The Ultimate Guide to Measuring Necklace Length: Find Your Perfect Fit
Because the Right Necklace Length Can Totally Make (or Break) Your Look
Let’s be true to ourselves, necklaces aren’t just an ornament that we wear, they are our mood board, whether you are layering delicate chains like a minimalist enthusiast or slaying with your everyday charm, getting the right length for your necklace is perfect. Cause if you have gotten a diamond necklace and it's too short, it might feel like a choker that you didn’t ask for. Maybe too long? And now it’s playing peek-a-boo with your outfit.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We have curated this guide especially for you to know how you can measure necklace length and get yourself the perfect piece. Whether you're shopping for someone special, it doesn’t matter whether it's another person or just you. Also, we are sharing some expert styling tips too, just so you can slay even more.
Let’s get your perfect fit, like, actually perfect.
How to Measure Necklace Length at Home (Without the Guesswork)
1. Grab a Soft Tape Measure (or Fake It with String and a Ruler)
Want to know where your necklace will sit before you buy it? Wrap a soft measuring tape around your neck or chest, right where you want the chain to fall. No tape measure? No problem. Use a piece of string, mark the spot, and measure that against a regular ruler.
Quick tip: If you’re shopping in a store, measure in inches. (And if you need to convert, 1 inch = 2.54 cm.)
2. Think About the Necklace Style First
Not all necklaces are worn the same way, so how you measure depends on the style you’re going for:
- Choker girlie? Measure snugly around the base of your neck.
- Going for a pendant moment? Measure to where you want the charm to rest.
- Layering like a trendsetter? Map out your layers in 2" steps, like 16", 18", and 20".
Each vibe needs its own strategy, and now you’ve got one.
3. Test with an Existing Necklace
If you already own a necklace you love, lay it flat and measure it end-to-end, including the clasp. That’s your reference size!
Average Necklace Lengths by Gender
For Women
| Style | Length (inches) | Where it falls |
| Choker | 14–16" | Base of the neck |
| Princess | 17–19" | On the collarbone |
| Matinee | 20–24" | Between the collarbone & bust |
| Opera | 28–36" | Below the bust or mid-torso |
| Rope/Lariat | 36"+ | Versatile for layering or knots |
Note: The average necklace length for a woman is around 18 inches great for everyday wear.
For Men
| Style | Length (inches) | Where it falls |
| Short | 18" | At the base of the neck |
| Standard | 20" | Just below the collarbone |
| Long | 22–24" | On or above the chest |
| Extra Long | 26–30" | Mid-chest or lower |
The average necklace length for a man is usually around 20–22 inches, especially for pendants and chains.
How to Measure Necklace Length in Inches and Centimeters
If your measurement is in centimeters:
- 16" = 40.64 cm
- 18" = 45.72 cm
- 20" = 50.8 cm
- 24" = 60.96 cm
Conversion Tip: Multiply inches by 2.54 to get the cm length. For international purchases, always double-check the sizing guide.
How to Measure a Necklace for Selling Online
Planning to resell a piece? Accuracy is key for happy buyers:
- Lay the necklace flat.
- Use a measuring tape from one clasp end to the other.
- Include the extender chain in the measurement.
- Note the chain material and style (e.g., box chain, snake, rolo).
- Mention the fit (choker, mid-length, long) in your product description.
Pro sellers always photograph the necklace against a ruler or use size comparison on a bust form for clarity.
Best Necklace Lengths for Different Necklines: Tops, T-Shirts & Dresses
Choosing the right chain isn’t just about length, it’s about how it plays with your outfit’s neckline.
Crew Neck & T-Shirts
- Works best with chokers (14-16") or short pendant necklaces
- Avoid longer chains that get hidden under the fabric
V-Neck Tops & Wrap Dresses
- 18–22" pendant necklaces that mimic the “V” shape are ideal
- Add a choker above for a layered look
Scoop & Boat Necks
- Matinee length (20–24") necklaces enhance the collarbone
- Try bold statement pieces for elegance
Off-Shoulder & Strapless Styles
- Go short with chokers or collar necklaces
- Keep it classy and uncluttered
High Necks & Turtlenecks
- Go long with opera (28–36") or lariat styles
- Adds vertical dimension to a covered neckline
Button-Downs & Collared Dresses
- Let a pendant peek from the open collar (18"–20")
- For a refined touch, layer fine chains over the fabric
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Guessing size: A few inches can make a huge difference.
- Ignoring neck size or frame, Petites might need shorter lengths for the same effect.
- Overlooking neckline compatibility: A gorgeous necklace can go unnoticed if it’s hiding under fabric.
- Forgetting about layering: Know your base chain before adding layers.
Styling Tips Based on Body Type and Face Shape
- Short neck? Go for 20"+ lengths to elongate
- Round face? Avoid chokers, opt for longer chains to balance the shape
- Long torso or tall frame? You can rock opera and rope styles with ease
Conclusion
A necklace isn't just an accessory, it's an expression of who you are. But even the most dazzling pendant won't pop if it's not the right length.
Whether you're shopping for a dainty gold chain, reselling a vintage treasure, or finding the perfect layering piece, measuring your necklace length is the first step to styling success.
From fashion-forward Gen Z to elegant everyday classics, your perfect necklace length is just a tape measure away.
FAQs
-
How long is 20 inches for a necklace?
A 20-inch necklace typically sits around the collarbone to the upper chest, depending on your neck size and build. It's great for pendants and layering. -
How long is an 18-inch necklace?
An 18-inch necklace usually rests just below the throat, sitting nicely at the collarbone. It’s a classic, everyday length for most women. -
Does necklace length include the clasp?
Yes, the full length of a necklace includes the clasp when measured end to end. -
How long is a 24-inch necklace?
A 24-inch necklace hangs around the center of the chest. It’s often used for statement pieces or longer layering chains. -
What is the correct way to measure the length of a necklace?
Lay it flat and measure from one end to another, including the clasp. For new sizing, use a soft tape measure or string to find where you want it to fall. -
What is the clasp part of a necklace?
The clasp is the fastener that secures the necklace. Common types include lobster, spring ring, and toggle clasps. -
What is the most attractive necklace length?
The 16–18 inch range is the most flattering for most necklines and face shapes, great for drawing attention to the collarbone. -
How to measure chain length?
Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure from one end of the chain to the other, including the clasp. -
What is the average length of a necklace for a woman?
The average necklace length for women is 18 inches, which typically sits at the collarbone and suits most outfits.
