Which Jewellery for Which Neckline

The neckline of your dress decides where your jewellery should go. Here is what to wear with every style, from strapless to high neck.

The right jewellery can make a simple dress look expensive, and the wrong piece can crowd even the most beautiful neckline. The rule is simple: follow the shape of the neckline, and choose either a necklace or statement earrings as your focus, not both.

Strapless, sweetheart and off-shoulder

An open neckline leaves plenty of space. A collar or choker necklace sits beautifully on the collarbones, or go necklace-free with dramatic drop earrings. With a sweetheart neckline, a pendant that echoes the curved shape is pretty, as long as it sits above the neckline.

An off-shoulder neckline frames the collarbones, which suits a delicate choker or short pendant. Alternatively, pair it with chandelier earrings and a bare neck.

V-neck

A pendant or Y-necklace that follows the V is the most flattering choice; it should end a few centimetres above the point of the neckline. Small studs or fine hoops complete the look.

Halter and one-shoulder

The halter frames the shoulders and neck, so skip necklaces altogether. Choose statement earrings and perhaps a cuff or bracelet.

A one-shoulder neckline deserves balance: wear a single statement earring on the bare side or a matching pair of drops, and skip the necklace. A bracelet on the bare arm looks elegant.

High neck and long sleeves

A necklace would disappear or clutter the fabric. Focus on earrings: drops, hoops or pearls. With long sleeves, a ring or a bracelet worn over the cuff is enough. This is especially useful for modest dresses, and our modest dress styling guide has more ideas.

Gold, silver or pearls?

Gold: warm and rich; lovely with red, emerald, black and cream.
Silver and crystals: cool and modern; great with blue, lilac, grey and black.
Pearls: refined and timeless, especially with satin and high necklines.

Avoid mixing metals at formal events unless the pieces are designed to be worn together.

Match hair to jewellery

Statement earrings look best with hair up or tucked behind the ears. With a necklace focus, loose waves or a low bun work well. See our hairstyles by neckline guide.