Choosing the perfect necklace to complement your outfit can sometimes feel like a daunting task.
Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or simply putting together an everyday look, a necklace can elevate your style effortlessly.
With graduations, weddings, and parties around the corner, it’s important to understand which necklaces suit different outfits and necklines.
Let’s get straight to the point
Choosing the right necklace to match your outfit is essential for elevating your style.
The key is to pair the necklace with your neckline: V-necks work best with V-shaped or pendant necklaces, boat necks suit longer or multi-strand pieces, and off-shoulder tops are complemented by chokers or short pendants.
Scoop necks allow for experimentation with chunky or layered necklaces, while collared shirts pair well with bib necklaces or chokers.
Consider the occasion and balance the weight of your necklace with your outfit. With these tips, you’ll confidently accessorise for any look.
The Importance of Necklines and Necklaces
Why Necklines Matter for Necklace Choices
One of the first things to understand is the close relationship between necklines and necklaces. A well-chosen necklace not only complements your outfit but can enhance your overall look.
However, mismatching a necklace with your neckline can throw off the appearance of your outfit. That’s why it’s essential to consider both elements carefully.
When you’re shopping for a necklace, keep your wardrobe and the types of necklines you usually wear in mind. The perfect necklace can turn an ordinary outfit into something special, but only if it works well with the neckline.
How to Choose the Right Necklace
Tips for Selecting the Perfect Necklace
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing a necklace:
- Follow the shape of your neckline: A general rule of thumb is to match the necklace shape with the neckline. A V-neck calls for a V or Y-shaped necklace, while a round neckline would suit a round necklace.
- Consider the occasion: Are you dressing for a casual day out or a more formal event? For daytime looks, opt for dainty necklaces, and for special occasions, you can experiment with statement pieces.
- Balance the heaviness of the necklace: A chunky necklace might overpower a delicate outfit, while a subtle necklace may get lost in a busy, detailed ensemble. Find balance in your choice.
Now, let’s explore which necklaces best suit different necklines.
Best Necklaces for Different Necklines
V-Neck Outfits
V-neck tops and dresses are versatile staples in many wardrobes. To maintain that sleek look, choose a V-shaped necklace or a pendant that follows the shape of the neckline. A V or Y-shaped necklace naturally complements the cut of the top, creating harmony in your outfit.
- Do’s: Choose necklaces with a pendant that sits about an inch above the V, creating a balanced look.
- Don’ts: Avoid round or asymmetric necklaces that might look out of place with the pointed V-shape.
A black V-neck dress can be easily elevated with a statement pendant or a simple chain for a more understated, chic look. Match your necklace with minimalist earrings for an effortlessly polished style.
Boat Neck or Bateau Necklines
The boat neck style, known for its wide neckline across the shoulders, calls for a necklace that doesn’t disrupt the clean, graceful line of the top. Look for longer necklaces or multi-strand pieces that sit below the neckline.
- Do’s: Opt for princess necklaces, pearls, or beaded necklaces that extend past the neckline.
- Don’ts: Avoid chokers or shorter necklaces that might clash with the wide neckline.
This style works particularly well with elegant, minimalist necklaces that add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the look.
Off-Shoulder and Bardot Necklines
For an off-shoulder or Bardot neckline, the décolletage is the focal point, so you want to accentuate that area. Short necklaces, such as chokers or short pendants, work best for off-shoulder tops. These types of necklaces highlight your neck and collarbone.
- Do’s: Choose chokers, short pendants, or statement necklaces for a bold, glamorous look.
- Don’ts: Avoid long necklaces that disrupt the clean, open look of the neckline.
Bardot tops pair wonderfully with beaded necklaces, adding a touch of bohemian flair. However, if you’re wearing a bandeau-style top, stick to shorter necklaces to maintain balance.
Scoop Neck Outfits
A scoop neck top or dress is one of the most versatile necklines for necklaces. Since the neckline is wide and curved, you have more freedom to experiment with different necklace styles.
- Do’s: Go for chunky, multi-strand necklaces or layered necklaces that fill the space and complement the neckline.
- Don’ts: Avoid necklaces that fall too low below the scoop neckline.
If you’re feeling adventurous, pair your scoop neck with a bold statement necklace or keep it simple with a long pendant for a more relaxed look.
Collared Shirts or Button-Downs
Collared shirts offer more flexibility with necklace styles than you might expect. If you’re leaving the top button or two undone, this creates a V-neck effect, and you can follow the same rules as for a V-neck.
- Do’s: Bib necklaces look great over a button-down for a chic, polished vibe. Chokers also pair well with collared shirts if your neck is on the longer side.
- Don’ts: Avoid chunky necklaces with a fully buttoned-up shirt as they might feel too constrictive.
Low-Cut Necklines
Low-cut necklines can be daring and sophisticated. If you’re wearing a deep V-neck or plunging neckline, your necklace should mirror the shape and depth of the cut.
- Do’s: Go for long, pendant necklaces or chokers for a seductive, balanced look.
- Don’ts: Steer clear of necklaces that are too short or ones that don’t align with the plunging neckline.
For formal events, complement your low-cut dress with elegant jewellery pieces like diamond earrings and a matching pendant to create a cohesive, luxurious look.
Exploring Necklace Types and Lengths
Chokers
Chokers are short necklaces, typically ranging from 14 to 16 inches, that sit snugly around the neck. They work best with off-shoulder tops, V-necks, and low-cut necklines, creating a bold, stylish statement.
Princess Necklaces
A princess necklace is about 18-20 inches in length, making it perfect for round necklines and crew neck tops. These necklaces often feature pendants, adding a subtle touch of elegance to any look.
Bib Necklaces
Bib necklaces have become popular for their intricate designs and ability to make a statement. They feature multiple strands or layers of beads and stones, making them perfect for collared shirts or boat necks.
Opera Necklaces
Opera necklaces are long and usually fall between 26 and 36 inches. These elegant pieces can be worn as a single strand or doubled up for a shorter look, making them versatile for both casual and formal outfits.
Conclusion
Necklaces are the perfect accessory to enhance any outfit, but choosing the right one depends on your neckline, occasion, and personal style. With these tips, you’ll never struggle to pick the perfect necklace again, whether you’re heading to a casual brunch or an elegant soirée.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you wear a necklace with a neck dress?
If you’re wearing a deep-plunging v-neck dress, you are definitely going for the wow factor. A long pendant necklace works well. One stylish option is a simple choker and pendant combination.
Can you wear a choker with a v neck?
Chokers work well with V-necklines, but wearing them with turtlenecks and whatnot is visual terrorism.
Likewise, don’t wear a choker that is too tight. You don’t want your skin bulging out from both sides. Let it rest loosely on your neck instead for an effortless style.
Is it bad to wear a choker?
Choker necklaces are not necessarily bad or dangerous, but the choker could be dangerous if it’s worn too tightly.
So, if you are looking for a choker necklace but aren’t sure about how tight it should be, we’d recommend that you choose a choker necklace that fits comfortably.
How do you accessorize a deep V-neck dress?
For a deep v-neck dress, you want to select jewellery that keeps the focus on the neckline. Depending upon your personal style, try a simple pendant or go bold with a statement piece. A simple gold or silver chain can draw the eye from neckline to waist.
How do you accessorize a deep V-neck dress?
For a deep v-neck dress, you want to select jewellery that keeps the focus on the neckline. Depending upon your personal style, try a simple pendant or go bold with a statement piece. A simple gold or silver chain can draw the eye from neckline to waist.
