Choosing the right necklace length can be a subtle game-changer in your style repertoire. Whether you’re browsing online or in-store, you’ve likely encountered a common dilemma: should I opt for a 16-inch or an 18-inch necklace? This isn’t merely about aesthetics; it’s about finding a fit that harmonizes with your attire and silhouette.
In a hurry here is our quick answer:
A 16 inch necklace is a short necklace that sits around the base of the neck on top of the clavicle. It is ideal for highlighting your neck and collarbone area, as well as drawing attention to your face. An 18 inch necklace is a slightly longer necklace that falls just below the collarbone. It is the most popular necklace length among women, as it can be worn with almost any neckline and outfit.
In this guide, you will learn:
16-inch Necklace Dynamics
The 18-inch Necklace
Navigating the 16 vs 18 Inch Decision
Pendant Proportions
Style Strategies for Both Lengths
Necklace Care Essentials
FAQ Corner – Addressing common queries in the world of necklaces.
A 16 inch necklace is a collar necklace that sits right at the base of your neck, where your collarbones meet. This length is ideal for showing off your neck and highlighting your collarbones. A 16-inch necklace can also draw attention to your face and make it appear more oval-shaped.
A 16-inch necklace can be worn with or without a pendant, depending on your preference. If you choose to wear a pendant, make sure it is small and delicate, as a large or heavy pendant can weigh down the necklace and make it look awkward. A 16-inch necklace can also be layered with longer necklaces for a trendy and chic look.
Source: zalesoutlet.com
How Does an 18-inch Necklace Fit?
An 18 inch necklace is a princess necklace that falls slightly below your collarbone, about an inch or two above your chest. This length is the most common and versatile choice for both men and women, as it can suit any outfit and any occasion. An 18-inch necklace can also balance out your proportions and create a flattering silhouette.
An 18 inch necklace can be worn with any type of pendant, from simple to statement-making. You can also mix and match different styles and shapes of pendants to create different looks. An 18-inch necklace can also be worn alone or with other necklaces for a layered effect.
How to Choose Between a 16 and an 18 Inch Necklace?
There is no definitive answer to which necklace length is better, as it depends on your personal preference, style, and body type. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you decide which one suits you best.
Consider Your Body Type
Your body type can affect how a necklace’s length looks on you. For example, if you have a petite or slender frame, a 16 inch necklace can fit you perfectly and accentuate your features.
However, if you have a larger or curvier frame, a 16 inch necklace might be too tight or look like a choker on you.
In that case, an 18 inch necklace might be more comfortable and flattering for you.
Similarly,
if you have a long or thin neck, a 16-inch necklace can add some width and dimension to your neck area.
However,
if you have a short or wide neck, a 16 inch necklace might make your neck look shorter or wider than it is. In that case, an 18-inch necklace might be more suitable for you.
Consider Your Face Shape
Your face shape can also influence how a necklace length looks on you.
For example, if you have an oval or round face shape, a 16 inch necklace can highlight your cheekbones and jawline and make your face look more defined.
However, if you have a square or rectangular face shape, a 16-inch necklace might emphasize the angles of your face and make it look harsher.
In that case, an 18 inch necklace might be more flattering for you.
Similarly,
if you have a heart or diamond face shape, an 18 inch necklace can balance out your narrow chin and broad forehead and make your face look more symmetrical.
However, if you have a triangle or inverted triangle face shape, an 18 inch necklace might draw attention to your wide jawline and narrow forehead and make your face look more uneven. In that case, a 16 inch necklace might be more suitable for you.
Consider Your Neckline – 16 vs 18 Inch Necklace
Your neckline can also affect how a necklace length looks on you.
For example, if you are wearing a high neckline, such as a turtleneck or a crew neck, a 16 inch necklace can add some sparkle and interest to your outfit without being hidden by the fabric.
However, if you are wearing a low neckline, such as a V-neck or a scoop neck, a 16 inch necklace might not be visible enough or look too short for your outfit.
In that case, an 18 inch necklace might be more appropriate for you.
Similarly,
if you are wearing a medium neckline, such as a boat neck or a sweetheart neck, an 18 inch necklace can fall perfectly on your chest and create a beautiful focal point for your outfit.
However, if you are wearing a very low neckline, such as a plunging neck or an off-the-shoulder neck, an 18 inch necklace might not be long enough or look too plain for your outfit. In that case, a longer necklace might be more suitable for you.
16 vs 18 Inch Necklace – How to Choose the Right Pendant Size for Your Necklace?
Another factor that can affect how your necklace looks on you is the size of the pendant. A pendant is a piece of jewelry that hangs from a chain or cord and can be made of various materials, shapes, and designs. A pendant can add some personality and charm to your necklace, as well as accentuate your features and style.
However, not all pendants are suitable for all necklace lengths. You need to consider the size, weight, and shape of the pendant in relation to the length of the chain or cord.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right pendant size for your necklace:
If you have a 16 inch necklace, you may want to choose a small or medium-sized pendant that is light and delicate. A large or heavy pendant may look awkward or uncomfortable on a short necklace, as it may pull down the chain or cord and create a gap between the necklace and your skin. A small or medium-sized pendant will fit nicely on a 16 inch necklace and create a subtle and elegant look.
If you have an 18 inch necklace, you may want to choose a medium or large-sized pendant that is bold and striking. A small or light pendant may look too insignificant or invisible on a longer necklace, as it may get lost in the space below your collarbone. A medium or large-sized pendant will stand out on an 18 inch necklace and create a stunning and eye-catching look.
16 vs 18 Inch Necklace – How to Style Your Necklace with Different Outfits?
One of the best things about necklaces is that they can be worn with different outfits and occasions. Whether you are dressing up or down, casual or formal, you can always find a necklace that will match your mood and style. However, you also need to consider how your necklace will coordinate with your clothing choices, such as the color, pattern, fabric, and neckline of your outfit. Here are some tips to help you style your 16 or 18 Inch necklace with different outfits:
If you have a 16-inch necklace, you may want to wear it with high or closed necklines such as turtlenecks, boat necks, cowl necks, or button-up shirts. A 16 inch necklace will fit nicely above your clothing and create a chic and sophisticated look. You can also wear it with solid colors or simple patterns that will not compete with your necklace for attention.
If you have an 18 inch necklace, you may want to wear it with low or open necklines such as V-necks, scoop necks, plunging necks, or off-the-shoulder tops. An 18 inch necklace will fill in the space below your clothing and create a glamorous and sexy look. You can also wear it with contrasting colors or bold patterns that will enhance your necklace and make it pop.
How to Care for Your Necklace?
Necklaces are precious pieces of jewelry that need proper care and maintenance to keep them in good condition and extend their lifespan. Whether your necklace is made of gold, silver, platinum, copper, brass, stainless steel, or any other metal, you need to protect it from dirt, dust, moisture, chemicals, scratches, and tarnishing.
Here are some tips to help you care for your necklace:
Store your necklace in a cool, dry, and dark place when not in use. You can use a jewelry box, pouch, or bag that is lined with soft fabric or tissue paper. Avoid storing your necklace with other jewelry pieces that may scratch or damage it.
Clean your necklace regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or dust. You can also use a mild soap and water solution or a jewelry cleaner that is suitable for your metal type. Rinse well and dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Polish your necklace occasionally with a polishing cloth or pad to restore its shine and luster. You can also use a polishing agent that is appropriate for your metal type. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-polishing.
Avoid wearing your necklace when swimming, bathing, showering, exercising, sleeping, or doing any activities that may expose it to water, sweat, heat, humidity, chlorine, saltwater, perfume, lotion, hairspray, makeup, or any other chemicals that may corrode or discolor it.
Check your necklace regularly for any signs of wear and tear such as loose clasps, broken links, chipped stones, bent wires, or cracked beads. If you notice any damage or defect on your necklace, take it to a professional jeweler for repair as soon as possible.
FAQs
What is the difference between a 16 inch and an 18 inch necklace?
A 16 inch necklace is a short necklace that sits around the base of the neck on top of the clavicle. An 18 inch necklace is a slightly longer necklace that falls just below the collarbone.
How do I know which necklace length will fit me best?
You can measure your neck size by using a flexible measuring tape or a piece of string and wrapping it around your neck where you want your necklace to sit. Then mark the point where the ends meet and measure the length in inches. This will give you your neck size.
How do I choose between a 16 inch and an 18 inch necklace based on my face shape?
If you have a round or square face shape, you may benefit from a 16 inch necklace that will create contrast and soften your features. If you have an oval or heart-shaped face, you may favor an 18 inch necklace that will complement your natural curves and symmetry.
How do I choose between a 16 inch and an 18 inch necklace based on my body type?
If you have a petite or slim body type, you may enjoy a 16 inch necklace that will accentuate your delicate frame and add some dimension to your chest area. If you have a curvy or busty body type, you may prefer an 18 inch necklace that will balance out your proportions and draw attention away from your bust.
Final Words: 16 vs 18 Inch Necklace
Choosing between a 16 and an 18 inch necklace can be tricky, as both lengths have their pros and cons.
However, by considering your body type, face shape, and neckline, you can find the necklace length that works best for you and your style.
Remember that there is no right or wrong answer, as long as you feel comfortable and confident in your choice.
Camila Luna is a passionate jewelry enthusiast and content creator at Miami Jewelry Co. With a focus on providing high-quality, Miami-style jewelry, Camila and her team specialize in a wide range of jewelry that includes bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and more
