NEcklace + Neckline Combos Demystified

One of the joys of my job is meeting many new and interesting people. Recently, a group of awesome ladies hired me for a sister's weekend to answer some style questions. Because, as one sister put it, "we were raised with the cows (we grew up on a dairy farm in Wyoming), but we were literally raised with the cows, and it is SO showing right now." In an effort to teach fashion guidelines, I found myself at a downtown hotel, changing clothes (to demonstrate different looks), matching colors and talking all things figure types with the funnest group of sisters.  We had a blast, the sisters learned a ton, although it could have been entertaining to have a few cows, sadly they did not make the trip. From this demo, the sisters noticed how much jewelry can complete the look, and can add a unique touch of YOU. There were many questions on this topic. Do you ever get dressed and as you're about to rush out the door wonder what necklace you should wear with that top, then just go without because there's no time to think it through? If so, here are the guidelines for necklines and jewels.  My goal is to help you know how to quickly complete your look without looking too complicated, even if you weren't raised with cows or chickens or any type of farm animal. ​
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​First off, it's helpful to have a few general guidelines...

• Match the shape of the neckline with the necklace.

V shape in the neckline = V shape in the necklace

Round shape in the neckline = round shape in the necklace

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• Repeat the colors, textures or patterns of the outfit in your jewelry as well.  ​

Necklace repeats red and rounded shapes in the top.

Necklace repeats ivory and shell texture in the top.

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• The higher the neckline, the longer the necklace; the lower the neckline, the more you should split the difference between the neck and the neckline - meaning put the necklace in the middle of the space in between the neck and the neckline of the top. ​

Higher neckline = longer necklace

Lower neckline = put necklace in the middle of open space

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For you super students who would like more detail, here's a breakdown of the best necklace and neckline combinations:

1. V-Neck 

• Best Options: Pendant necklaces, Y-necklaces, or lariats that mimic the "V" shape.
• Avoid: necklaces that hang just below the neckline.

2. Crew Neck

• Best Options: Short statement necklaces, collar necklaces, or chunky pieces that sit just above the fabric.
• Avoid: Dainty necklaces that sit right on the hem of the neckline. 

3. Scoop Neck

• Best Options: Short, round necklaces that follow the curve of the neck, or bib/fringe necklaces to fill the open space.
• Avoid: necklaces that hang just below the scoop.​

4. Turtleneck / High Neck

• Best Options: Long chains, pendants, or delicate layered necklaces.
• Avoid: short necklaces that are so close to the neck they appear to “choke you” or aren’t seen under the neckline (obvi).

5. Off-the-Shoulder / Strapless 

• Best Options: No necklace or chokers, collars, or statement necklaces.
• Avoid: Long necklaces.

6. Square Neck

• Best Options: Pendants with sharp, geometric angles or a simple choker to mirror the neckline's shape. 
• Avoid: rounded shapes, unless there are rounded shapes in the pattern.

7. Boat Neck / Boat Neck

• Best Options: Longer, dainty necklaces (20–24 inches) that cut through the horizontal line and elongate the torso.
• Avoid: Short dainty that get buried under the neckline.

8. Halter Neck 

• Best Options: Usually none. The neck structure is the focal point.
• Avoid: Any necklace that gets tangled in the neckline.

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Your face shape is also a big factor in your jewelry and neckline choices. Wondering what your face shape is? The best hair style and make-up enhancement for your face shape and lifestyle? Check out my Fresh Face & Hair Session here. 

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If you’re looking to evolve your style. Or if you just want to stop the buy/purge cycle & be more intentional with what you purchase & how you utilize what you have, you'll love this. 

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