Necklace Length Guide: 16 vs 18 vs 20 Inch (Which Looks Best?)
Quick steps to choose between 16, 18, and 20 inch necklaces
Measure your neck with a soft tape or string, mark the spot where you want a necklace to sit, and compare that to chain lengths before you buy. This practical necklace length guide 16 18 20 helps you test fit: wrap tape around the base of the neck for choker fit, around the collarbone for classic, and 2 to 3 inches below the collarbone for a longer look. Try each test against the exact outfit you plan to wear.
Why length matters
Length changes how a necklace interacts with clothing and the face. A short chain draws attention to the jaw and collarbone. A mid-length chain sits at the collarbone and reads as the everyday classic. A longer 20 inch chain drops below the collarbone, creating vertical lines that elongate the torso. Choose length to balance your neckline, face shape, and the pendant size.
Where 16, 18, and 20 inch necklaces sit
| Length | Approximate placement | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 16 inch | High on collarbone or just above; sits like a short choker on most adults | Open necklines, scoop necks, small pendants, petite necks |
| 18 inch | At the collarbone on average adult; the most versatile length | T-shirts, blouses, crew necks, everyday wear |
| 20 inch | 2 to 3 inches below the collarbone; rests on upper chest | V-necks, higher necklines, layering as the lower piece |
How to measure for a perfect fit
- Use a soft tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Wrap it around the neck where you want the chain to sit, hold it lightly, and mark the length.
- Factor in pendant drop. Add the height of a pendant bail and pendant when comparing to the measured point.
- Consider clothing thickness. A bulky sweater can raise where a necklace appears to sit; measure while wearing the intended outfit for the most accurate result.
- Know your neck circumference: under 12 inches often benefits from shorter lengths, 12 to 14 inches wears 16 to 18 comfortably, over 14 inches may prefer 18 to 20 or custom lengths.
Who looks best in each length
Face and neck proportions influence which length flatters most.
- 16 inch Flatters shorter necks and smaller frames. It highlights the jawline and works well with off-the-shoulder, boat neck, and deep scoop neck tops.
- 18 inch Universally flattering. It suits most neck sizes and pairs with crew necks and blouse collars. Good choice for first-time buyers or a single everyday necklace.
- 20 inch Balances longer torsos and higher necklines. It lengthens the upper body visually and pairs well with V-necks and shirts with a small placket.
Styling tips by neckline
- V-neck Pair a 20 inch chain or layer an 18 with a 20 to mirror the V shape and elongate the torso.
- Crew neck Use an 18 inch for a neat look that sits on top of the fabric. A 16 inch can look crowded unless the crew neck is low and open.
- Scoop or square neck Try a 16 for an upward emphasis or 18 for a classic centered pendant.
- Off-the-shoulder A short 16 inch chain highlights shoulders and collarbone with minimal distraction.
Layering with 16, 18, and 20 inch necklaces
Start with the shortest chain and build downward to create visible steps. A classic layered set is 16 + 18 + 20 inches because each length sits distinctly and avoids tangling when adjusted properly. Mix chain thicknesses and pendant sizes: keep the 16 delicate, the 18 medium with a small pendant, and the 20 slightly bolder or longer pendant to anchor the set. See a deeper layering approach at How to layer necklaces.
Choosing pendants and chain types
Match pendant size to length: small, flat pendants read best at 16; medium pendants suit 18; larger or drop-style pendants look balanced on 20. Chain type affects drape: cable and snake chains lay flat and work for pendants, while curb or Figaro chains add texture and visual weight. If a pendant has a large bail, add the bail height to the chain length when measuring so the finished piece sits where expected.
Practical shopping checklist
- Measure across fabrics and at the neckline you will wear most often.
- Check the exact chain length in product listings rather than rely on model photos.
- Look for adjustable length options or extenders when you want flexibility between 16, 18, and 20 inches.
- Confirm clasp and jump ring placement so the pendant sits at center front.
- Consider having a jeweler add a 2-inch extender if you own a favored length that needs a small adjustment.
Care and adjustments after purchase
If a chain rides too high or low, use an extender or move the pendant to a different link to fine-tune placement. For heavy pendants, choose slightly longer lengths to prevent tugging. Store necklaces on individual hooks or in flat compartments to keep lengths predictable and prevent kinks.
When to choose custom lengths
Custom lengths make sense for unique body proportions, pendant-heavy designs, or to match a specific neckline in a wedding dress or tailored garment. A jeweler can craft a length between standard sizes or add adjustable features so one piece covers multiple styling needs.
More reading and tools
For delicate gold pieces and advice on pendant styles, consult the Dainty gold necklace guide. For step-by-step layering techniques and visual templates, see How to layer necklaces. Use these references and the measurement steps above when selecting necklaces to ensure the length complements your wardrobe and proportions.
Final quick rule: choose 16 for emphasis on the throat and collarbone, 18 for everyday balance, and 20 for elongation and layered structure. Use extenders for flexibility, and always measure over the outfit you plan to wear.