Necklace length guide: where each chain length sits, in centimetres

Where does each necklace length sit?

Where a chain sits also depends on your neck size and build, so treat these as typical positions rather than exact rules.

• 35–40 cm — choker: hugs the base of the neck.
• 40–45 cm — princess: rests on or just below the collarbone; the most popular length.
• 50–60 cm — matinee: sits above the bust; good for pendants over clothing.
• 70–90 cm — opera: reaches the breastbone; can be doubled as a two-strand necklace.
• Over 90 cm — rope: very long; knot it or wrap it several times.

How to measure the right length for you

Take a piece of string or a phone charger cable, drape it around your neck to where you want the pendant to sit, and mark the point where the ends meet. Measure that length in centimetres. Alternatively, measure a necklace you already like from end to end, including the clasp.

Which lengths suit which necklines?

• Crew neck: chokers above the neckline, or 55–60 cm chains below it.
• V-neck: 45–50 cm pendants that follow the V.
• Scoop and square necks: 40–45 cm chains and chokers.
• Strapless and off-shoulder: chokers and 40 cm chains.
• High necks and turtlenecks: long 70–90 cm chains over the fabric.

Men's necklace lengths

Men usually wear 50–55 cm chains, which sit at or just below the collarbone and above the top shirt button. Larger builds and pendants worn over shirts suit 60 cm. Chains under 45 cm look like chokers on most men.

Using an extender chain

Many necklaces include a 5 cm extender. It lets one necklace work at two lengths, which is useful for layering and for switching between necklines. If a necklace sits awkwardly between two lengths, a separate extender chain in the same metal is an easy fix.

Choosing a length for children and teens

Children usually suit 35–40 cm chains, which sit at the base of the neck without hanging into food or play. Teenagers often wear adult lengths of 40–45 cm. For young children, choose breakaway clasps or bracelets instead of necklaces.