Types of Women’s Necklaces: Styles, Meanings, and How to Wear Them

Introduction

When it comes to jewelry, necklaces have always held a special place in women’s wardrobes. They are more than just decorative accessories, they carry stories, highlight personal style, and can even symbolize love, faith, or individuality. Necklaces have long served as both status symbols and personal talismans across cultures and eras (Bellard Atelier, 2024). From the timeless elegance of pearls to the bold drama of statement pieces, the different types of women’s necklaces make it possible for every person to express herself in unique ways.

Today’s fashion landscape offers countless choices, from choker necklaces for women that hug the neckline to long, flowing chains that layer beautifully for a modern aesthetic. A well-chosen necklace can instantly elevate an outfit, taking it from simple to sophisticated. It can also reflect emotion, whether it’s a meaningful pendant necklace stylegifted by a loved one or a delicate piece chosen to mark a personal milestone.

Understanding the wide variety of necklaces available, and how to wear them, helps in selecting pieces that are not only fashionable but also practical and personal. Whether someone is drawn to minimalist chains, bold bibs, or the playful freedom of the layered necklaces trend, each choice adds a new dimension to self-expression. Even unique necklace designs, such as asymmetrical chains or body chains, allow women to explore styles that step outside tradition.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular necklace types, their distinctive features, the symbolism behind them, and how to choose the right necklace for different occasions and outfits. With this knowledge, you’ll feel confident in selecting the perfect piece to highlight your neckline, complement your wardrobe, and express your personal story.

Distinguishing Features of Different Necklace Types

Choker Necklaces

Among the most iconic styles, choker necklaces for women are designed to sit snugly around the neck, usually measuring 14 to 16 inches in length. Their close fit creates a flattering frame for the neckline, making them ideal for strapless dresses, off-the-shoulder tops, and formal gowns.

Chokers range from minimal leather bands to delicate chains set with pearls, gemstones, or charms. Their versatility means they can lean toward understated elegance or bold fashion-forward statements. Many women turn to chokers for both everyday styling and evening events, as the design draws the eye naturally to the face and collarbones.

What makes this necklace type particularly appealing is its adaptability. Indeed, choker necklaces have made a remarkable fashion comeback thanks to their timeless versatility across both casual and elevated styles (Growing Jewelry, 2025). Whether styled with casual denim and a T-shirt or paired with an evening gown, chokers remain a jewelry staple that transcends trends.

Pendant Necklaces

The pendant necklace style is characterized by a single charm, locket, or gemstone that hangs gracefully from a chain. Pendant necklaces come in a wide range of lengths, allowing them to rest at the collarbone, mid-chest, or lower.

Their beauty lies in their personalizable nature. Pendants can be deeply meaningful, initials, birthstones, religious symbols, or lockets with photographs, or they can simply serve as chic fashion statements. Women often choose pendant necklaces as everyday pieces because they are lightweight, elegant, and versatile across outfits.

A longer pendant necklace can elongate the torso and works beautifully with V-neck or scoop necklines. Shorter chains, on the other hand, create balance when worn with high-neck tops or layered over dresses. The timeless appeal of pendant necklaces ensures they never go out of style. Pendants originated as amulets and talismans in the Stone Age, used for protection and identity, long before becoming purely ornamental (Britannica, n.d.).

Bib Necklaces

For those who prefer bold jewelry, bib necklaces are the ultimate statement piece. Designed with multiple layers of beads, metals, or crystals, these necklaces cover a portion of the chest like a bib, instantly making them the centerpiece of any outfit.

Bib necklaces are best paired with simple clothing, such as solid-colored tops or strapless dresses, so the intricate details can shine. They are often chosen for formal occasions, parties, or special events when a dramatic effect is desired.

While they are not as versatile for everyday wear as chokers or pendants, bib necklaces are unmatched in their ability to transform a simple outfit into a striking fashion look. They embody confidence and artistry, allowing the wearer to express a bolder side of her style.

Collar Necklaces

Closely related to chokers, collar necklaces sit slightly higher on the neck, often at the collarbone. Unlike chokers, they usually measure around 12 to 13 inches and often consist of solid or semi-rigid bands.

Collar necklaces can be crafted from metals, pearls, or leather and may feature intricate embellishments. They are perfect for highlighting the collarbone and work beautifully with off-the-shoulder tops, boat necklines, or strapless dresses.

Their structured form gives them a refined, elegant look, making them a staple in more formal wardrobes. A collar necklace can act as both a standalone statement piece or part of the layered necklaces trend when paired with longer chains for a mix of sophistication and playfulness.

Lariat Necklaces

Distinctive and versatile, lariat necklaces are long, rope-like chains without a traditional clasp. Instead, they loop, knot, or tie to create unique draping effects. This style allows wearers to adjust the length and look, giving them a sense of creative freedom.

Lariat necklaces complement a wide range of outfits, from office attire to evening wear. They also align perfectly with the layered necklaces trend, as they can be paired with shorter chokers or pendants to add depth and movement.

Their bohemian, free-spirited aesthetic makes them a favorite among women who enjoy exploring more unconventional or unique necklace designs. Whether styled simply or with multiple layers, lariats always add a touch of effortless sophistication.

How to Choose the Right Necklace for Different Necklines

Pairing the right necklace with the right neckline can completely change the look of an outfit. The goal is to create harmony between the jewelry and clothing, ensuring neither overpowers the other. By understanding how different types of women’s necklaces interact with specific styles of tops and dresses, it becomes easier to achieve balance, elegance, and impact.

V-Necklines

V-neck tops and dresses naturally draw the eye downward, creating a frame for the chest. To complement this shape, choose necklaces that follow the same line. A long pendant necklace style or a delicate lariat works beautifully with V-necks because they mirror the “V” shape, elongating the torso and adding a slimming effect. If layering, pair a short choker with a mid-length pendant for extra depth without distracting from the neckline.

Scoop Necklines

Scoop necklines are wide and rounded, leaving plenty of open space for a necklace to fill. A bold bib necklace or a richly embellished collar necklace provides balance by occupying that space, making the look feel intentional and complete. Simpler chains can also work, but scoop necklines are where dramatic statement pieces truly shine. Women often use scoop neck outfits as an opportunity to showcase unique necklace designs that emphasize creativity and flair.

Strapless

Strapless dresses and tops leave the collarbones fully exposed, which makes them the perfect canvas for shorter necklaces. Choker necklaces for women and structured collars are ideal here, as they highlight the neckline and create a sense of proportion. For a more delicate effect, a layered combination of a choker and a subtle pendant can add softness while still framing the shoulders beautifully.

Boat Necklines

Boat necklines stretch wide across the shoulders, which can sometimes shorten the appearance of the neck. Longer chains help to offset this effect by drawing the eye downward. Lariats or long multi-strand chains styled as part of the layered necklaces trend are excellent options, adding length, balance, and a touch of elegance.

Turtlenecks

Turtlenecks cover the neckline completely, creating an opportunity for necklaces to stand out against fabric. Longer pendant necklaces work particularly well, breaking up the expanse of material with a central focal point. For a modern twist, women often combine a long pendant with shorter layers, incorporating different textures and unique necklace designs to make the look dynamic.

The Symbolism Behind Different Types of Necklaces

For centuries, necklaces have held more than just decorative value. Across cultures, they have been worn to express love, faith, luck, and identity. Even today, many types of women’s necklaces carry deep symbolic meaning that makes them far more than fashion accessories.

Birthstone Necklaces

A pendant necklace style featuring a birthstone is one of the most personal jewelry choices a woman can wear. Each gemstone is tied to a specific month and is believed to hold certain qualities, for example, garnet for protection, sapphire for wisdom, or amethyst for peace. Wearing a birthstone is often seen as a way of carrying good fortune or channeling those qualities into daily life. Because they are meaningful and versatile, birthstone pendants are also popular gifts that combine beauty with sentiment. Historically, pendants, especially those with gemstones, were believed to possess protective and spiritual qualities tied to personal identity (Monica Rich Kosann, 2.7 years ago).

Religious Symbols

From crosses and crucifixes to Stars of David or Om pendants, religious necklaces act as both spiritual statements and personal reminders of faith. These necklaces often take the form of small pendants on delicate chains, though some women prefer bolder designs that reflect their devotion. Among the many types of women’s necklaces, these stand out as deeply personal pieces that link fashion to values and belief systems.

Lockets

Few pieces of jewelry feel as nostalgic as a locket. Designed to open and hold photographs or mementos, lockets symbolize closeness and memory. They are often passed down through generations, making them treasures of family history. A locket can be worn as part of the layered necklaces trend or as a standalone pendant necklace style, always carrying with it the sense of intimacy and connection.

Infinity Necklaces

Infinity necklaces, shaped with the mathematical infinity symbol, are popular in modern jewelry for their clean design and powerful meaning. They represent eternal love, friendship, and unbreakable bonds, making them a go-to gift between couples, best friends, or family members. Their universal appeal has secured them a place in both everyday fashion and symbolic jewelry collections.

Other Unique Symbols

Some women prefer to embrace unique necklace designs that incorporate symbols outside the traditional. Hearts, keys, stars, and feathers all carry different associations, from love and mystery to hope and freedom. Choosing a necklace with a symbolic charm is a way of expressing individuality while also keeping personal values close.

Unique and Unconventional Necklace Styles for Women

While classic styles like chokers and pendants remain timeless, fashion also celebrates the unexpected. For those who enjoy standing out, unique necklace designs offer fresh, contemporary ways to express individuality. These pieces often play with shape, proportion, or layering, and they’re ideal for women who want jewelry that feels as original as their personality.

Body Chains

Body chains blur the line between necklace and accessory, draping across the shoulders, chest, or even around the waist. Worn over swimsuits, dresses, or body-hugging outfits, they create a striking effect that’s both modern and bold. This style fits perfectly into festival fashion and beachwear, but it can also add edge to evening attire. Among the more daring types of women’s necklaces, body chains symbolize confidence and creativity.

Tassel Necklaces

Playful yet elegant, tassel necklaces feature strands of beads, chains, or fabric gathered into decorative tassels. They add a sense of movement and texture, making them a lively addition to any outfit. A tasseled pendant necklace style can bring drama to a simple blouse or inject personality into a formal dress. These necklaces are especially popular in bohemian-inspired wardrobes, where flow and detail play an important role.

Asymmetrical Necklaces

Unlike traditional symmetrical designs, asymmetrical necklaces embrace imbalance as a statement of artistry. They may feature uneven lengths, mismatched charms, or one-sided embellishments. This style is perfect for women who gravitate toward unique necklace designs that challenge convention. When paired with minimalist outfits, asymmetrical necklaces become wearable art, elevating the entire look.

Modern Layering Pieces

Some unconventional necklaces are designed specifically for layering. Delicate chains with adjustable lengths or bold pieces meant to be stacked align with the layered necklaces trend that dominates today’s fashion. These versatile designs allow women to combine classic chokers, pendants, or lariats in fresh new ways, ensuring that no two layered looks are ever exactly the same.

How to Incorporate Multiple Necklace Styles for a Layered Look

One of the most exciting jewelry trends today is layering. Instead of wearing a single necklace, women are combining different styles and lengths to create unique, personalized arrangements. The layered necklaces trend allows for creativity and flexibility, offering countless ways to highlight individuality while staying fashion-forward.

Start with a Base Piece

Every layered look begins with a foundation. A short, simple chain or choker necklace for women works perfectly as a base because it sits close to the neck and doesn’t compete with longer pieces. Starting small allows the rest of the look to build naturally.

Mix Lengths and Styles

The key to layering is variety. Combine short chokers, mid-length pendants, and long lariats to achieve a cascading effect. For example, pairing a dainty pendant necklace style with a statement lariat creates visual balance while keeping the arrangement playful and modern. Mixing different types also ensures the look doesn’t feel flat or repetitive.

Play with Texture and Material

Contrast is essential for interest. Try combining chains of different thicknesses or mixing materials such as gold, silver, pearls, and beads. Even incorporating unique necklace designs, like asymmetrical or tassel necklaces, adds depth and dimension. This interplay of textures keeps the look dynamic without overwhelming the outfit.

Balance Bold and Delicate Pieces

Too many statement pieces at once can feel heavy. To avoid this, balance bold bib or collar necklaces with fine chains or minimalist pendants. By mixing strong and subtle designs, the finished look appears stylish rather than cluttered.

Keep It Personal

The best layered styles include elements of personal significance. A birthstone pendant, infinity charm, or locket can be worked seamlessly into layers, ensuring the look is not only fashionable but also meaningful. This is where the layered necklaces trend becomes more than just fashion, it becomes self-expression.

Conclusion

From timeless chokers to dramatic bib pieces, the many types of women’s necklaces offer something for every mood, occasion, and outfit. Each necklace style carries its own personality: the elegance of a pendant necklace style, the daring presence of a bib, the modern edge of a lariat, or the nostalgic charm of a locket. Whether chosen for fashion, symbolism, or sentiment, necklaces allow women to express themselves in ways that go far beyond ornamentation.

Today’s jewelry trends encourage creativity and individuality. The popularity of the layered necklaces trend shows that styling isn’t about following rigid rules but about experimenting, mixing, and discovering combinations that feel authentic. Even bold, unique necklace designs like asymmetrical or body chains are no longer reserved for runway fashion, they’ve become everyday options for women who want jewelry that reflects their confidence and originality.

Ultimately, choosing necklaces is about finding pieces that resonate with both outfit and personality. Some days call for understated simplicity with a single chain, while others invite playful combinations of chokers, pendants, and lariats. By understanding the symbolism, the design variations, and how each necklace interacts with different necklines, women can curate a jewelry collection that feels versatile and meaningful.

In the end, necklaces remain more than just accessories, they are storytellers, confidence-boosters, and timeless companions. Necklaces have consistently played roles in religious, ceremonial, and social identity contexts—elevating them beyond mere decoration (Encyclopaedia Britannica; Wikipedia necklace entry, 2025). Whether worn for elegance, spirituality, or self-expression, the right necklace has the power to transform not just a look but the way a woman feels.

FAQs – Types of Women’s Necklaces

References

Bellard Atelier. (2024). The history and symbolism of necklaces: From ancient times to modern fashion. Bellard Atelier. https://bellardatelier.com/the-history-and-symbolism-of-necklaces-from-ancient-times-to-modern-fashion/

Britannica. (n.d.). Pendant. In Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://www.britannica.com/art/pendant-jewelry

Growing Jewelry. (2025). Are choker necklaces still in style: A 2023 trend check? Growing Jewelry. https://growingjewelry.com/are-choker-necklaces-in-style/

Monica Rich Kosann. (n.d.). History of pendants & pendant necklaces. Monica Rich Kosann. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://www.monicarichkosann.com/blogs/journal/history-pendent-necklaces

Wikipedia. (2025). Necklace. In Wikipedia. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necklace