How to layer necklaces

A layered neckline looks effortless when it works and cluttered when it does not. The difference is rarely the necklaces themselves. It is how far apart they sit, how heavy each one looks, and whether one piece is clearly the star. Get those right and two or three simple chains look considered.

Start with three lengths

Necklaces sit at different points depending on their length. As a guide, a chain of about 40 cm sits at the base of the neck, 45 cm rests on the collarbone, and 50 cm falls a little below it. Choosing one of each gives every chain its own space, so nothing lies on top of anything else.

Leave at least 5 cm between each layer. If two chains are too close in length, they will drift together as you move and start to twist. Our necklace length guide shows where each length sits.

Mix weights and textures

Three identical fine chains disappear into one another. Contrast is what makes layering readable from across a room. Pair a very fine chain with something flatter, like a snake chain, or something with rhythm, like a station chain with small stones spaced along it.

Keep the thickest chain either at the top, sitting close to the neck, or as the middle layer. A heavy chain at the bottom pulls everything down and hides the pieces above it.

Let one piece lead

Every good stack has a focal point. It might be a pendant, a heart, a pearl or a lariat that drops into a Y. Put it on the longest layer, where it has room to hang, and keep the chains above it simple so they frame it rather than compete with it.

If you love two pendants, wear them at different lengths and make sure they are different sizes. Two pendants of the same size at similar lengths will look like a mistake rather than a choice.

Match the neckline

• Crew necks and high necklines: keep layers short and above the fabric, or go long enough that they sit clearly on top of it.
• V-necks: a lariat or a Y-shaped necklace follows the line of the neckline. Add a short chain above it.
• Open shirts and square necks: this is where three full layers look best, because there is skin to show them off.
• Strapless and off the shoulder: two layers at most, with the longest sitting above the neckline.

Shortcuts: pre-layered necklaces

If you would rather not fasten three clasps every morning, a layered necklace gives you two or three strands on one clasp, already spaced at the right lengths. You can still add a single chain on top to make it your own.

Keep layers from tangling

• Put the longest necklace on first and the shortest last.
• Leave enough difference in length between each layer, at least 5 cm.
• Mix chain types. Two very fine chains tangle far more than a fine chain next to a flat one.
• Store each necklace in its own pouch with the clasp fastened.

Three looks to try

Everyday

A fine chain close to the neck and a single pendant on the collarbone. Simple enough for every day, and it works with almost any top.

Weekend

A snake chain at the base of the neck, a station chain in the middle and a small heart at the bottom. Three textures, three lengths.

Evening

A lariat on its own with an open neckline, or a pre-layered necklace with drop earrings and nothing else. Let the gold do the work.

Questions