Layered necklaces look easy when they're done well, and the secret is mostly length. Pick chains that land at different spots, mix a dainty one with something bolder, and they won't tangle into one another. Here's how to layer necklaces, with a length chart and the chains we reach for.
Necklace length chart
Where a length lands depends on your neck and neckline, but this is a good guide:
| Length | Where it usually falls |
|---|---|
| 14 inches | Close to the base of the neck |
| 15 to 16 inches | Around the collarbone |
| 18 inches | Just below the collarbone |
| 20 inches | A few inches below the collarbone |
| 24 inches | Down toward the top of the neckline |
Many of our necklaces also come with a 3 inch extender, so one chain can sit a little higher or lower.
How to layer necklaces in 4 steps
- Start short and dainty. Your first layer is a fine chain at 14 to 16 inches.
- Space them about 2 inches apart. Try 16, 18 and 20 inches, so each layer has its own spot.
- Mix weights and textures. Pair a dainty chain with a bolder chain or a beaded necklace.
- Finish with a charm or pendant. Put it on your longest layer so it has room to hang.
The short layer: dainty chains
- Rayna Necklace: tiny 14k gold plated beads in 14, 16 or 18 inches, light enough to forget she's on.
- Larisa Necklace: a ball chain of smooth, polished beads in gold or silver, 14 or 16 inches.
- Molly Necklace: a 2mm cube link chain in gold or silver, 15, 18 or 24 inches.
- Claire Necklace: a 3mm twisted rope chain in gold or silver, 15 or 18 inches.
The middle layer: a chain with some shape
- Sullivan Necklace: a sleek 4.5mm fox chain in gold or silver, 14, 16 or 18 inches.
- Venus Necklace: long paperclip links in gold or silver, 16 or 18 inches.
- Noa Necklace: long, slim oval links in gold or silver, 16 or 18 inches.
The bold layer: chunky chains
- Aria Necklace: 7mm rolo links with a big OT clasp to show off at the front.
- Sawyer Necklace: chunky 15mm oval links and a toggle clasp, 15 or 18 inches. She has no extender, so pick your length carefully.
The charm layer
The Tate Necklace is a rolo chain with a circle clasp that opens to hold a charm or two, in 15, 18, 20 or 24 inches, so she works well as your longest layer. Our guide to building your own charm necklace has charm ideas, and you can pick yours in Pick your charms.
Want the layered look without layering?
- Leah Necklace 2mm: three flat herringbone strands at 16, 18 and 20 inches on one clasp, in gold or silver. No untangling.
- Moonlit Necklace Stack: the Peony and Lyra Necklaces sold together as a layered set, 16 or 18 inches.
Layering necklaces FAQ
How do you keep layered necklaces from tangling?
Space your lengths about 2 inches apart and mix weights: a heavier chain or a pendant on the bottom layer helps everything hang straight. Or wear the Leah Necklace, which has its three layers on one clasp.
Can you mix gold and silver necklaces?
Yes. Most of our chains come in both, so you can mix them on purpose, like a silver Claire with a gold Molly.
How many necklaces should you layer?
Two or three is the sweet spot for every day. Add a fourth with a charm when you want more.
Shop layering necklaces
See them all in The Layering Edit and Chain Necklaces, or find ready-made sets in Necklace Stacks.