

Collar (12-13 inches) Collar necklaces lie snugly around the middle of the neck. They are a must-have when wearing V-necks, boat necks, and off-the-shoulder fashions. Choker (14-16 inches) Both classic and versatile, a 14-16 inch choker falls perfectly around the base of the neck. A simple choker necklace matches any outfit and just about any neckline. . Princess (17-19 inches) As the most popular necklace length, the princess necklace is best suited for crew and high necklines, falling just below the throat. Typically 17-19 inches long, you can wear the princess length as a contrast to low, plunging necklines. Add a pendant for a bold, eye-catching look." Matinee (20-24 inches) Longer than the princess necklace, and slightly shorter than an opera length, a 20-24 inch matinee necklace is the right choice for casual or business dress. Opera (28-34 inches) Ranging from 28-34 inches, the opera necklace is the longest of all lengths. Wear it as a single or double strand. Perfect for high or crew necklines, its versatility allows the opera necklace to transform from day to evening wear with elegant ease. Rope (over 45 inches) Measuring at least 45 inches in length, the versatile rope necklace is a must-have accessory! Infinitely elegant and classic, this necklace dresses up any outfit night or day. Often, hidden clasps placed in strategic locations allow this necklace to be transformed into multi-strand necklace and bracelet combinations. Pictures and suggestions on this column was contributed by QVC |






| How to determine the best necklace length for an outfit by Ann Marie Dwyer The following no nonsense guidelines can ensure your necklace is always the proper length for your outfit. No Cleavage Neckline: Choker length is best, snug against the neck. Second choice is the multi-strand necklace that will cover from the choker length to within one inch of the neckline. Cleavage Exposing Neckline: Your necklace should frame the neckline along the fabric, but not extend more than two inches beyond. If your necklace is too long, it will detract from your outfit. Turtleneck: No necklace. Although popular in the 1970s, this fashion fell by the wayside before 1985. Wear a brooch. Boat neck: Wear the longest necklace in which you feel comfortable. Boat necks are rarely fitted, leaving plenty area for longer necklaces. Never wear a short necklace, it will be lost in your lack of collar. Collared Blouse: Your necklace should fall half-way between your neck and the first buttoned button of your blouse. Do not wear a necklace on the outside of the collar. Princess neck: Wear a medium width choker or a slender necklace half-way between your neck and the neckline of the outfit. Anything longer defeats the purpose of the neckline. Scoop neck, untucked: This loose fit is perfect for longer necklaces and combinations of one on the skin with one past the neckline. Scoop neck, tucked: Your necklace should only touch your skin. Choker length to within one inch of your neckline is best. V-neck, no collar: Wear whichever necklace best matches your outfit. There are no rules here! Necklaces always add that finishing touch to an outfit. Wear the one that won't wear you! |