsure: a 45 cm necklace for women or a 50 cm necklace for men is a classic and almost always fits. These two lengths are our best-selling chain lengths. The reason is simple: they are ideal for everyday use, are comfortable to wear and go with any look :)
 

Conclusion: Which chain length is the best?

The best chain length is the one that suits you. Body proportions, style, occasion and pendant play an important role here. Try out different lengths and use our size guide for orientation. This will help you find the necklace that not only adorns you - but also fits you perfectly.