Which Pearl Length is Best for You?

You know you want a pearl necklace. That part is a given. But you’re still not sure what length will make the best fit for your overall style. Of course, one way to solve the issue is to purchase a pearl necklace in every available length. Another is to review the common length options to determine which meshes best with your wardrobe and flair.

Super Short and Sassy: 12 to 13 inches

Pearl Collar

Pearl collars are typically made up of three or more strands that fit snugly around the middle of the neck. These statement-making pieces are ideal for women who like to get noticed no matter what. This length was popular in the Victorian era, and it works well with boat neck, V-neck and off-the-shoulder fashions.

Short and Classy: 14 to 16 inches

Pearl Choker

Pearl chokers sport a classic length that works with everything from formal gowns to casual T-shirts and all levels in between. They also compliment nearly any neckline. The single strand choker can add a dash of class to the traditional button-down blouse you wear to the office as easily as it puts the finishing touch on your evening’s cocktail dress.

Charming Classic: 17 to 19 inches

Princess Necklace

Princess necklaces are the most common pearl necklace length, with 18 inches thought to be the classic length for a strand of pearls. Crew necklines, high necklines and low, plunging necklines all work well with this length, as do tight-fitting sweaters and turtlenecks. The princess necklace is the go-to option if you aren’t sure which necklace length is best for you.

Versatile Elegance: 26 to 36 inches

Opera Length Necklace

Opera length pearl necklaces have long been worn with formal attire only, although they have begun to pop up in more casual styles to provide an edgy vibe. The longer length allows you to wear the necklace as a single, dangling strand, doubled-up as a two-strand choker, or even knotted at your neckline or cleavage for a vintage and sexy vibe.

Long and Luxurious: 37 inches and up

Pearl Rope

Pearl rope necklaces are long, lean and ready for all kinds of action. Choose a rope necklace that features multiple clasps and you can break it down into a number of different necklace and bracelet combinations, or triple it up for a stunning, multi-strand choker. Other options include knotting the rope to mimic the flapper look, or slinging the knot over your shoulder to bring attention to a backless gown.

You really can’t go wrong with any length pearl necklace, as long as you wear it with style. And with a strand or three of pearls, that’s certainly not hard to do.