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LIORÉNNA Jewelry Guide
Necklace Length Guide:
Find Your Perfect Length
Necklace length can completely change how a piece looks with your outfit. This guide shows where common necklace lengths sit and how to choose the right length for your neckline, style and layering combination.
Quick Answer
An 18-inch necklace is one of the most versatile everyday lengths. Shorter 14–16 inch necklaces sit higher around the neck, while 20–30 inch necklaces create a longer, more relaxed look.
Necklace Size Chart
Where Does Each Necklace Length Sit?
Necklace placement varies slightly depending on your neck size, height and body proportions, but these lengths provide a useful general guide.
14 in / 35 cm
Sits closely around the neck and creates a choker-style look.
16 in / 40 cm
Usually rests around the base of the neck.
18 in / 45 cm
Typically falls around the collarbone and is a versatile everyday length.
20 in / 50 cm
Falls slightly below the collarbone.
22 in / 55 cm
Usually sits around the upper chest.
24 in / 60 cm
Creates a noticeably longer necklace look.
30 in / 76 cm
A long statement length that generally falls around the mid-chest.
Popular Choices
The Most Versatile Necklace Lengths
If you're unsure which necklace length to choose, these three lengths are useful starting points for many everyday styles.
16 Inches
Short & Refined
A shorter necklace that sits near the base of the neck. It works especially well with open necklines and layered looks.
18 Inches
Everyday Favorite
One of the most versatile necklace lengths. It usually sits around the collarbone and works with many outfits.
20 Inches
Slightly Longer
A relaxed length that falls below the collarbone and works especially well for pendants or necklace layering.
Styling Guide
How to Choose Necklace Length by Neckline
The neckline of your outfit can help determine where your necklace should sit. Ideally, the necklace should complement the shape of your neckline rather than compete with it.
- V-neck: 16–20 inch necklaces and pendants can follow the shape of the neckline.
- Crew neck: Shorter necklaces can sit above the neckline, while longer necklaces can fall clearly below it.
- Strapless: 14–18 inch necklaces help keep attention around the neck and collarbone.
- Scoop neck: 16–20 inch necklaces often complement the open curved neckline.
- Turtleneck: Longer 22–30 inch necklaces can create contrast over the fabric.
Measure at Home
How to Measure Your Ideal Necklace Length
You can easily test different necklace lengths at home before choosing your jewelry.
01
Use String or Measuring Tape
Take a flexible measuring tape or piece of string and place it around your neck.
02
Adjust the Length
Move the string until it sits exactly where you would like your necklace to fall.
03
Measure the Length
Mark where the ends meet and measure the full length against a ruler.
04
Compare With Standard Sizes
Compare your measurement with common necklace lengths such as 16, 18, 20 or 22 inches.
Layering Guide
How to Layer Different Necklace Lengths
The easiest way to create a balanced layered necklace look is to leave visible space between each chain.
16 + 18 Inches
A subtle two-layer combination that keeps both necklaces close to the collarbone.
16 + 20 Inches
Creates more visible separation and works especially well when the longer piece has a pendant.
16 + 18 + 22 Inches
A three-layer combination with enough spacing to give each necklace its own place.
Necklace Sizing FAQ
Common Necklace Length Questions
What is the most common necklace length?
An 18-inch necklace is a very versatile length because it typically sits around the collarbone and works with many necklines.
Where does a 16-inch necklace sit?
A 16-inch necklace usually sits around the base of the neck, although exact placement depends on your neck size and proportions.
Where does an 18-inch necklace sit?
An 18-inch necklace generally falls around the collarbone, making it a popular everyday length.
Is a 20-inch necklace too long?
No. A 20-inch necklace typically sits slightly below the collarbone and can work especially well with pendants and layered necklaces.
How do I know what necklace length looks best on me?
Consider your neck size, proportions, neckline and preferred style. You can also use string to test different lengths in front of a mirror before choosing a necklace.
What necklace length is best for layering?
Try combining necklaces with at least a small difference in length, such as 16 and 18 inches or 16, 18 and 22 inches, so each layer remains visible.
Jewelry Sizing
Find the Perfect Fit for Every Piece
Finished finding your ideal necklace length? Explore our complete jewelry sizing guide or find the right fit for rings, bracelets and anklets.
Explore More Sizing Guides