Different necklace lengths are appropriate for different occasions. There are plenty of choices for every style and every neck shape. Here are some descriptions & tips about necklace lengths.
HINT: Any necklace can be resized to a shorter length. So if you see a long length necklace and want to make it a shorter length... No problem. Just call, email or leave comment upon making payment. Please specify desired sizing. Sorry, necklaces can be lengthened.
Collar — 12/13 inchesCollars are usually made up of three or more strands or a single wide ribbon and lie snugly on the middle of the neck. Very elegant and luxurious, collars go best with elegant V-neck, boat neck or off the shoulder fashions. While they are usually known to be worn with evening wear, today, anything goes and can also be worn with jeans.
Choker — 14/16 inches A choker is perhaps the most classic and yet versatile of all the single strand lengths. A simple choker can go with virtually any outfit from casual to fancy evening wear and just about any neckline imaginable. This is a good necklace length for a child. This way the necklace has "growth room".
Princess — 17/19 inchesThe most popular size is the princess length necklace as it is best suited for high collared shirts/blouses, crew necklines and also complements low plunging necklines very well.
Matinee — 20/24 inchesLonger than the princess, and just a bit shorter than an opera length, the matinee necklace is the right choice for casual or business dressing.
Opera — 28/34 inchesThe opera necklace is the queen of all the lengths. When worn as a single strand, it is refined and perfect for high or crew necklines. When doubled upon itself, it serves as a versatile two strand chocker/princess. Opera size draws the eyes down to your chest and away from your neck. This is a good thing if your bosom is more attractive than your chin, but wear a good bra!
Rope or Lariat — Over 45 inchesDripping with elegance and sensuously sexy, the pearl rope was a favorite of Coco Chanel. Clasps placed in strategic locations around the necklace will enable you to break it down into multi-strand necklace and bracelet combinations. For those looking for the complete wardrobe, this length is a must. Lariats are at last 48 inches long, some with the ends left unattached for knotting or wrapping around the neck. So be aware as they draw attention to your curves, causing the eye to sweep down your torso. You can double or triple strand them for shorter lengths.
BRACELETS:
I measure bracelet lengths from end to end, including the clasp. In jewelry descriptions I will specify whether or not the bracelet clasp is adjustable. The easiest way to determine your bracelet length is to wrap a string around your wrist, and then measure the string. Add one inch to this measurement to determine your bracelet length. For children under 13, add 3/4 of an inch.
Average lengths according to bone structure are provided below.
Adult bracelet sizes:
Very small - 6.5
Small - 7"
Medium - 7.5"
Large - 8"
X-Large - 8-9"
