Types Of Necklaces & Where To Use Them

People across different cultures have been wearing necklaces for centuries. These adornments have a unique way of elevating an outfit, expressing personal style, and even carrying sentimental value. Whether delicate or bold, a necklace can be the perfect finishing touch to any ensemble. But with so many types available, choosing the right one for the right occasion can be a daunting task. This article aims to guide you through the different types of necklaces, their best uses, and how to select the perfect one to complement your outfit and occasion.

 

The Basics of Necklace Lengths

Understanding necklace lengths is fundamental to mastering the art of necklace styling. The length of a necklace can dramatically alter its impact on an outfit and how it complements the wearer's neckline. Let’s explore the most common necklace lengths and how they can be used to enhance your look.

Collar Necklace (12–14 inches)

 A collar necklace sits snugly around the neck, often just above the collarbone. This length is perfect for open-neck or off-the-shoulder outfits, offering a chic and elegant look.

Choker Necklace (14–16 inches)

The choker necklace is a versatile option that rests around the base of the neck. It can be worn with a variety of outfits, from casual tees to evening gowns, adding a touch of sophistication or edge, depending on the design.

Princess Necklace (18 inches)

The princess length falls just below the collarbone, making it the most popular and versatile length. It works well with almost any neckline and is ideal for showcasing pendants.

Matinee Necklace (20–24 inches)

Matinee necklaces typically rest on the chest, making them suitable for both professional and semi-formal occasions. They pair beautifully with high necklines or layered with shorter necklaces.

Opera Necklace (28–36 inches)

Opera-length necklaces offer elegance and versatility, draping down to the bust or even the waist. They can be worn as a single strand for a dramatic effect or doubled up for a layered look.

Rope Necklace (over 36 inches)

Rope necklaces are the longest and can be wrapped multiple times around the neck or worn as a single, long strand for a bohemian or glamorous look.

Each length serves a distinct purpose, and understanding these can help you choose the right necklace to enhance your style and the overall impact of your outfit.

 

Common Types of Necklaces

Since we were keen to learn more about the common types of necklaces, we decided to take a stroll to Tariq Road, Karachi, Pakistan, where we spoke to a few artificial jewellery makers. Not only were we briefed on the different types, we were also told that while a large market exists for artificial jewellery lovers, unfortunately, the options to buy them from are very few.

I can list quite a few common types that are easily available both online and offline in Karachi. However, many women often come across looking for the classic Bib Necklace. As it so often happens, we don’t keep such bold designs because people tend to frown upon the design,” said Ali, a local jewellery-seller at Tariq Road, Karachi.

 

Anyway, before we delve further into the availability of the items, let’s read about the common types:

 Pendant Necklace

A pendant necklace features a single decorative element—known as a pendant—hanging from a chain. Pendants can vary widely in size, shape, and material, making them a highly personal and expressive accessory.

• Common Uses: Everyday wear, personal expression, layering.
• Suitable Occasions: Casual outings, work, informal gatherings.

A pendant necklace is the perfect way to keep something meaningful close to your heart, be it a gemstone, a symbol, or a locket. It’s versatile enough for daily wear, adding a subtle yet personal touch to any outfit.

 Choker Necklace

The choker is a bold piece that sits tightly around the neck, often making a striking statement. Chokers can be made from a variety of materials, including velvet, leather, metal, or even pearls.

• Common Uses: Fashion-forward statements, layering.
• Suitable Occasions: Parties, night outs, fashion events.

Worn on its own or layered with longer necklaces, the choker is a favorite among fashion-forward individuals. It draws attention to the neck and collarbone, making it ideal for occasions where you want to stand out.

 Lariat Necklace

The lariat, or rope necklace, is a unique piece with no clasp, offering endless styling possibilities. It can be wrapped, knotted, or draped in various ways to create different looks.

• Common Uses: Versatile styling, can be worn in various ways.
• Suitable Occasions: Evening events, formal gatherings.

The lariat necklace’s versatility makes it a go-to for those who love to experiment with their jewellery. Its long, flowing design adds a touch of drama to evening wear and can be styled to suit any formal occasion.

 Bib Necklace

A bib necklace is a statement piece designed to cover a portion of the chest, often featuring intricate designs with beads, gemstones, or metals.

• Common Uses: Bold fashion statements, focal point of an outfit.
• Suitable Occasions: Weddings, special events, formal occasions.

The bib necklace is not for the faint of heart. It’s meant to be the centerpiece of an outfit, drawing all eyes to its intricate and bold design. This type of necklace is perfect for occasions where you want to make a grand entrance, such as weddings or gala events.

 Chain Necklace

A chain necklace is a simple, often unadorned piece that can vary in thickness and style. It’s a wardrobe staple that can be worn alone or with pendants.

• Common Uses: Versatile, can be worn alone or with pendants.
• Suitable Occasions: Daily wear, layering, casual to formal settings.

The beauty of a chain necklace lies in its simplicity and versatility. It can be dressed up or down, worn alone for a minimalist look, or paired with a pendant for added interest. Its adaptability makes it suitable for any occasion.

 Torsade Necklace

The torsade necklace is composed of multiple strands of beads twisted together to create a thicker, more textured look.

• Common Uses: Adding texture and volume to an outfit.
• Suitable Occasions: Work, formal occasions, special events.

The torsade is an excellent choice for adding dimension to your outfit. The twisted strands create visual interest and can elevate a simple ensemble to something truly special. It’s particularly well-suited for formal settings and special events.

 

Specialty and Cultural Necklaces

When it comes to special jewellery designs, which are more often worn on special occasions, the market offers abundant options to potential customers.

Liaquat Bharra, a jewellery-seller at Saddar, Karachi, believes this is more often due to the country’s inclination towards its love and admiration for deep-rooted cultural values and traditions.

“You see, we may have gotten independence from the British back in 1947 and may have subsequently gotten a different country from India, but the Indian culture and tradition continue to dominate the jewellery design landscape till this day. There are many online and offline jewellery brands that have purposely named their jewellery brands after Indian states, traditional jewellery pieces and Bollywood celebrities,” stated Bharra.

“One such instance is the infamous ‘Kum Kum Jhumkay’ that went viral back in mid-2000s after a popular Indian soap drama became instant hit in Pakistan. Despite having no social media then, the Jhumkas sold like hot cakes and you would see women wearing them proudly at every other occasion,” added Bharra.

 

That said, the common specialty and cultural necklaces that continue to dominate the jewellery landscape are:

 Locket Necklace

A locket necklace is a pendant with a compartment to hold a photo, lock of hair, or other small keepsakes. It’s a piece that carries deep personal significance, often passed down through generations.

• Cultural Significance: Sentimental value, family heirlooms.
• Suitable Occasions: Personal, family gatherings, special memories.

Lockets are more than just jewellery; they are repositories of memories and emotions. Wearing a locket necklace allows you to keep loved ones close to your heart, making it a meaningful accessory for family gatherings or personal moments.

 Beaded Necklace

Beaded necklaces are crafted from various beads, such as glass, gemstones, or wood. These necklaces often carry cultural significance and are handmade by artisans.

• Cultural and Artisanal Significance: Often handmade, representing different cultures.
• Suitable Occasions: Casual wear, ethnic events, summer festivals.

Beaded necklaces are a vibrant expression of cultural heritage and personal style. Each bead and pattern tells a story, making these necklaces perfect for adding a touch of tradition to your outfit. They are especially fitting for casual or ethnic events where you want to showcase your cultural pride.

 Pearl Necklace

Pearl necklaces are timeless pieces made from natural or cultured pearls. They symbolize purity and elegance and are often passed down as family heirlooms.

• Historical and Cultural Significance: Symbol of purity, often passed down generations.
• Suitable Occasions: Weddings, formal events, professional settings.

The pearl necklace is the epitome of classic elegance. Its understated beauty makes it suitable for a wide range of formal occasions, from weddings to business meetings. The pearls’ natural luster adds a touch of refinement to any outfit.

 

How to Choose the Right Necklace for Different Occasions

Choosing the right necklace is not just about matching it to your outfit but also about the occasion and your personal style. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Consider the Occasion: For formal events, opt for classic pieces like pearl or diamond necklaces. For casual outings, a simple pendant or chain necklace works well.
2. Match the Necklace with Your Neckline: The neckline of your outfit plays a significant role in determining which necklace will look best. For example, a choker pairs well with off-the-shoulder or scoop necklines, while a pendant or princess-length necklace complements a V-neck.
3. Reflect Your Personal Style: Whether you prefer bold statement pieces or delicate chains, choose a necklace that reflects your personality. Your jewellery should feel like an extension of yourself.

According to an Insta-famous lifestyle blogger who spoke on condition of anonymity, choosing the right necklace is not as easy as it appears. “People tend to pick the wrong necklace for the wrong occasion. It is like walking on a tight rope with a stick in your hand. If you don’t get it right, chances are, you’ll fall off!” exclaimed the blogger.

 

Styling Tips and Trends

Keeping up with the latest trends and knowing how to style necklaces can elevate your fashion game. Here are some current trends and tips:

• Layering: Layering different types of necklaces is a popular trend that allows you to create a unique, personalized look. Mix and match different lengths, textures, and styles for a chic, layered effect.
• Minimalism: Simple, dainty necklaces are in vogue, especially for everyday wear. These pieces are understated yet elegant, perfect for adding a subtle touch of sophistication to any outfit.
• Statement Pieces: Bold, oversized necklaces like bibs or large pendants are making a comeback. These pieces are ideal for making a fashion statement and drawing attention to your outfit.
• Mixing Metals: Don’t be afraid to mix gold, silver, and rose gold necklaces. This trend adds depth and interest to your jewellery collection, allowing you to experiment with different looks.

 

Conclusion

Necklaces are used as style statements, and an expression of personal style and one’s taste and inclination towards her cultural values. Regardless of the occasion, women now have access to many online and offline jewellery sellers that now offer all kinds of necklace designs. You can elevate your overall look, should you make the right choice when it comes to wearing necklaces!