How to Layer Necklaces Like a Pro
Layering necklaces looks easy until you put two on and they land in exactly the same spot.
The easiest place to start is with two necklaces you already like. One shorter, one a little longer. From there, you can play with different chains, pendants and metals until it feels right.
There really aren't many rules.
Start With Two
Two necklaces are enough to get the layered look, especially if you don't normally wear a lot of jewellery.
Start with a shorter necklace around your collarbone and add something that sits a little lower. A pendant works especially well because it gives the second necklace some weight and creates a natural focal point.
You don't need to measure everything first. Put them on.
If you can clearly see both necklaces, the spacing probably works. If they're sitting on top of each other, lengthen one or try a different combination.
Mix Up the Chains
I usually like layers better when the necklaces aren't too similar.
Try a fine chain with something heavier, or a smooth chain with one that has more texture. A simple chain also looks great above a pendant.
If both necklaces are the same length, weight and style, they can start to look like one necklace that got tangled.
This is where you can use what you already own. Your necklaces don't have to be from the same collection or even the same brand.
Add a Pendant
A pendant is one of the easiest pieces to layer because it gives the whole stack somewhere to finish.
Keep the shorter necklace fairly simple and let the pendant hang below it. If the pendant is larger or has a lot going on, I wouldn't add too much more.
Sometimes two really is better than four.
What Lengths Work Best?
You'll often see necklace layering guides recommending combinations such as 16 and 18 inches, or 16, 18 and 20 inches.
That's a useful starting point, but I wouldn't treat it as a rule.
The same necklace can sit differently depending on your neck, the size of the pendant and even what you're wearing. An extender can be handy when two necklaces you love keep landing in the same place.
What matters more is being able to see each layer.
Necklace Length Guide
Use this as a starting point, then adjust from there. An inch one way or the other can make a surprising difference.
Can You Mix Gold and Silver?
Yes.
If you have a silver necklace you love and want to wear it with gold, try them together. Mixed metals don't bother me at all, especially when one piece already has both finishes.
You can also repeat the metals somewhere else with your earrings or bracelet, but you don't have to turn getting dressed into a maths problem.
If the combination looks good when you put it on, you're done.
What About Three Necklaces?
Once two are working, try adding a third.
I'd usually keep the shortest piece fairly simple and let the necklaces get a little more substantial as they go down. A pendant often works nicely as the longest piece.
Then look in the mirror.
If the third necklace made everything better, keep it. If your eye doesn't know where to go anymore, take it off.
Four layers can work too, but I wouldn't make four necklaces the goal. More jewellery isn't automatically better jewellery.
Think About What You're Wearing
Necklines change everything.
A crewneck tee or sweater gives necklaces a nice clean background. A longer pendant can work particularly well over a knit.
With a V-neck or open blouse, I like necklaces that sit inside the open neckline rather than right on top of its edge.
And if you're wearing something with a busy neckline, you may decide you don't need a necklace at all.
That's allowed too.
How Do You Stop Layered Necklaces From Tangling?
I wish there were a magic answer to this one.
Giving the necklaces a little space helps. So does mixing different chain weights instead of layering several very fine chains at almost the same length.
A necklace separator or layering clasp can help if you wear the same combination often.
But necklaces move when you move. Sometimes you're going to have to straighten them out during the day.
Want More Colour?
Gemstone and bead necklaces are a different kind of layer. We love them mixed with simple gold chains, pearls and small pendants.
If that's more your style, we've put together a separate guide on how to layer gemstone necklaces.
A Few Pieces We're Layering Right Now
A smooth shorter chain with a longer pendant is probably the easiest combination to try. Right now, the Jenny Bird Zeina Slim Herringbone Chain and Jenny Bird Leon Pendant are a good example of why it works: different shapes, different lengths and enough space for both pieces to be seen.
If you like the layered look but don't want to fuss with several clasps, the Jenny Bird Double Amalfi Chain Necklace does the layering for you.
Come Play With Them
Sometimes you have to try a few combinations before you find the one.
Bring in a necklace you already own if you want. We can help you find something to layer with it, or just start pulling necklaces out of the case and see what looks good.
You can shop our current necklaces online or visit us at Lemonberry in Aurora, Ontario.