How to Layer Necklaces: Simple Tips and Tricks

WHAT IS NECKLACE LAYERING?

Necklace layering is an effortless and chic trend that anyone can rock. However, it can be intimidating when creating such a bold look, pairing different necklaces together, and making sure the pieces form a cohesive yet distinct look while ensuring that these accessories won’t wash out your outfit. No need to fret! Here are five insider tips when rocking the layered necklace trend.

START BY LEARNING THE BASICS

Necklaces come in different designs and different lengths. For starters, learn the different lengths of necklaces available! Lucky for you, Shop LC has a no-brainer guide to help shoppers learn these different lengths, and how they’d look on most people. Check out this necklace diagram!

After that, choose three different chains that are two to four inches apart. That way, you can lengthen your chest and torso without clutter. If possible, try not to go over four inches between pieces, as the dead space between the shorter and longer necklaces can dilute the effect you would want to create as you layer them.

Try experimenting with these styles first:

• Choker: 14-inches
• Collar/Princess: 16 to 18-inches
• Princess/Matinee: 18 to 20-inches

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CHOOSE A STATEMENT PIECE

Much like stacking bracelets, starting with your statement piece can help you focus on which necklace you’d like to enhance.  Choose your statement necklace by these factors.

• Prominent Pendants
• Bold Designs
• Thicker Chains

Your medium necklace is often the statement piece. It’s the necklace that brings your shortest and longest necklaces together!

CHOOSING COMPLEMENTARY PIECES

Think of your layering necklaces as theatre; you want your star to shine with the help of the supporting cast.  Complementary neckwear shouldn’t drown out your statement piece when creating a stunning look.

For your shorter necklace

For your longer necklace

You could endlessly play around with pendants, but it should create a long, overall “V” shape to emphasize the elongating illusion.  This effect creates the impression of a taller torso.

STAYING COHESIVE

Layering necklaces should be a cohesive look, so matching chain material and color is the easiest way to achieving a bold and fashionable look.

Chain

Look at the chain that goes around your neck.  Are the three necklace chains matching? Do they have similarities with each other?  Using similar chains can create the illusion that you bought one, single statement piece, therefore making it easier to be cohesive.

Color

Try to match warmer tones together, and cooler tones together.  You can tell which colors are warmer tones if they match better with gold (so reds, oranges, and yellows).  Cooler tones tend to match better with silver (think blues, greens, and purples).

PERSONALIZE

Don’t be afraid to mix and match with pieces already in your closet!  Try incorporating older retro jewelry into your layered looks. Star signs, initials and birthstones make it feel personal. Either way, you should have fun with the trend while making it your own!

Tips For Being A Layered Necklace Icon

Consult our necklace diagram for quick necklace layering tips.

Necklace Layering FAQ

What are the best necklace lengths to combine?

When it comes to layering necklaces, the key is to combine a variety of lengths to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look. The most common necklace lengths to consider are:

• 16 inches: This length settles loosely along the neckline.
• 18 inches: This sits halfway between the collarbone and chest.
• 20 inches: This hangs slightly lower but doesn’t quite reach the chest.
• 24 inches: This sits right at the upper chest.
• 30 inches: This hangs much lower and rests just under the chest​¹​.

Start with a variety of chain lengths, such as beginning with a choker look, which typically ranges from 15 to 17 inches in length. This can serve as the shortest layer in your necklace combination​.

Start combining necklaces of different lengths, ideally with a gap of about two inches between each to prevent tangling and to achieve a cascading effect. For instance, if you start with a choker at 14 or 16 inches, you might then choose an 18-inch necklace, followed by a 20-inch one, and so on​.

By starting with the shortest necklace and adding longer chains as you go, each necklace should be an inch or two longer than the previous one to create a layered look that’s both sophisticated and avoids tangling. If your longest necklace has a heavier feel, it can visually frame the shorter pieces​.

How do I choose necklaces that won’t tangle?

Choosing necklaces that won’t tangle when layered involves a combination of selecting the right accessories and applying proper techniques.

• Use Layering Accessories: Incorporate necklace layering accessories like chain extenders and necklace separators. These can help maintain the perfect balance and spacing between your necklaces, which is crucial in preventing them from getting tangled​.
• Secure Clasps: Always use secure clasps and make sure they’re properly fastened. Sturdy and reliable clasps, such as lobster clasps and spring ring clasps, provide a secure hold. Ensuring your necklaces are securely fastened can prevent them from slipping and tangling​.
• Adjust Necklace Length: Adjust the length of your necklaces to ensure they fit well. If necklaces are too long, they are more prone to tangling. Using necklace extenders or adjusting the chain length can help each necklace layer sit at the correct level on your neck, minimizing tangling​.
• Untangling Techniques: In case your necklaces do get tangled, use gentle untangling techniques. Gently pull them apart or use a jewelry separator. Additionally, varying the necklace lengths can also minimize the chances of them getting tangled​.
• Layering with Pendants or Charms: When layering necklaces that include pendants or charms, select ones that complement each other in size and length to create a cohesive look. This balance can help prevent the necklaces from intertwining and tangling​.

Can I mix metals or should I stick to one?

Mixing metals when layering necklaces is not only acceptable but is also gaining popularity. It allows for a more personalized and unique style.

• Embracing Individuality: Mixing metals can create a stunning and individualized look. With the right balance, lengths, pendants, and colors, a mixed metal layered necklace can reflect personal style and leave a lasting impression​.
• Combining Different Metals: There’s no strict rule against layering different metals together. For instance, rose gold can stack well with both silver and white gold, offering an unexpected twist to your look. Your skin tone may influence whether you lean more towards gold or silver, but mixing metals can add a unique touch to your style​.
• Creating Balance: You can achieve a balanced look by “sandwiching” one type of metal between layers of another metal. This method allows for a cohesive appearance while mixing different metals, and there’s no reason to avoid combining, for example, silver and gold necklaces​.
• Stylistic Choice: While keeping the same metal throughout can be seen as classic, mixing metals adds a certain “je ne sais quoi” to an outfit. It’s a style choice that’s becoming more common, with silver and gold being one of the easiest combinations to start with​.
• Bold Fashion Statement: Daring to mix metals can make you stand out. Even with a simple outfit, integrating a variety of metals can enhance your overall look. For example, layering yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold or sterling silver necklaces can create a bold, multi-toned effect​.

What types of necklaces should be avoided when layering?

When layering necklaces, there are certain types that might not work well together or should be used thoughtfully to avoid a cluttered or unbalanced look.

• Avoid Similar Thickness: Necklaces of the same thickness can easily tangle. Instead, aim for a mix of varying thicknesses to help thicker and heavier necklaces stay in place and prevent them from merging with the lighter ones​.
• Beware of Complexity: Overly complex or busy designs can make the layered look feel messy. Aim for simplicity to maintain style and coherence. The less complicated the combination, the more effective the styling will be​.
• Statement Necklaces: While statement necklaces can be included in a layered arrangement, they should be paired with less flashy pieces to prevent an overwhelming look. A bold statement piece should be allowed to stand out, rather than compete with other necklaces​.
• Lariats and Y-Necklaces: These can be great for adding a dramatic flair, but should be balanced with shorter chains or chokers to create a naturally pleasing layering effect​.
• Avoid Overdoing It: Too many necklaces can clutter your look. It’s usually best to stick to three to four necklaces to keep things tidy and stylish​.
• Consider the Neckline: The neckline of your outfit plays a significant role in necklace layering. It’s crucial to choose necklaces that complement rather than clash with the neckline of your clothing​​.
• Different Lengths: Necklaces of the same length are more likely to tangle and will not provide the desired layering effect. It’s better to choose necklaces of varying lengths to achieve a tiered look​.

Are there any tricks to putting on and taking off layered necklaces?

To manage layered necklaces effectively and avoid tangling when putting them on and taking them off, consider these tips:

• Cascading Lengths: Ensure that each necklace cascades down in length and does not match another in length. This helps prevent necklaces from hitting each other and potentially tangling​.
• Mix Chain Thickness and Material: Use necklaces of varying thickness and different materials. Layering too many skinny chains can result in tangling. Chunkier chains tend to stay in place better and can help weigh down daintier chains, reducing tangling​.
• Unclasp and Dangle to Untwist: Before putting on a necklace, unclasp it and let it dangle to remove any twists. This helps ensure that the necklace doesn’t start with twists that could lead to more tangling​.
• Use a Layered Necklace Detangler: This tool can keep layered necklaces from tangling throughout the day. It holds 2-4 necklaces, keeping clasps together in one spot, allowing you to put on and take off multiple necklaces at once without having to unclasp them individually​.
• Order of Wearing: Put on daintier necklaces first, followed by chunkier ones. The heavier necklaces can help keep the lighter ones in place​.
• Be Mindful of Fixed Charms: If one of your necklaces has a fixed charm, make sure it can be layered appropriately with your other necklaces. Fixed charms can be problematic if they are off-center or if they can’t be layered on the shortest clasp​.
• Understand the Limitations: Even with tools and techniques, some necklaces may still tangle from time to time, especially with lots of movement. Regular adjustments throughout the day may still be necessary​.

Updated November 9, 2023.