As a jewelry designer and a lover of necklaces, I know the main rule for balancing necklaces and necklines is to make sure that the two aren’t fighting each other. They should complement. Some women say that a necklace should never hang over your neckline, some say it always should. Necklaces come in a series of traditional lengths: 14 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches, 22 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches and 36 inches. Typically for work in a more traditional setting, don’t wear anything longer than 20 inches.

 

 

Each length can be worn with a variety of necklines, but few if any necklaces are perfect for every neckline. Here’s a cheat sheet to help you:

 

Boat neck: Boat neck shirts accentuate your collarbone and shoulders. There are few necklaces that can be worn that match the shape of a boat neck shirt, so don’t wear a necklace shorter than 20 inches with boat neck shirts. This will keep your look balanced. Generally a lighter necklace, as compared to a chunky, statement piece, will look best with boat neck shirts.

 

 

Scoop neck: This type of neckline is the most versatile for wearing necklaces. You can wear short 14 inch necklaces to bring attention to your neck. Or you can wear up to the 36 inch necklace; it will hang just above your belly button. Avoid a necklace that hits right at the neckline of the shirt, or one with a dangling pendant that may get caught in or hidden under your shirt. If it’s getting stuck, change to a necklace that is two inches shorter or longer, and you’ll be perfect. Scoop necks are great for pearls and statement necklaces that are chunky.

 

 

V-neck: Another very versatile neckline. With a V-neck shirt, the eye is drawn to the point, and a choker style necklace will break that line. 14 inches and 16 inches may be a bit short for a v-neck, though of course it depends on the depth of the v. What looks particularly nice with a v-neck is an 18 inch or 20 inch necklace with a pendant. The necklace will hang in line with the v of your shirt.

 

 

Button-down shirt: A classic and very feminine look is pairing a 14 inch or 16 inch strand of pearls with a button-down shirt. To make more of a modern statement, wear a long (24 inch to 36 inch) necklace over the top of the shirt. 18 inch and 20 inch necklaces can get lost in a button-down shirt style, so if you’re wearing this length, make sure that it won’t get stuck on any buttons.

 

All fashion comes down to one thing: if you feel good in what you’re wearing, then wear it. If you have to constantly fuss with your necklace, pulling it out from beneath your shirt, etc., then you won’t feel good. So try out a couple of different necklaces before you leave the house if you’re not sure. Then you’ll be confident in knowing that you have the perfect necklace when you step out the door.