Need a gift in a hurry?  Explore our new Ready to Ship section for immediate delivery.

Jewelry Layering 101 for Style, Statement, and Giftlist

Learn the Art and Craft of Layering your Necklaces using Personalization, Length and Metal Compliments

Layering on the Charm

Layered necklaces are the jewelry trend we can’t get enough of. With different metals and the different warmth and hue they bring, you start from a place of huge possibilities. Brash and showing silver or white gold for midday? Warm rose gold for evenings? And then you have necklace length to consider and how to drape different textures that accent your face and neck. From the international runways to the stars of Instagram, everyone’s wearing their favorite chains and pendants in artful stacks, and making it look effortless. Here’s how to create your own, unique take on the look — with personalized necklaces taking center stage.

Choose Different Chain Lengths

Let's start with length. The "hang" of your necklace decides how your face is framed. The secret to layering success is simple: cascade down with different lengths of your necklaces. This will give each of your pieces their own space to shine, instead of making them fight with each other for attention. We want to make it easy for you to layer your favorite pieces together and avoid the tangling of chains (we can all relate!). Choose between a 16”, 18” or 20” chain length and find something that best suits your neckline. Go ahead and see how easy it is! Take this pave necklace, change the metal, the words, and the chain length! And remember, all of our pieces come with a 1” shortening ring so you can switch up your look with different lengths everyday!

The Rule of Three

If you’re a layering newbie looking to get started (or simply on the hunt for some new neck-party inspo), here are three easy ways to get the look.

  • For your first, shortest tier, try something dainty like an understated letter chain necklace.

  • The middle layer is where a personalized piece can really take the spotlight. We love adding a name necklace to let your personality shine (go ahead! change the letters, the metal, and the chain length!); or write it in lights with our pavé option. Alternatively, choose a pavé necklace featuring your birthstone, or take the opportunity to commemorate any changes in your life — like with a mom necklace

  • Finally, your longest layer should draw the eye downwards. A necklace with a drop, like the Drop Me a Kiss Necklace, will have an elongating effect; or take it all the way with our beatifully lengthy She’s a Dreamer styles available in maxi lengths. 

Of course, there are no actual rules when it comes to self-expression — so if a fourth, or even a fifth, necklace wants to join the party then go ahead and let them in. And a two-necklace pairing can work great too; it’s all about finding the combination that makes you feel beautiful.

Chain + Charm = Your Layering Hero

Ring the changes with A Simple Chain. Available in five different lengths, it makes a beautiful extra layer on its own, but feel free to personalize it by adding a charm or two. Don’t be afraid to pile them on: multiple charms will add weight to a mid-length necklace; or they’ll make a showstopping finish to your longest chain.

Inspired to get creative? Whether it’s a discreet initial necklace at the heart of your look, or a twinkling pendant bearing your name, a personalized necklace will make your own layering combo truly individual.