Layering necklaces can be a fun way to change up the look and feel of your pieces and keep your jewelry exciting and fresh. Over time, as you add necklaces to your collection, if you consider these basics then you will have a selection of necklaces that can be worn individually or layered easily in various combinations from bold to subtle. 

5 Things to consider when layering necklaces.

CHAIN LENGTH
Each of us have different body types so one of the first things to do when creating a layered necklace set is to identify a necklace length that is the most flattering for you. Test a few lengths and see which length feels comfortable, this is your anchor length and you will build your stack based on this foundational length.

If a 18" necklace is your anchor necklace, build your initial stack with a 16" necklace and/or a longer 20" piece. An easy rule of thumb is to keep each layer 2" apart, but it can be fun to play with larger increments for a more dramatic look.

Evenly spacing your layers is a good rule of thumb regardless of style.

CHAIN WEIGHT
When layering necklaces you want to consider the weight of each chain. When stacking necklaces you want to ensure you have a variety of complementary but different weights. Each one should be able to stand on its own but pair well with others in the collection. Keep in mind, if they are too similar they will blend, if the proportions are too dramatic you lose cohesion.

Vary each layer by choosing different weights of chains.

CHAIN STYLE

There are so many chain styles to choose from from paperclip, to ball, to cable. A rule of thumb is to not repeat a chain style in your stack. Choosing complementary styles makes for a more dynamic layer of necklaces and they will play off of each other. Echoing different shapes is one way to choose your chain styles. Don't be afraid to mix metals in your necklace layers, for instance gold and oxidized silver is a dramatic and underutilized combination.

There are so many styles of chains, don't be afraid to mix and match.

FOCAL POINT

When layering, you need to consider your focal point. Whether a small pendant or more dramatic statement necklace, consider what your eye will see first and build your stack to support that focal point. 

When layering three or more necklaces, your focal point should be the center necklace with one chain above and one below. Or consider having focal points at the top and bottom of the necklace with a neutral chain in the center – just remember to distinguish focal points through either the size or color of the pendants.

Your focal point can be a small pendant or larger statement piece. 

COLOR
Adding a pop of color in your stack is a great way to create a focal point. In JacQueline's collection, you can choose a colored pendant or even a colored chain to integrate into your layers. In general, for a minimal look, keep the color on the shorter chain and closest to your face.

Feel free to layer colors, just ensure they relate in some way to each other so the overall effect is not chaotic. One tip is to consider an overall color palette for your necklace layers and choose whether your colors will be complementary for a bolder look or tonal for a more subtle effect.

 Whether your jewelry is subtle or bold, a pop of color provides a focal point.

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Layering necklaces is not hard when you understand the basics.

1.   FIND YOUR ANCHOR LENGTH
2.   CHOOSE A FOCAL PIECE OR TWO 
3.   LAYER WITH COLOR, WEIGHT & TEXTURE 
4.   PLAY WITH YOUR PERSONALITY
5.   BUILD A COLLECTION OVER TIME
6.   ASK FOR HELP (JacQueline can help build your layers)

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Here are a few additional bold, layered necklace combinations that inspired us. Whether a few layers or many, there are so many ways to mix and match!