10 Types of Necklaces to Elevate Your Jewelry Collection

Necklaces have a way of making every ensemble shine just a tad brighter. These precious chains, whether dainty or bold, work wonders in elevating even the simplest of outfits.

Imagine turning that everyday look into a conversation starter. Or taking an evening dress to the heights of elegance—all with the magic touch of a necklace.

But here's the twist: not all necklaces are created equal. Some whisper style, while others scream elegance. From the subtle allure of pendants to the undeniable statement of layered chains, each necklace has its unique charm.

Ready for a style journey? Let's delve deeper into a world of ten necklace types, each promising to add a distinct touch to your wardrobe.

Whether you're stepping out for a casual coffee or heading to an upscale event, the right necklace can be your ultimate style partner.

So, let's unlock the secrets of these style game-changers!

10 Different Types of Necklaces

Dive into the enchanting universe of necklaces, where each type tells a story and adds a sprinkle of magic to your style. 

From delicate charms to bold statements, these ten different necklaces are here to transform your wardrobe and make every moment a fashion highlight.

1. Choker Necklace

Choker Necklace

Choker necklaces, a beloved jewelry item, have consistently won the adoration of many through the ages. Sitting snugly at the base of the neck, they have a unique charm that's hard to resist.

Choker necklaces have stood the test of time, effortlessly blending vintage appeal with contemporary style. Whether you're aiming for subtlety or making a statement, a choker finds its place.

Real-World Choker Styling Tips
  • Work Wear: Pair a delicate, thin choker with a collared shirt and blazer. It adds a touch of femininity to a professional look.
  • Casual Day Out: A leather or fabric choker can add a trendy touch to a simple jeans and tee outfit.
  • Dinner Date: Choose a choker with a pendant or jewel. When combined with a dress or a stylish top, it elevates the entire ensemble.
  • Weekend Brunch: Opt for a lace or ribbon choker to pair with a flowy dress or a casual skirt and top combo.

Choker necklaces bring versatility to any wardrobe. They're not just about following a trend but embracing a style that complements the wearer's personality and occasion.

2. Pendant Necklace

Pendant Necklace

Pendant necklaces, with their dangling delights, have been charming jewelry enthusiasts for centuries. Offering a central point of focus, they're the perfect blend of subtlety and statement.

Pendants have an uncanny ability to capture stories, memories, or simply a fashion moment. Whether it's a locket holding a cherished photo or a contemporary geometric design, pendant necklaces always carry a narrative.

Styling Your Pendant Necklace with Flair
  • At the Office: A subtle, elegant pendant can be the perfect complement to your work attire. Paired with a crisp shirt or a sheath dress, it’s understated yet impactful.
  • Casual Meet-ups: Throw on a longer chain with a quirky pendant to add personality to your jeans and casual top ensemble.
  • Special Occasions: A gem-encrusted pendant or one with intricate designs can make heads turn at weddings, dinners, or parties. Combine with an evening gown or a sophisticated dress.
  • Relaxed Outings: For those laid-back days or brunch outings, a simple pendant on a silver or gold chain works wonders with a sundress or a comfy blouse and skirt combo.

Pendant necklaces provide versatility and a touch of personalization. They're a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more, and a little dangling charm can speak volumes.

3. Statement Necklace

Statement Necklace

The statement necklace, true to its name, enters a room even before you do. Bold, daring, and impossible to ignore, it’s the jewelry piece that encapsulates confidence and style in one fell swoop.

No wallflowers here. Statement necklaces are designed for those who love to express their unique style with audacity. They're not just accessories; they're conversation starters, ensuring that the wearer stands out in any gathering.

Mastering the Art of Wearing a Statement Necklace
  • Corporate Chic: Yes, you can wear a statement piece to work! Pair it with a monochrome outfit, like a black dress or a white blouse and tailored pants, letting the necklace be the star.
  • Casual Affair: Jazz up a basic tee and jeans. A bold necklace transforms a simple outfit into a fashion-forward look in an instant.
  • Event Ready: Attending a gala, wedding, or a posh dinner? Allow your statement necklace to complement an elegant dress, making you the belle of the ball.
  • Weekend Vibes: Even a cozy sweater or a relaxed maxi dress can benefit from a splash of drama. Add a statement necklace for that perfect finishing touch.

Statement necklaces are for those unafraid to showcase their style. They declare to the world, "Here I am," all while adding a dash of panache to any ensemble.

4. Layered Necklace

Layered Necklace

The layered necklace is like a symphony around your neck, each chain playing its part in a harmonious ensemble. It's the art of wearing multiple necklaces at once, creating depth, texture, and a chic cascade of elegance.

Layering isn't just about quantity; it's about curating a blend of pieces that resonate with each other. The beauty of layered necklaces lies in their intricacy and the stories they weave together with each tier.

Tips to Rock the Layered Look
  • Business Casual: Keep it sophisticated with a duo of delicate chains of varying lengths, perhaps one with a pendant, paired with a buttoned-up blouse or a sleek dress.
  • Day Out with Friends: Experiment with diverse textures and lengths. Mix metals, throw in some beads, and let the layers playfully complement your casual attire.
  • Gala Nights: Opt for layers embedded with crystals or pearls, cascading down a chic evening dress, elevating the luxe factor.
  • Beach Day: Think boho! A combination of thin chains, interspersed with charms or shells, complements a breezy beach dress or a crop top and skirt duo perfectly.

Layered necklaces offer a canvas for creativity. It's about juxtaposing, contrasting, and harmonizing, giving every outfit a bespoke touch.

5. Opera Necklace

Opera Necklace

The Opera Necklace, with its elongated elegance, is a class apart. Draping gracefully, it’s a harmonious blend of tradition and modern-day sophistication, echoing notes of grandeur and understatement simultaneously.

Woven into the rich tapestry of jewelry history, Opera Necklaces evoke an old-world charm. Perfect for adding a touch of class to any attire, they're a favorite among those who appreciate the nuanced art of accessorizing.

Nailing the Opera Necklace Look
  • Boardroom Brilliance: Even in professional settings, an Opera Necklace, when paired with a sleek dress or suit, can enhance your aura, merging power with grace.
  • Casual Elegance: Elevate a simple tunic or a midi dress by allowing an Opera Necklace to drape beautifully, adding depth to your casual look.
  • Gala Nights: When attending more formal events, an Opera Necklace layered or doubled up can work wonders with gowns, creating a regal appearance.
  • Relaxed Yet Refined: For those brunches or evening soirees, let an Opera Necklace add a touch of refined glam to your maxi dresses or even jumpsuits.

Opera Necklaces are a testament to the charm of versatility, effortlessly fitting into varied settings, and making them undeniably irresistible.

6. Princess Necklace

Princess Necklace

The Princess Necklace, with its regal allure, evokes images of elegance and timeless beauty. Suited for both the modern woman and royalty at heart, it's a piece that transcends fleeting trends.

Steeped in tradition yet incredibly versatile, the Princess Necklace is the embodiment of grace. Its length, typically just below the collarbone, allows it to complement a myriad of necklines, making it a cherished piece in many jewelry boxes.

Adorning Yourself with the Princess Necklace
  • Boardroom Ready: Drape a subtle princess necklace over a blouse or a business suit. Its length complements V-necks and button-ups alike, adding a hint of sophistication.
  • Casual Elegance: Whether it’s a day at the cafe or a stroll in the park, pair this necklace with a midi dress or a chic top for a touch of refined casual.
  • Evening Galas: Match a diamond-studded princess necklace with an evening gown or cocktail dress. The sparkle will enhance your natural radiance.
  • Weekend Getaways: Keep it simple and stylish. A princess necklace paired with a sundress or a knit top ensures you look polished, even on relaxed days.

The Princess Necklace is more than just a piece of jewelry. It's a nod to the elegance inherent in every woman, waiting to be showcased.

7. Matinee Necklace

Matinee Necklace

The matinee necklace, gracefully dangling between the collarbone and the bust, brings a touch of classic elegance. It's the versatile mid-length choice that adds sophistication to both day and evening wear.

Striking the perfect balance between chokers and opera necklaces, the matinee style exudes an aura of refined grace. It’s the necklace that whispers class rather than shouting it, making it a favorite for many jewelry aficionados.

Versatile Ways to Don the Matinee Necklace
  • Business Casual: With a blouse and pencil skirt, a matinee necklace adds a touch of elegance without overpowering the professional vibe.
  • Everyday Elegance: Perfect with a V-neck tee or a casual dress, this necklace length complements daily outfits by adding a hint of sophistication.
  • Evening Out: Whether it's a cocktail party or a theatre night, pair your matinee necklace with a mid-length dress to enhance its beauty.
  • Leisurely Lunch: Going for a relaxed, yet chic vibe? Combine this necklace with a button-down shirt and capris for a classic look.

Matinee necklaces are all about elevating everyday fashion. They seamlessly fit into various settings, making them an essential piece in every woman's jewelry box.

8. Lariat Necklace

Lariat Necklace

The lariat necklace, often known as the "lasso of luxury," dances between elegance and intrigue. With its unique design and fluidity, it offers a fresh spin to the conventional necklace narrative.

Unlike traditional necklaces that have a clasp, the lariat drapes and flows, often culminating in tassels or decorative ends. Its design exudes a sense of freedom, making it a favorite among those who cherish a blend of grace and individuality.

Drape Yourself in Lariat Elegance: Styling Tips
  • Business Casual: Enhance a V-neck blouse with a lariat necklace, letting its ends cascade beautifully. It's sophistication with a twist.
  • Everyday Ensemble: Pairing a lariat with a simple crew neck tee or a button-down shirt can instantly add a dash of chic to your day.
  • Evening Elegance: Dressing for a date night or an upscale event? Let the lariat's ends peek through an evening gown or a jumpsuit for that touch of allure.
  • Boho Charm: For a more relaxed, bohemian vibe, layer the lariat with other necklaces while donning a flowy maxi dress or a boho top.

Lariat necklaces are all about fluidity and versatility. For those looking to break away from the norm while still embracing elegance, this is your necklace of choice.

9. Collar Necklace

Collar Necklace

When sophistication meets style, you get the collar necklace. Sitting snugly around the neck, this piece exudes elegance, reminiscent of royal adornments and high-fashion couture.

The collar necklace, with its close-fit allure, is a throwback to classic times yet manages to be in vogue today. It's the jewelry item for those who love grace with a touch of grandeur.

Dazzling Ways to Don a Collar Necklace
  • Business Class: Bring out your inner CEO. Wear a collar necklace with a button-down shirt or a structured dress for a polished, commanding look.
  • Casual Elegance: Combine the collar necklace with a round or scoop-neck top. It fills the neckline beautifully, turning your casual outfit into something special.
  • Gala Nights: When paired with a strapless gown or a deep V-neck dress, a collar necklace ensures all eyes are on you during those plush events.
  • Daytime Chic: For daytime dos or afternoon luncheons, combine a collar necklace with a feminine blouse or a midi dress for a look that's effortlessly elegant.

Collar necklaces are the epitome of chic. They seamlessly blend the past's sophistication with today's fashion, ensuring the wearer is always in the spotlight.

10. Bib Necklace

Bib Necklace

The bib necklace, reminiscent of regal attire, is the epitome of grandeur in the jewelry world. Cascading down the neckline like a royal sash, it exudes an air of luxury and sophistication.

Taking inspiration from its namesake – a baby's bib – this necklace covers a portion of the chest with intricate designs, gems, or patterns. It’s a piece of art that transforms any outfit into a lavish ensemble, echoing tales of opulence and elegance.

Effortlessly Styling the Bib Necklace
  • Corporate Elegance: Pair a subtle, metallic bib necklace with your power suit. It adds a dash of regal touch without overpowering your professional look.
  • Casual Outings: A bohemian-style bib necklace can be the perfect accompaniment for a sundress or even a simple white tee and denim combo.
  • Gala Nights: Adorn your evening gown with a gem-studded bib necklace, and you’re instantly red-carpet ready.
  • Laid-back Luxe: Heading for a brunch or a coffee date? A fabric or beaded bib necklace can uplift a casual top or a relaxed dress, making you look effortlessly chic.

The bib necklace isn't just a piece of jewelry; it's a statement of affluence and style. It promises to elevate every attire, ensuring you always leave a lasting impression.

Summing Up!

Exploring different types of necklaces can be exciting! From chokers to bibs, each necklace has its own charm. They don't just add sparkle but also show your unique style. 

So, whether you want to wear a pendant for a casual outing or a statement piece for a big event, there's a necklace for every mood and moment. Remember, it's all about finding what feels right for you. Happy accessorizing!

FAQs on Types of Necklaces

1. Can I wear multiple types of necklaces together?

Yes! Layering different necklaces can create a trendy and personalized look. Just ensure they complement each other.

2. Which type of necklace is best for formal events?

Opera and bib necklaces are popular choices for formal events due to their elegance and statement-making potential.

3. Are there specific necklaces suitable for daily wear?

Certainly! Pendant and princess necklaces are versatile choices for everyday wear, blending seamlessly with various outfits.

4. Which necklace types are trending currently?

Layered and lariat necklaces have been trending, offering both style and versatility for modern looks.

5. How do I choose the right necklace length?

It depends on your preference and the neckline of your outfit. However, princess and matinee lengths are universally flattering.