Find Your Perfect Necklace Length
Sometimes it's not the necklace you struggle to choose.
It's where you want it to sit.
Chain length can completely change the look of a necklace — particularly when you're layering several pieces together.
Here's our simple guide to finding your perfect fit.
First: there isn't one “correct” necklace length
Everyone's proportions are different.
The same 45 cm necklace can sit slightly higher or lower depending on:
- Neck circumference
- Height and body proportions
- Pendant size
- Clothing neckline
- Whether you're wearing the necklace alone or layering it
That's why we always recommend checking the individual measurements on a Willow product before ordering.
One of the easiest ways to check is with a piece of string: measure it to the stated necklace length, place it around your neck, and see where it falls. Tiffany recommends this same method when choosing necklace lengths.
40 cm — Short and delicate
Approximately 16 inches.
This generally sits around the base of the neck or collarbone area.
It's ideal for:
- A shorter everyday chain
- Delicate necklaces
- The top layer of a necklace stack
- Wearing with open necklines
A 40 cm chain also works beautifully when paired with a longer pendant underneath.
45 cm — The everyday favourite
Approximately 18 inches.
This is one of the most versatile necklace lengths and tends to fall around or just below the collarbone depending on the wearer.
Tiffany describes the 16–18 inch range as among the most universally versatile necklace lengths.
It's also a length you'll see frequently at Willow.
For example, our Florence Pearl Pendant Necklace uses a 45 cm chain with a 5 cm extender, while Everly also uses a 45 cm + 5 cm configuration.
That extender is particularly useful because it lets you adjust the position depending on your neckline or other necklaces.
We love 45 cm for:
- Everyday pendants
- Pearl necklaces
- Gifting
- Wearing alone
- Starting a layered look
If you're unsure where to begin, this is generally the easiest length.
50 cm — A little longer
Approximately 20 inches.
This sits lower on the chest and works beautifully when you want your pendant to have a little more breathing room.
It's particularly useful for:
- Larger pendants
- Wearing over higher necklines
- The second or third piece in a necklace stack
- Creating separation between layered necklaces
55–60 cm — The longer layer
Approximately 22–24 inches.
This creates a noticeably longer look and works well as the bottom layer in a necklace stack.
Longer necklaces can also make a statement worn alone.
Tiffany's layering guidance suggests using distinct lengths — for example 16, 18 and 20–24 inches — to give each necklace its own space.
How to layer necklaces
The easiest trick is spacing.
Instead of choosing three necklaces that all sit around the same spot, create clear levels.
For example:
40 cm
Short chain
↓
45 cm
Pendant
↓
50–55 cm
Longer statement piece
Varying chain weight and pendant size can also make a layered look feel more intentional and help necklaces sit separately.
Try mixing textures
Your necklaces don't need to match perfectly.
Try combining:
- A simple chain
- A freshwater pearl detail
- A meaningful pendant
- A personalised piece
- Gold and silver if mixed metals are your style
The goal isn't perfect symmetry.
It's creating a combination that feels like you.
Choosing a necklace as a gift
If you don't know the recipient's preferred length, a 45 cm necklace with an extender is a great place to start because it offers some flexibility.
Also think about what they usually wear.
Someone who wears open-neck tops may love a shorter pendant, while someone who wears higher necklines might prefer something slightly longer.
And if you can sneak a look at one of their favourite necklaces, even better — measure it from end to end and use that as your guide.
Our favourite tip
Before ordering, grab a piece of string.
Measure:
40 cm
45 cm
50 cm
Try each one in the mirror.
It takes about a minute and gives you a much better idea of where your new necklace will actually sit.
Then choose the Willow piece you'll want to reach for again and again.
