How to Layer Necklaces: A 4-Step Guide

Layered necklaces are the easiest way to make any outfit look intentional. They are also the easiest way to make an outfit look chaotic.

The difference between the two is four small rules. Below, what our stylists do at the showroom every time someone asks.

Rule 1: Vary the lengths

The cardinal rule. Layered necklaces have to sit at different heights or they tangle.

Standard lengths to know:

• Choker (14 to 16 inches): sits high on the neck
• Princess (17 to 19 inches): sits at the collarbone
• Matinee (20 to 24 inches): sits at the chest
• Lariat or rope (28+ inches): sits past the bust

The cleanest layered look uses three different lengths separated by at least 2 inches. Two chokers will tangle. A choker plus a matinee plus a lariat will not.

Rule 2: Mix textures, not metals

Mixing yellow gold with white gold can work, but it requires intention. Mixing textures (smooth chain + beaded chain + pendant) almost always works.

Three textures to mix:

• Smooth chain (cable, snake, or curb): the foundation
• Beaded or detailed chain (rolo, figaro, gold bead): the texture layer
• Pendant or station (single charm, lariat, station necklace): the focal point

The eye reads texture before it reads metal. A stack of yellow gold smooth + yellow gold beaded + yellow gold pendant will feel layered. A stack of three smooth chains in different metals will feel confused.

Rule 3: Pick one star

The third necklace is the one everyone notices. Make it count.

This is where you put a lariat with a real stone. A station necklace with diamonds. A pendant with meaning. The first two layers do the work of making the look feel finished. The third layer makes the look memorable.

If you are starting your collection, build it backwards. Buy the star first. Then layer thinner pieces under it.

Rule 4: Avoid clasp pile-up

The most overlooked layering problem. All your clasps end up in the same spot at the back of your neck and tangle.

Two solutions:

• Wear necklaces of slightly different chain widths so they do not slide together
• Use a layering clasp (a small device that hooks two or three necklaces into one back closure)

If you wear layered necklaces every day, the layering clasp is worth the $30. It will save you ten minutes every morning.

The pieces designed to layer

Our stylists picked these specifically because they layer well.

Quick layering combinations

Casual everyday

Special occasion

Statement maximalist

One last rule

If your layered look feels stiff, take one piece off.

The best-layered necks always have one fewer piece than they could. Less is the difference between layered and overworked.

Want to see how they sit on you in person? Book a private appointment at our Miami showroom and we will pull layered combinations from our necklaces collection for you.