Styling Tips for Layering Necklaces

A necklace (or two or three) is the perfect frame for your face, bringing shine, color and sparkle. It sets the mood for your outfit and can tell a lot about who you are as a person.  Whether you are feeling whimsical or sophisticated, layering necklaces lets you show the world what mood you are in today. We have been listening to customers and thought we would share some frequently asked questions about layering.

Fortunately, necklace layering works great with a variety of necklines. You may want to change the profile of the layers to fit your outfit. For example, if you are wearing a scoop neck, you could layer a birthstone necklace, a letter necklace and a paperclip chain together as each offers a gentle curve. For a V-neck sweater, you could wear a birthstone necklace above and a pendant below which will mimic the line of the v-neck in the sweater. The depth of the neckline will determine how many layers and what lengths work best, though in truth, even turtlenecks look great with layered necklaces.

A focal point or statement piece is the best place to start when planning your necklace layers. This is the piece that will draw the most attention, whether because of its size, color or texture. It does not have to be big or bold, it could also be small and dainty. If you have a favorite piece you want to highlight, place it in the center layer and use the layer above and below to frame it. Generally, a pendant draws attention because it creates a v shape. Diamonds, with their eye-catching sparkle, are also a lovely focal point.

Many people feel three necklaces is the sweet spot, but truly it depends on your outfit, the occasion, and your personal style. Whether you are a minimalist and want the clean lines of a carefully balanced pair of necklaces, or are all about the #neckmess with a fun grouping, your layering says a lot about your personality. In general, leaving a little space in between lets  each necklace be appreciated, wearing too many or wearing them too closely together may feel crowded.

Generally speaking, one to two inches is a comfortable space between necklaces. The type of necklace can play a role, however, since a pendant necklace will hang in a v shape and so will sit lower than a necklace with a gentle curve. A long bottom layer can add a whole new look, creating parallel lines on either side of the other necklaces, so don’t shy away from an opera length (34”) piece like a station chain necklace. If you are looking for flexibility in chain length, consider a chain extender, which is a great way to add length to any necklace.

Try each necklace on and see what linear shape it has. This will help you think about how you want to combine the different shapes. A choker worn at the collar bone (14” - 16”) will have a gentle curve. A pendant will hang in a v shape and so works well as a second or third layer, depending on the lengths of the other pieces. A long necklace will create parallel lines and draw the eye down. The final step is to combine these linear shapes with the silhouette of the neckline of the outfit you are wearing to bring it all together.

Lay your collection of necklaces out and notice their different textures. Chains might be sleek and smooth, or open and airy, gemstones offer interesting shapes and shiny gold discs add sheen. Think about the thickness of the chain in each necklace from dainty cable to large link paperclip chains. Now play around with different combinations. When you pair similar textures, it will feel cohesive and calm. Putting different textures together can be dynamic and exciting. Pairing one bold piece with two subtle pieces will draw the attention to your focal point. An added bonus of combining different textures is that different thicknesses of chain are less apt to tangle.

Consider the overall look you have in mind and find one or two elements that tie your outfit to your jewelry. Are you looking for a unified look? Then try finding an element like color that crosses from your outfit and pair it with a colored gemstone necklace. If your outfit is the backdrop for a bold, eye-catching grouping of necklaces, choose a neutral color for the outfit and let the jewelry play center stage. 

Simple and lightweight necklaces work best for layering if you will be wearing them all day or never take them off. Understated designs can become your everyday wardrobe, especially if they are so light you don’t even feel they are there. Even well chosen statement pieces do not have to be heavy or uncomfortable.

Jewelry is extremely personal, so think about what is important to you, and what you want to show the world. You might want to wear your own initial and birthstone, a pendant with your spouse’s birthstone and a necklace with your children’s birthstones. Or you might choose a gemstone for its symbolic meaning, and have that be the focal point and pair it with a paperclip chain to add texture. Choose what speaks to you and makes you feel comfortable.