The size of a necklace is more important than you might think. The length, width, and thickness all play a role in the overall look, so it's important to get it right. If you've ever shopped for a necklace only to realize that it was too short or too long once you got home from the store, don't worry — we'll help you figure out what size will work best for your body type and style preferences!

How to choose the right necklace size

It's not just about how much rope you want to wrap around your neck; it's also about how long you want that rope to be. The length of the chain is measured from end-to-end, including any clasp and extender chains. If you're trying out a vintage piece with an unconventional closure or extender chain, measure those as well! The best way to do this is by laying out all of your necklaces on a flat surface (or bed) and taking a few measurements with some tape measures or string.

How to get the perfect necklace fit

Necklace sizes are based on the circumference of your neck. There are two ways you can measure the size of your neck. You can use a measuring tape, or a piece of paper chain.

A measuring tape provides an accurate measurement that won't change if you gain or lose weight. Measuring with a paper chain is not as accurate, but it's less expensive (and also fun).

You can take measurements yourself or you can use helpful tools like measuring tapes and paper chains.

To measure the circumference of your neck, you can use a measuring tape, a piece of string, or a ribbon.

• A measuring tape is very easy to use and only takes one hand to accomplish the task. Keep in mind that this method may not be as accurate for smaller necklaces since it's hard to keep up with the small increments.

• Using paper chains is also fairly straightforward: cut out strips from an old newspaper printout or magazine page (about 3 inches wide), then fold them over until they meet at the center point and overlap each other by half an inch. The number of folds corresponds directly with your necklace size - two folds = 16 inches; three folds = 17 inches; four folds = 18 inches; etcetera—so long as you remember that every doubling increases both length and width by 1/2 inch!

• You can also use string instead of paper if you want something more durable but just as easy-to-use: simply loop it around once so there's no slack (or twice if there's plenty) and make sure that it overlaps itself by half an inch at least so there are no gaps between two layers while wearing these necklaces later on down road when sizing needs adjusting!

Determine your personal preferences for how you want your necklace to look when selecting a length.

When you're selecting a length for your necklace, it's important to keep in mind what kind of jewelry you like and how you want it to look. For example, if you like small chains that are worn close to the neck with pendants as opposed to long dangling pieces, then perhaps a petite chain would be better suited for you.

If you tend to go for chunky bracelets and big rings, then there's no harm in getting an over-sized chain—it won't make your look any more gaudy than it already is!

You should also take into consideration your body type—if you're taller or shorter than average, then longer or shorter necklaces will suit best. For example: if someone is tall and slender with long legs or arms (like me), I usually opt for longer necklaces because they complement my shape better than shorter ones do; however if someone else is shorter or stockier than average (i.e., less curvy), I'd suggest sticking with something shorter so that their proportions don't seem even stranger because their neck looks too long compared with their body type when wearing an oversized piece around their neck (which may lead others wondering why this person needs a necklace at all...).

Your hairstyle and body type will influence how a necklace looks on you.

If your hair is up, then you may want to wear a longer necklace that hangs down lower than usual so it can be seen with your hair up. You can also wear layers of necklaces for an elegant look.

If your hair is down, then go for a shorter length or add more layers around the neck area.

The number of layers and types of necklaces can play a part in determining the length of each of your individual necklaces.

The number of layers and types of necklaces can play a part in determining the length of each of your individual necklaces. If you have a layered necklace, you want to make sure that they are all the same length so they hang evenly. For example, if you wear multiple chokers or layered chains with one pendant at the center, matching them will help keep them looking sleek and professional rather than mismatched. If you’re wearing one long necklace that sits right below your chest, then it can easily be balanced out by wearing smaller or daintier pieces around your neck.

You don't have to guess at what the best necklace size is for you, it's easy to figure out.

You can measure yourself or use a tool to determine your necklace size.

Measure yourself with a measuring tape or paper chain:

• Measure around your neck where you want the necklace to sit.

• Depending on the desired fit, you can add 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) for a comfortable fit and optimal coverage of your body.

If you are still unsure about which size will be perfect for you after measuring, choose one that feels most comfortable when worn against bare skin under clothing as this is what will feel most like “your” style on a daily basis.

Question & Answers

What are the most popular necklace sizes?

There are definitely common necklace sizes in the same way that you might find the most highly sold size for a t-shirt company is likely medium/ large but this doesn't mean it will fit everyone. 18 inches and 20 inches necklace lengths are the most common for both men and women however you should always do a quick neck measurement first to check!

Will all necklaces fit the same way?

No this is also something to note, the fit and exact length will vary between different chain styles, this is because the chain likes have a certain length to them and if they jeweller is aiming for an 18 inch length there may come a point where the chain is just under 18 inches and adding another link will put it too far above 18 inches, this is especially true for bigger cuban link chains.

If I'm tall will I need a longer chain?

Yes your height will be the most influential thing in determining where your necklace will sit. Both neck measurement and your height should be considered when choosing a necklace length.

We hope this guide has helped you figure out what your ideal necklace size is. If you have any questions about the process, please don’t hesitate to contact us! We are more than happy to help you find the perfect length so that your next purchase is a breeze. If you're looking for further detailed information have put together the perfect jewelry sizing guide here.