Necklaces are the centerpiece of any jewelry collection, a symphony of lustrous metals and dazzling gemstones that beautifully frame the wearer's neck. They enhance and highlight the sharpness of your facial features in a subtle and elegant way. While a single statement necklace can be a great conversation starter, layering more than one neckpiece at a time showcases the wearer’s styling expertise. Regardless of the necklace styles you choose, adhering to our key styling guidelines will ensure you master the art of layering necklaces most impeccably.
Layering a Droplet Necklace
In the case of droplet necklaces, you already have an exquisite element with the drops, so go easy on the layering, opting for one more chain at the most. It is easy for droplet necklaces to tangle, so keep your other choice simple and fuss-free. The sharp idea is to use a plain choker in the same or in a contrasting metal shade to offset the droplet necklace. Droplet necklaces are the ideal accessories for a cocktail event with an evening gown, so layering them the right way can instantly make you sparkle and be the belle of the ball.
14K White and Yellow Gold Diamond Bujukan Droplet Necklace
Layering a Diamond Pendant Necklace
Layering a diamond pendant necklace enhances its sophisticated, dazzling appeal. Keeping the diamond necklace in focus, add a gold or diamond choker that elevates the glam without overpowering. You can also add minimalist medium-length metal chains for a more dressed-up look, playing with variations of metal color, thickness, and texture. While layering a diamond pendant necklace may seem an uncomplicated affair, ensure that the final look is effortless on the eye and looks beautifully put together.
14K White Gold Diamond Circle Pendant Necklace
Layering a Y Knot Necklace
Y knot necklaces exude a feminine and ethereal charm on their own. But since they are effortless and minimally graceful, it helps to add a more structured neckpiece that lends a deeper dimension. Pick a solid choker or a tennis necklace in a matching metal as the Y knot necklace. Play around with variations in texture, design, and embellishments. With this, you can also slip in a sleek, mid-length chain design and then add on the Y knot necklace for a perfectly balanced tiered look. This look is a strong style statement and perfect for a night out clubbing with friends, paired with a casual party outfit or maybe even a formal satin dress.
14K White and Yellow Gold Diamond Drop And Hollow Link Chain Y Knots Necklace
Layering a Bar Necklace
A bar necklace in a precious metal embellished with diamonds looks beautiful. However, to add to its appeal, it is suggested that a visually striking design be added to the mix. Opt for a simple pendant necklace with a clean, geometric visual in a matching metal – although you needn’t necessarily break the bank. This is perfect for office wear and instantly makes you feel beautiful in the boardroom. To transition day to night, you can top up the look with a long string of tiny pearls to elevate your look.
14K Yellow Gold Graduated Diamond Bar Necklace
Layering a Medallion Necklace
A medallion necklace stands out as a bold style statement on its own and does not require much layering to grab attention. Pair it with a similar metal chain with complementing design aesthetic and texture. If the medallion pendant features diamonds, consider a sleek chain of mid- to long length embellished with diamonds or colored gemstones or a sleek choker to create a visually intriguing ensemble. Keep the look simple and lightweight, highlighting the medallion as the center of focus.
10K Yellow Gold Diamond Fluted Medallion Necklace
Layering Beaded Necklaces
Beaded necklaces are so versatile that you can literally play around with layering them. So, make them your anchor layer, and then build around the strand with various other necklaces. Striking pendant necklaces will especially look great alongside their beaded counterparts since these can help add a touch of symmetry. You can also add a pop of color to beaded necklaces, opting for gemstones that exude life and glamour. Team these with a summer dress or a casual day, exuding a sophisticated boho chic vibe.
14K Yellow Gold Piatto Chain with Red Enamel Beads
Layering Link Chain Necklaces
Link chain necklaces, known for their chunkier design compared to other necklaces, require thoughtful layering to achieve a balanced look. When in doubt, always pair it down with more slender necklaces that create an elegant visual element without detracting from the main attraction. This creates intrigue and a play on thicknesses for an eclectic look. Link chains can be worn with an LBD, a pair of jeans, or a sarong on the beach with equal confidence.
10K Yellow Gold Light Paper Clip Chain Necklace
Things to Keep in Mind When Layering Necklaces
1. When you start layering, keep a focal or statement piece in mind. Build the entire necklace ensemble around this design, complementing it further rather than taking away from it.
2. Do not overwhelm your overall look with too many different statement pieces. Layer necklaces in a balanced way to create a pleasing rather than jarring appearance. Even when layering, less can be more.
3. You can easily juxtapose metals with one another – such as white and yellow gold or rose gold and silver- but make sure you do it with care. There should ideally be a common strand – either texture or gemstones, for instance – that ties them in aesthetically.
4. Layering is typically done with different neckpiece lengths to show them off to the maximum advantage. This way, enough depth is created, and each piece gets the visual spotlight it deserves. Also, you’re able to avoid tangles. When in doubt, ensure that the top and bottom necklaces are the stars of the show, while the middle layer can be a simple, neutral piece.
5. You can mix and match textures and finishes in the same material. This creates an interesting visual dimension and offers variety.
6. When deciding on how to layer your necklaces, consider where you are wearing them to. For instance, it is best suggested to not overdo your layering game for a workplace look. Think of thin, sophisticated neckpieces to ensure a professional corporate look.
7. Always take the neckline of your outfit into account. A turtleneck will not favor a choker, while a tank top will show it off beautifully. You don’t want key aspects of your necklace hidden by part of your top, do you? The style of the outfit matters as well. You may not necessarily be able to pull off Cuban-style necklaces with an elegant ballgown. And lastly, though this may not seem important, your neck and face shape also matter. Rounder faces with shorter necks cannot pull off tighter chokers.
8. There is no specific rule dictating the number of necklaces you should layer at a time. However, the rule of thumb is to not exceed three necklaces for any mood or occasion.
9. Be clever while using colored gemstones in your necklaces. They add the much-desired vibrancy to the look but make sure they don’t clash with one another.
Written By: Gabriel Editorial Team
