We asked Anson Gilbert, celebrity fashion stylist and style expert, for his insight into how to choose the perfect necklace for your neckline and also teamed up with fashion blogger Keiko Lynn to be our guest style editor and provide her favorite necklace picks!
1
V neckline
This classic neckline is a great way to draw focus away from broad shoulders and elongate your neck. “This makes the wearer appear taller and leaner, a strategy that celebrity stylists have used for years,” notes Gilbert. Because of these qualities of this particular neckline, it’s a good idea to look for a necklace with a strong central focus. “This means going for a chain link or other standard, classic link necklace with a pendant that hits at the center of the sternum,” he advises. “A classic dainty necklace with a charm or birthstone pendant is perfect.”
Our picks: Wear this bold blue V-neck dress (asos.com, $156) with a delicate yet eye-catching bronze and crystal pendant (forzieri.com, $188).
Our Guest Style Editor chose this Pim + Larkin necklace (Piperlime, $38). As our guest style editor, fashion blogger Keiko Lynn says, “The shape of this necklace mimics the v-neck, creating a flattering line.” Meet her here!
2
Halter neckline
Pairing a necklace with a halter neckline can be tough. “Time and time again we see celebrities and pedestrians alike, getting this pairing wrong,” says Gilbert. “If you’re wearing a halter neckline with a keyhole at the bust or spacing in the fabric, you’re better off not wearing a necklace at all. If you’re wearing a halter with full frontal coverage, channel your inner Cleopatra and opt for an ornate collar necklace,” he advises.
Our picks: Pair this pretty eyelet dress (jcrew.com, $188) with an elegant snake collar necklace (neimanmarcus.com, $115).
Our Guest Style Editor chose this cleopatra collar (Karen London, $208).
One-shoulder neckline
This is another one of the trickier necklines to pair a necklace with, but it can be done. “Because of the asymmetry of this neckline, it is smart to play with necklaces that have texture and geometric components,” Gilbert days. He suggests pairing a one shoulder neckline with a necklace of playful proportions. “What’s key is making sure the necklace is long enough to clear at least two inches below the neckline.”
Our picks: Pair this one-shoulder asymmetrical chiffon dress (Nordstrom.com, $228) with a playful beaded cluster necklace (maxandchloe.com, $150).
Our Guest Style Editor chose a simple triangle pendant (ASOS, $11).
4
Jewel neckline
Of all the necklines, this one is one of the easiest to pair necklaces with, explains Gilbert. “You can easily wear a bib necklace, a pendant necklace, a collar necklace or just about any style necklace that you’d like,” he says.
Our picks: Pair this Alice + Olivia striped jewel neck dress (neimanmarcus.com, $297) with a mod-inspired bib necklace (nordstrom.com, $245).
Our Guest Style Editor chose a coral statement piece (Bauble Bar, $28). “A jewel neckline is the perfect canvas for a statement necklace,” said Keiko.
5
Boat neckline
Since this neckline is so wide, it’s best to pair it with a longer pendant necklace. Or you can choose a collar necklace. “You can also go the route of playing up the regal factor of this neckline by choosing a collar necklace that kisses this neckline, but has some small charm or design element that hangs or dangles slightly lower than the neckline,” says Gilbert.
Our picks: Pair this lively yellow boat neck dress (splendid.com, $138) with this long Jules Smith pendant necklace (shopbop.com, $85).
Our Guest Style Editor chose a layered necklace with pearls and knots (J. Crew, $85).
Guest Style Editor:
Popular fashion blogger Keiko Lynn is helping you master summer trends for all your outdoor activities.
You can meet her here >>
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