NECKLACE STYLE & LENGTH GUIDE
You can buy necklaces in a number of various lengths. Generally speaking, shorter necklaces flatter long necks, while long necklaces are nicer for smaller necks. The length and styles are as follows:
Collar ~ 12 - 13 inches
A collar go best with V-neck, boat neck, or off the shoulder necklines.
Choker ~ 14 - 16 inches
The most versatile of all single strand lengths. A simple choker can go with just about any neckline and can be worn for any occassion. If you have a slightly wider neck, a princess length will fit more comfortably than a choker.
Princess ~ 17 - 19 inches
The princess length is best suited for crew & high necklines. Also compliments low plunging necklines. Princess lengths look great with pendants. Please keep in mind that necklaces with a heavy pendant will hang slightly longer and an 18 inch necklace will hang further down further down on a petite woman.
Matinee ~ 20 - 25 inches
The matinee necklace is very sophisticated and is commonly used for casual or business dressing.
Opera ~ 26 - 36 inches
When the opera length is used as a single strand, it is refined and perfect for high or crew necklines. This length can also be doubled and serve as a two strand choker.
Rope ~ 37 inches or longer
Lariats (without clasp) ~ 40" or longer
This length can be worn as multi strand necklace or a multi strand bracelet. Both rope and lariat can be over 45 inches long, but the ends of a lariat are left unattached for knotting or wrapping around the neck (similar to a scarf). Lariats can also be worn around the waist.
These are approximate lengths and may vary depending on each individual.
I hope the above guidelines will be of great help when choosing for the right necklace style and length.
