Necklaces and Necklines: A Guide to Pairing Your Jewellery and Clothing to Suit Your Shape
When it comes to fashion, choosing the right necklace can make or break an outfit. But how do you choose the perfect necklace for your top? It's all about matching the neckline with complementary jewellery. Here’s a guide to matching the right necklace with various neckline styles, to create the perfect balance of style and elegance, so you can get the most out of your jewellery and your wardrobe.
V-Neckline: The Elongating Choice
Necklace Type: Pendant or Y-Necklace
V-necklines are seen as universally flattering, creating the illusion of a longer neck and torso. To complement a V-neck, opt for a pendant or a Y-shaped necklace. These necklaces mirror the V-neck shape, further elongating the body’s frame. We love the Solid White Gold Diamond Lariat Necklace from Lily and Roo for a minimalist yet luxe vibe, and the Mesmera Y Necklace from Swarovski for an eye-catching piece.
Best For: Apple-shaped or petite figures, as they elongate the body and add balance.
Scoop Neckline: Effortlessly Elegant
Necklace Type: Short to Medium-Length Delicate Chains or Statement Pieces
The scoop neck's versatile style creates the perfect canvas for jewellery—from subtle to bold. For an elegant look, choose a delicate chain or short pendant. For a more impactful look, opt for a statement necklace to elevate your outfit. The Lucy Williams Entwine Necklace by Missoma offers a refined finishing touch.
Best For: Hourglass or rectangle body shapes, as they draw attention to the collarbones while creating a longer, leaner silhouette.
Round Neckline: Chic & Classic
Necklace Type: Choker or Collar-Style Necklace
Round necklines are all about simplicity and elegance. A choker or collar necklace, such as Carat London’s Carissa Necklace, sits just above the collarbone, drawing attention upward and adding sophistication. This pairing is perfect for a refined and polished looks.
Best For: Tall figures, as it helps balance proportions by shortening the neck and torso.
Off-the-Shoulder: Bold & Beautiful
Necklace Type: Choker, Collar, or Simple Chain
An off-the-shoulder neckline demands jewellery that complements the exposed shoulders. A statement choker or collar necklace, like the Clara Necklace by PRYA, is the perfect addition to keep your look balanced and bold without overwhelming the neckline.
Best For: Pear-shaped bodies, as it draws attention to the shoulders and helps balance wider hips.
Boat Neckline: Graceful & Layered
Necklace Type: Long or Layered Necklaces
Elegant, wide boat neck style tops are best paired with long necklaces that add dimension and sophistication. Consider the timeless Elsa Peretti Pearls by the Yard sprinkle Necklace from Tiffany and Co for an understated yet luxe statement.
Best For: Smaller busts or triangle body shapes, as the width of the neckline balances proportions by adding volume to the upper body.
Strapless: Dramatic & Statement-Making
Necklace Type: Statement Necklace or Long Pendant
Strapless styles give you the freedom to wear bold jewellery unapologetically. A chunky statement necklace or a long pendant will fill the space and draw more attention to your neckline. The Thomas Sabo Charm Necklace offers the perfect balance of elegance and impact to create the perfect look.
Best For: Hourglass or inverted triangle body types, as strapless tops already highlight the shoulders, making a statement necklace a perfect complement.
Halter Neckline: Subtle or Nothing
Necklace Type: Minimalist Pendant or None
Halter necklines are a statement in themselves, so keep your jewellery to a minimum. A simple pendant or none at all will allow your top to remain the focal point of the look. A piece like the handcrafted Freshwater Pearl Necklace is perfect for a classic, tasteful look.
Best For: Inverted triangle or rectangle body types, as the neckline emphasises the shoulders and upper body, while minimalist jewellery doesn’t compete for attention.
Sweetheart Neckline: Romantic & Feminine
Necklace Type: Short Necklace or Delicate Choker
Sweetheart necklines are designed to highlight the neck, collarbones, and shoulders. A short necklace or delicate choker that sits just above the curve of the neckline will emphasize the soft, rounded shape. The Coco Crush Necklace by Chanel is a luxurious choice that could be paired with this type of neckline.
Best For: Hourglass figures, as the shape accentuates the curves and adds a touch of femininity.
Square Neckline: Bold & Balanced
Necklace Type: Delicate Chain, Pendant, or a Multi-Strand Choker
A square neckline pairs beautifully with necklaces that soften the sharp lines. A simple pendant necklace or a multi-strand choker can create balance while adding texture and detail to centre the look. Try the Swarovski Hyperbola Choker for a chic, contemporary touch.
Best For: Rectangle body types, as it creates the illusion of curves and softens angular lines.
Plunging Neckline: Sleek & Sexy
Necklace Type: Long Pendant, Y-Necklace, or Layered Chain
A plunging style neckline deserves a necklace that complements its boldness. A long pendant or a Y-necklace that elongates your figure works wonders, while layering delicate chains can add drama without overpowering the look. The Gucci Link-to-Love Necklace is perfect for creating a sleek, elongating effect.
Best For: Tall or hourglass figures, as the long necklace elongates the torso and adds a modern, dramatic flair.
Tips and Tricks to Take Away
Balance is Key: Pair statement necklaces with simple outfits, and choose delicate pieces when your outfit already makes a bold statement.
Consider the Proportions: With high necklines, avoid short or chunky necklaces that can crowd the space—instead, choose longer, sleeker pieces.
Match the Mood: Choose refined jewelry for elegant, minimalist necklines. With dramatic necklines, embrace bold statement pieces.
Choosing the right necklace for your neckline and body type is all about harmony. Whether you prefer to keep it simple or to make a bold statement, the perfect jewellery piece will elevate your outfit effortlessly. Keep in mind the shape, structure, and overall vibe of your top, and let your necklace complement and complete the look. From plunging necklines to boat necks, these pairing tips will ensure your outfits always thrive—no matter the occasion.