What Is the Standard Necklace Length?

Most necklaces are between 16 and 20 inches. This length looks flattering on most heights and can be paired with practically any outfit.

Does Necklace Length Matter?

Necklace length does matter. The necklace length you choose determines where your necklace will sit on your neckline. A necklace that’s too long or too short can be unflattering or clash with your outfit.

Necklace Length Chart

Use this necklace size chart to see how different necklace lengths typically fit. Keep in mind that neck width, gender, height, and body size can impact where each necklace length falls on you.

14 inch

A 14-inch necklace fits like a choker for most. This is an easy necklace length to layer with longer chains.

16 inch

A 16-inch necklace usually sits above the collarbone, at the base of the neck. This is the shortest necklace length as anything below is considered a choker.

18 inch

18 inches is the most popular necklace length and tends to dangle on the collarbone. This length suits most necklace designs and outfits.

20 inch

20-inch necklaces will dangle just below the collarbone and pair well with higher necklines. Most men’s necklaces start at this length.

22 inch

22-inch necklaces typically sit at the start of your bust and beneath the collarbone for men.

24 inch

24-inch necklaces fall below the bust for women and at the top of the sternum for men. This length is typically the longest necklace length for women. It’s great for layering or for those who prefer necklaces that drape.

30 inch

30-inch necklaces often fall at the stomach. Most women choose to double over these necklaces to create a layered effect instead of wearing them as is.

How to Measure Your Necklace Length

An easy way to find the ideal necklace length for you is to measure your neck with measuring tape. Simply wrap the tape snugly around your neck and note your measurement.

Use this measurement to determine the ideal length for you for each type of necklace. People often add two inches to find their ideal choker length and four inches for their standard necklace length.

If you prefer to visually see your measurements, wrap the tape measure around your neck. Drape it looser or tighter, like a necklace, until you find your desired necklace length.

You can also determine your ideal necklace length by measuring your favorite necklace. Simply lay the necklace out flat and use the tape measure to find its length.

Which Necklace Lengths Look Best

The best necklace length depends on the design and you. Your neck width, height, and style will determine which necklace length looks best on you.

Best Necklace Length for Everyday Wear

A necklace between 16-18 inches for women and 20 inches for men will look best for everyday wear. Necklaces that fall from the base of your neck to the bottom of your clavicle are easy to pair with any outfit.

Your style also determines the best chain length for everyday wear. Some people prefer to wear chokers while others prefer to wear layers of pearls. It’s up to you.

Best Chain Length for Pendants

Most people prefer pendants to dangle just below their collarbone so a 6-18 inch chain usually looks best for pendants. The best chain length, however, is the one that achieves your desired fit.

Best Chain Length for Men

Most men’s necklaces range from 20-36 inches. Many men prefer a 22-24 inch chain, but your fit preference determines the best chain length for you.

Average Necklace Length for Women

The average necklace length for women is 18 inches. But most women’s necklaces are between 16-20 inches.

How to Choose The Right Necklace Length

Consider the following to choose the right necklace length for you.

Neck Width

Your neck width will help you determine which necklace length looks the most flattering on you.

“Some people have narrower necks so they can opt for shorter lengths. Other people have wider necks and want a little more length for a comfortable fit,” explains Grace Taylor, VRAI’s Sr. Director of Sales & CX.

Styling

How you style your necklace also dictates the ideal length. “You should think about whether you’re wearing the piece with something else. If so, it’s best to opt for a different length than the piece you’ll pair it with to prevent tangling,” Taylor advises.

You can also consider what outfit you’re wearing, particularly the neckline of that outfit. Your necklace length should compliment your outfit, not interfere or clash with it.

Comfort

Consider the most comfortable place for your necklace to sit so that it doesn’t get in the way of your day-to-day activities. Opt for the necklace length that is most comfortable and flattering for you.

“On most people, 16-18” is going to hit right at the collarbone or just below it while 18-20” will hit more chest-level,” Taylor says. “Do you want something that will sit above your collar? Go with something shorter. Would you prefer it hangs over? Go slightly longer.”

Body Type

Necklaces can be used to attract attention to certain parts of your body and to compliment your features. The wrong length will do the opposite. Consider your height and body type when choosing a necklace length.

Where the necklace rests is where people will look. If you have a fuller bust, a necklace that hits in the middle of your bust, or just below it, may not be ideal for you. But those with smaller busts may prefer longer necklaces.

For average and tall heights, any necklace length works. If you’re particularly tall, you may prefer longer necklaces to highlight your proportions. If you’re petite, medium to short necklaces will look proportionate to your frame but long necklaces can overpower you.

Face Shape

Consider your face shape when choosing a necklace length. Necklaces can also be used to enhance your favorite facial features.

If you have an oval face, any necklace length will look great on you. But chokers and short necklaces aren’t particularly flattering for people with rounder faces. Necklaces that are longer than 18” will elongate your face, however.

People with heart-shaped faces can use chokers and necklaces under 18” to balance out the narrower bottom half of their faces. Shorter necklaces will have the same effect for those with longer, slimmer faces.

Necklace Length FAQs

Read on for answers to any lingering questions regarding necklace length.

Can You Wear Two Necklaces of the Same Length?

We don’t recommend wearing two necklaces of the same length together. Choosing necklaces of varying lengths is the best way to layer necklaces. This prevents them from tangling and rubbing against each other, which can damage any diamonds or gems.

Can You Wear a Necklace Every Day?

You can wear a necklace every day if you’d like. Certain necklace styles are particularly popular for daily wear, but it's ultimately up to you. A solitaire necklace, pendant, or medallion can be paired with even the most casual outfits.

Can a Necklace Be Too Short?

A necklace in itself isn’t too short, but it can be too short for you. If you have a wider neck or shorter neckline, short necklaces like a choker may not look flattering on you. Shorter necklaces can make your neck appear shorter and wider, while longer necklaces will elongate it.

Additionally, if you’re wearing a top with a higher collar or a turtleneck, a shorter necklace can get lost in the collar. In those instances, a necklace can be too short.

What If My Necklace Is Too Long?

If your necklace is too long, you can get it shortened. Simply take your piece to a professional jeweler and they will measure your ideal necklace length and resize the chain accordingly.

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