Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Jewelry Tips, Hints and Tricks: Necklace Sizing

Necklace Lengths and Sizing 



Necklace sizing is truly a personal thing. As a designer I have to try to create for the "average" person. This can be truly diffcult. I personally don't believe in "average" but for all intents and purposes you have to kind of pick middle of the road, right? Well, yes and no!


When I create necklaces I always leave a little "tail" of a larger size chain on the end so the necklace is adjustable. It can range from 2 to 6 inches depending on the style. This way it will comfortably fit more than just the "average" while also making it possible for the purchaser to wear the same necklace with a variety of necklines for not only today's fashions but any style that may come along. 

  1. The perfect size for you: To find the ideal length for a necklace that will sit just above your collarbone, use a measuring tape to measure your neck and add 2 to 4 inches. This will help ensure a looser, more comfortable fit.
  2. Measure for a choker: If you want a choker the standard size is 16 inches. For a more snug fit, measure the exact length around your neck.
  3. Standard sizes for children: For children's necklaces, 12 to 16 inches is considered standard. Some chokers for women can come in sizes as small as 14 inches, however.
  4. Sizing for men: For men, the necklace should sit at the collarbone when it is worn with an open shirt collar. If worn with a pendant or medallion, the chain should be slightly longer. Men's chains generally measure between 18 inches and 20 inches in length for a necklace that will lie at the collarbone.
The illustrations below show necklaces and where they fall on the "average" neck of a woman. Add 2-4 inches for men's styles or a woman in the plus size range. Subtract 1-3 inches for very petite women. 




4 comments :

  1. I really enjoyed reading about necklace resizing. Yeah, this is truly a personal and creative thing. I am also a designer and love necklace sizing.

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    1. So glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for stopping by and for leaving your comment. You made my day. :)

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  2. your tutorials are brilliant and so clearly put, I am pinning them for future reference and for others to see :) thank you Dawn! hugs from sunny Cyprus x

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  3. Thank you so much Theano. Your kindness in leaving this comment is appreciated as is the compliment itself. :)

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