14 vs. 16 Inch Necklace | Which Size Will Complement Your Face or Neck Best?

So, you’ve decided to get yourself a pretty necklace, but next comes the big question; is it going to be a 14 vs. 16-inch necklace? Will a short necklace complement the shape of your face, or will a longer chain define your neckline? Sighs. We know it’s a tough decision to make.

If you’re stuck between choosing a 14 vs. 16-inch necklace, you’re in the right spot. In this post, we’ll help you choose between the different necklace lengths by elaborating on the various factors to consider and how they can help you get a statement necklace. So, let’s get into it.

Choosing the Right Necklace Length for Women


As a woman, the length of the necklace you wear can make all the difference to your outfit. If a chain necklace doesn’t work with your outfit, it can very easily cheapen your outfit, even if you’re dressed in a million-dollar outfit. So, yes, the jewelry industry will tell you that the perfect necklace length is that important!

It’s essential to choose a type of chain for necklaces that’ll flatter both your outfit and your entire body; this is why you should consider these factors when selecting the perfect necklace length for you:

Neck Size

One of the first factors to consider when choosing between 14 and 16 inches is the size of your neck. You should try measuring your neck before picking a necklace, especially if you’re looking to get a choker.

An easy way to get the size of your neck is to wrap a soft measuring tape on your neck and add two inches to the estimated neck measurement you get. That way, you can rest assured that you’ll get the right clasped length that won’t cause you any discomfort.

If you’re aiming for an extended length, you should add four inches to your neck measurement. However, 14-inch necklaces work best for people with long necks, while a 16-inch one will flatter someone with a short neck. On the other hand, if you are not as concerned with appearance as you are with your tradition and heritage, you may not be into glamour but attracted to more traditional Native American necklaces.

a woman in red dress smiling

Height

Typically, this determines the shape of your body and the type of necklace that’ll complement your figure. For example, if you’ve got a tall frame, you can wear long necklaces. However, if you’re below 5’4″, it might be best to opt for a shorter necklace or a round necklace. Still, both necklace lengths will work since they aren’t as long as Princess or Matinee length necklaces.

Body Type

Yes, your body type is another focal point to consider when choosing the perfect chain length. Imagine wearing a necklace that stops right in the middle of your bust, which might get everyone to rest their gaze on that exact spot.

If this is unintentional, you’d most likely find it uncomfortable. This is why it’s vital to ensure your necklace falls perfectly and flatters your entire body. For example, if you’re a petite woman, you should opt for a long necklace or long layered necklace, as these types of necklaces work well with your body type.

However, full-figured women should avoid longer necklaces that rest below the bust. Instead, they should opt for necklaces that rest above it; a 14 or 16 inch will work just fine.


Wardrobe

Different outfits work with different lengths of necklaces, so it’s rare to find a necklace length that works for every outfit in your wardrobe. Typically, long necklace lengths fall a few inches below the collarbone and work well with clothes that have high or plunging necklines, while shorter necklaces flatter outfits with low necklines.

Therefore, you need to know the basics of pairing the perfect necklace length with your outfit or evening wear before deciding if you want a 14 or 16-inch chain. You also want to ensure that your necklaces hang properly and express your style.

prettyyoung woman wearing a necklace

Face Shape

When choosing the right necklace length for most women, one of the least considered factors is the face shape. However, like your body type, the shape of your face is also critical to your necklace length choice. You want a necklace that’ll highlight your best facial features and make you look more elegant.

With that being said, here are the best chain lengths for the most common face shapes:

  • Round: If you have a round face, you should avoid chokers or short necklaces, as they make round faces look rounder. As such, the 14 or 16-inch necklace might not be the best accessory choice for you, and you should opt for longer lengths.
  • Oval: Oval-shaped faces work well with necklaces of any length or shape.
  • Long: If you have a long-shape face, you want accessories that soften the sharp features of your face. It’d be best to choose a short necklace, as it can make your face seem rounder and softer. A shorter necklace also makes your face appear shorter, so 14 or 16-inch necklaces are great options.
  • Heart: Short necklaces (like 14 or 16 inches) flatter heart-shaped faces and give them a fuller and more balanced look.

Knowing which necklace length(s) will flatter your face shape is an essential factor that can save you a lot of hassle and spice up your everyday looks. On a similar note, knowing which materials are most fitting to express your personality, or what to wear for different occasions is equally important, too (see diamond necklaces reviews).

Choosing the Right Necklace Length for Men


Like women, men also have to consider specific factors when choosing the ideal necklace length. While men typically wear longer necklaces, they still need to know what to look for, especially if they choose between 14 vs. 16-inch or 16 vs. 18-inch necklaces. So, before you join the necklace fad, consider these factors:

Neck Size

Before choosing a necklace, you need to know the size of your neck. A great way to figure out your neck measurements is to use the size of your shirt’s collar. Nonetheless, this method may not work for every man, so if you can, get the proper measurement of your neck using a soft measuring tape.

Body Type 

If you are slim, then longer chain-style necklaces will fit best, but if you’re bigger, then you should wear shorter necklaces. Typically, a 16-inch necklace is one of the standard necklace lengths and gives you a choker-like effect.

Style

As much as you want to get a suitable necklace length, you also want a necklace that fits your style. Men’s necklaces typically come in various types, from collar necklace styles to military-themed choker tags. The most important thing is to choose a chain that best expresses your personal style.

a man by the opened suitcase full of jewelry

What Is the Best Necklace Length?

Generally, there are different standard necklace lengths: four for men and five for women. There are several necklace lengths to choose from. Each comes with a different name, including a bib necklace, collar necklace, rope necklace, matinee necklace, princess necklace, opera-length necklace, and choker necklace.

However, selecting the most common necklace lengths is typically between 14 vs. 16-inch necklaces. Still, you can never determine the right necklace length for you based on what length works for a friend or someone you know.

Therefore, it’d be best if you did your research to find out. For example, you can start by looking at the factors discussed above and check if the length of the necklace you want to choose ticks all the right boxes for you.

a smiling girl with many necklaces around her neck

Which Necklace Length Is Most Flattering?

While both the 14 and 16 inches standard choker length necklace are a great choice, the 16-inch16-inch necklace seems to be the most flattering length to consider.

On the one hand, a 14 inches necklace wraps closely around the neck, which might be a problem for most adult men and women. Also, it’s best worn with open-neck clothing, such as V-necks, scoop necks, boat necks, and off-the-shoulder styles. So, this can make your outfit choices a bit limited.

On the other hand, the 16 inches necklace, also known as the choker necklace, ends at the base of the neck and can be worn with almost every kind of clothing. Since the 16-inch necklace isn’t as tight as the 14 inches one and rests on the clavicle for women, it’s the most common length and the perfect necklace chain for men and women.

a woman puttin on a lipstick in front of the mirror

What Does a 14 Inch Necklace Look Like?

14 Inch Necklace

A 14-inch necklace is a short piece of jewelry that fits snugly around the neck like a choker. It measures approximately 35.5 cm and is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and delicate look.

The necklace is typically made with a thin chain and features a small charm or pendant. The size of the necklace makes it perfect for layering with longer pieces or wearing alone to draw attention to the neckline.

The 14 inch necklace is a classic and timeless accessory that can be worn with any outfit, making it a versatile addition to any jewelry collection.

What Does a 16 Inch Necklace Look Like?

While a 16-inch necklace is a beautiful piece of jewelry that is designed to accentuate the neckline. It measures approximately 40.6 cm, and this type of necklace typically falls perfectly around the base of the neck, creating a collar-like effect that adds an elegant touch to any outfit.

The length of the necklace is ideal for showcasing a small pendant or charm, and it can also be layered with other necklaces for a trendy look.

The 16-inch necklace is a versatile accessory that can be worn with both formal and casual attire, making it a must-have in any jewelry collection. Its simple yet sophisticated design makes it a timeless piece that can be enjoyed for years to come.

16 Inch Necklace

FAQs – 14 vs 16 inch Necklace

How to measure necklace length?

Measuring the length of your necklace is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Lay the necklace flat on a surface, ensuring it forms a straight line.
2. Using a ruler or tape measure, measure from one end of the clasp to the other.
3. With the clasp securely fastened, place the necklace flat on the surface.
4. Measure from one end to the other, then double the measurement to determine the necklace’s full length.

With these simple steps, you can accurately measure the length of your necklace, helping you choose the perfect piece to complement your style.

What is the average necklace size for a woman?

The most common women’s necklace chain length is 18 inches. This size is designed to fit the average-sized woman comfortably. However, it’s essential to consider your unique body proportions and personal preferences when choosing the right necklace length.

What is the average necklace length?

The average necklace length typically ranges from 16 to 30 inches, with standard sizes like 16″, 18″, 20″, 22″, 24″, and 30″ being the most commonly worn lengths, suitable for various occasions.

How far down does a 16-inch necklace go?

If you are wondering how long is 16 inches necklace? A 16 inches necklace when worn hits just above the collarbone and fits snugly like a choker. This length is particularly well-suited for petite frames, and it’s one of the most commonly preferred necklace lengths among women.

What does a 14 inch necklace look like?

If you’re curious about what a 14-inch necklace looks like? Typically, necklaces of this length are shorter and designed to rest snugly around the neck, akin to a chic choker. This makes the 14-inch chain a stylish choice for those looking to make a bold statement with their jewelry.

Is 14 inches short for a necklace?

No, not at all! In fact, 14-inch necklaces are a trendy and stylish choice. These shorter chains rest around the neck like chokers, adding a bold statement to your outfit. Moreover, 14-inch necklaces pair wonderfully with other chain lengths, as they won’t get tangled at the base of your neck.

Final Thoughts

While choosing between the 14 vs. 16-inch necklace might not be the easiest of tasks, it’s still, ultimately, your personal decision. If you decide on one necklace over another, your body shape, your face shape, and your neck’s size don’t matter, even if the length isn’t said to flatter you.

Nonetheless, following the industry-standard lengths is best to quickly determine the correct chain length as an 18-inch or 20-inch necklace may fit you better. Both 18 and 20-inch necklaces look flattering on most people, but if you’re buying the necklace as a gift, the 18-inch single pearl necklace would probably be your safest bet as they are simple but elegant.

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