Whether you’re adding the finishing touch to your outfit or searching for a gift with meaning, finding the right necklace can elevate your entire look. With so many styles, lengths, and materials to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’ve rounded up 10 expert-backed tips to help you choose the perfect necklace for any occasion. From flattering your face shape to layering like a pro, these tips will have you styling your jewellery with confidence.
1. Know Your Neckline
Your outfit’s neckline plays a huge role in determining the most flattering necklace style. As a general rule:
- V-necks pair beautifully with pendants that mimic the shape.
- Scoop necks work well with round, shorter necklaces or layered styles.
- Strapless or off-the-shoulder looks shine with chokers or collar-length pieces.
- High necks (like turtlenecks) are ideal for longer, statement necklaces.
Understanding this harmony between neckline and necklace can instantly elevate your style.
2. Consider Your Face Shape
Just like choosing the right haircut, selecting a necklace that complements your face shape can highlight your best features.
- Round faces benefit from longer, pendant-style necklaces that create length.
- Oval faces are versatile and suit almost any necklace style.
- Square faces look great with rounded or curved necklace shapes that soften strong jawlines.
- Heart-shaped faces shine with shorter necklaces or chokers that balance a narrow chin.
3. Match the Necklace to the Occasion
Your necklace should reflect the vibe of where you’re headed:
- Everyday wear: Simple pendants, delicate chains or minimalist designs.
- Work or business settings: Classic and understated—think pearls or fine metals.
- Evenings and events: Don’t be afraid to go bold with statement pieces, layers, or sparkling details.
The right necklace can make your outfit feel intentional, polished, and appropriate.
4. Choose the Right Length
Necklace length can dramatically change how your jewellery sits and what part of your body it draws attention to:
- Choker (35–40 cm): Sits tightly around the neck, perfect for off-shoulder or high-neck outfits.
- Princess (45–50 cm): A versatile length that suits almost everything.
- Matinée (55–65 cm): Great for high necklines and workwear.
- Opera (70–90 cm): Elegant and dramatic, perfect for formal occasions or layering.
- Rope (90 cm and over): Can be worn doubled, knotted, or draped for a statement effect.
5. Pay Attention to Proportion
Balance is key when choosing jewellery. Consider your body frame, height, and even your outfit’s pattern:
- Petite frames often suit more delicate or shorter necklaces.
- Taller or curvier figures can carry bold or chunky pieces effortlessly.
- Avoid combining large necklaces with heavily patterned tops—let one element be the star.
Think of your necklace as an accent, not a distraction.
6. Factor in Your Personal Style
Your jewellery should feel like you. Are you drawn to timeless elegance, boho charm, edgy trends, or minimalist chic?
- Classic: Pearls, gold chains, and subtle pendants.
- Boho: Natural stones, layered beads, and earthy tones.
- Edgy: Chains, geometric shapes, and mixed metals.
- Minimalist: Sleek lines, fine chains, and dainty details.
Choose pieces that resonate with your personality—you’ll wear them with more confidence.
7. Think About Layering
Layering necklaces is a fun way to express creativity and add depth to your look:
- Mix different lengths (e.g. choker + princess + matinée).
- Combine textures (e.g. a beaded strand with a metal pendant).
- Stick to a theme—like all gold, or all celestial charms—to keep it cohesive.
Tip: Start with a base chain and build around it to avoid tangling or overpowering your neckline.
8. Consider Skin Tone and Metal Type
Different metals and gemstones flatter different skin tones:
- Cool undertones (pink or blue): Silver, white gold, and cool-toned gemstones like sapphire, amethyst, or emerald.
- Warm undertones (yellow or olive): Yellow gold, rose gold, and stones like citrine, garnet, or turquoise.
- Neutral tones: Lucky you—you can wear almost anything!
Matching your necklace to your skin tone enhances your natural glow.
9. Quality Over Quantity
It’s tempting to collect heaps of trendy necklaces, but a few high-quality pieces will serve you better in the long run.
- Look for well-made clasps, solid chains, and reputable materials.
- Avoid plated metals that tarnish quickly unless you’re only wearing them occasionally.
- Invest in timeless designs that can transition from day to night effortlessly.
A quality necklace not only looks better—it lasts longer and feels more special.
10. Don’t Forget Comfort
If you’re wearing a necklace all day, comfort is non-negotiable:
- Opt for lightweight styles for everyday wear.
- Check that chains won’t snag your hair or clothing.
- Be mindful of metal allergies—hypoallergenic options like sterling silver or surgical steel are worth considering.
Your necklace should feel as good as it looks.
Choosing the perfect necklace is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about how it makes you feel. Whether you’re dressing for a special event or adding sparkle to your daily routine, these 10 tips will help you find pieces that complement your style, body, and personality.
Have a favourite tip—or your own go-to necklace trick? Let us know in the comments below!