Selecting the right necklace length is important to consider when choosing jewelry. The jewelry industry has standard necklace lengths measured in inches, which are more often even numbers than odd. However, chains can be cut to any length, and custom-designed pieces can be whatever the designer decides.
A quick way to figure out the perfect necklace length is to measure the extended length of the necklace you wear most often (or the clasped length, then double it). That's likely the most flattering length for you, or the one that works best with your wardrobe.
Refer to these guides below for options for women and men:
14 inches: Placement - Tightly around the neck. Worn best with - Open-neck clothing such as scoop necks, V-necks, off-the-shoulder and boatnecks. 16 inches: Placement - Tightly against base of throat; usually called a choker. Worn best with - Almost everything.
18 inches: Placement - On the collarbone; most common size. Worn best with - Almost everything. 20 to 24 inches: Placement - Between the collarbone and the bust. Worn best with - Great for both business and casual wear.
28 to 36 inches: Placement - On the bust or an inch or two below. Worn best with - High necklines and evening wear. 36 to 42 inches: Placement - Wrapped to sit on or just below the center of the bust. Worn best with - Elegant business and evening wear.
18 inches: Placement - Base of neck of smaller man.
20 inches: Placement - Collarbone; most common size.
22 inches: Placement - A few inches below the collarbone; medallion can be added.
24 inches: Placement - Above the breastbone.