You might think the skill is in the name; you literally layer necklaces on top of each other. But there’s so much more to consider! By learning to layer necklaces you can transform a single piece into an elegant statement look. If you want to know more about layered necklaces and necklace stacks peak at this guide to help you unlocking this new accessory style.
How to Layer Necklaces
The first lesson in layering necklaces should be choosing the perfect pieces. A key consideration should be your necklaces length. Think about how you would like your necklaces to sit; at the collarbones or lower on your décolletage? For an equal look consider necklaces layered at an even distance. Three necklaces with 2 inches in difference, such as a 20, 18 and 16 inch will make a striking but balanced look.
Alternatively, some people prefer one necklace much longer than then other, which can look great with lower cut dresses or tops! It really comes down to personal taste, so experience with different lengths as you might be surprised what works!
A lot of necklaces are embellished with a pendant of sorts. A shorter necklace or choker can be elegantly paired with a slightly longer pendant necklace. Delicate pendants are perfect for layering, especially when of a similar style. This 1990s pear cut diamond pendant suspends from a 16’’ belcher style chain and would look beautiful paired with another pear cut pendant such as this contemporary French pendant and chain. At lengths with 2 inches difference these necklaces should layer effortlessly, with different chains to add texture and the added benefit of well colour matched diamonds!
A piece like a watch chain often has a clasp that can feed the chain through to be effortlessly layered on it’s one. Watch chains are great for layering, and are also often worn as bracelets, wrapped multiple times around the wrist.
Layering with Different Golds
Controversial to traditional advice, different tones of gold, when styled correctly, can look beautiful and really compliment an outfit. It’s a myth than gold and silver (in our case, white gold) shouldn’t be worn together! Mixed golds are a great way to style a contemporary look and means you don’t have to choose between your favourite pieces for the sake of wearing only one colour.
Layering with Diamond Necklaces
Diamonds always look sensational and it must be said that you can never have too many! Layering diamond necklaces is a sure favourite of celebrities including Rosie Huntington-Whitley and Charlize Theron. Something to consider when using this style however are the diamonds colour grade. When diamonds are layered different colour grades might become more obvious, so take an interest when choosing the right diamond if you’re going to layer! To the human eye, a diamond graded ‘G’ will not look dissimilar to one graded ‘J’ but might be more noticeable when compared to a faint yellow ‘M’.
Laying with Mixed Gemstones
Think about making one necklace a statement piece! A bright gemstone would look beautiful paired against the brilliant white of diamonds, drawing all the attention to that amazing feature gemstone! Take into consideration that more substantial necklaces might look disproportionate to the necklaces they are paired with, so might look best on the neck solo. We love the styling of this 1920s pearl single strand paired with this mixed aquamarine, pearl and diamond trefoil design necklace for a delicate yet elevated look!
Longuard and Watch Chains
Some pieces of jewellery are perfect for layering. Longuard chains were popularized during the Victorian era as a means to carry practical objects such as keys or more elaborate pocket watches and pendants. Longer chains can be looped multiple times in a variety of styles so try layering the loops to have a choker and two longer chains or you could even aim for three equally spaced layers. Longuard chains often have a swivel clasp allowing for the chain to revolve without twisting – making it very versatile.
How to Stop Layered Necklaces from Tangling
We suggest wearing necklaces at different lengths not only for a balanced look but also for the practicality. At different lengths, the necklaces are less likely to tangle throughout the day. Mixed chain weights should also help reduce tangling, so place thicker chains with more delicate pieces to make sure they stay put.
Another good tip is to put your necklaces on in the right order; shortest to longest. By placing necklaces in their order from the start, they’re move likely to stay in place as you won’t be adjusting or pulling the necklaces through to get them in the right size order.
Detangle your necklaces as soon as you notice! This will avoid a battle later on when all you want to do is get ready for bed! You can straighten your necklaces throughout the day. Start by ensuring that the clasps are lined up at the nape of your neck before using your fingers to separate strands, working towards the front of the necklace, ensuring any charms or pendants are brought to the centre.
