The Right Necklace For Your Neckline

Finding the right necklace to wear with your gown can sometimes be a little daunting. Often so much energy goes into designing or choosing the perfect gown for your special occasion, that your accessories can get forgotten about. But your special ocassion deserves extra special jewellery.

Jewellery has become the focal point of wedding and formal ocassions, as designers are leaning toward simpler gowns, but teaming them with statement jewellery. Contemporary jewellery is exploding on to the scene. Don’t be afraid to express yourself through your special piece!

Here are a few tips to help you in choosing the right necklace for your neckline.

Strapless

All styles of jewellery will complement a strapless gown – however, just be aware that a strapless gown exposes a lot of skin & can call attention to your bust if you have a larger chest.

Necklace styles to consider:

• a choker in small, translucent glass beads, crystals & gems:
• an elaborate drop necklace to complement your gown;

Statement Design:

• a black onyx choker for a sleek contrast to a traditional dress.

Take into consideration the embellishment that are already on your gown & select jewellery that will work with it.

Halter & V-neck

The trick with a V-neck gown is to repeat the shape of your neckline & draw attention to your cleavage. This makes it perfect for showing off your most treasured pendant. Make sure the necklace is the optimum length – you need for it to finish about 5 centimetres (2 inches) above the “V”.

Necklace styles to consider:

• a family heirloom;
• a “Y’ drop necklaces in pearl or crystal;
• a strand of beads or pearls;
• alternatively, if you want a little sparkle, look for something special in Swarovski crystal.

Statement Design:

• add a tiara - or twine a hair vine accessory through your tresses – for that extra sparkle!

The designs of the halter neckgown does not really lend itself to a necklace. If you have chosen a halter neck look for a fantastic pair of earrings that suit the style of your occasion. If you’re able to carry it off, without feeling self-conscious, you could consider a necklace that falls down your back – the halter provides the perfect opportunity and frame for such a piece of jewellery.

Sweetheart

The neckline on a sweetheart gown is eye-catching all on its own – so be careful not to over-do your accessories – keep it simple.

Necklace styles to consider:

• a princess length necklace;
• a simple choker;
• a gold or silver chain with a delicate drop.

Statement Design:

• add a decorative clasp to your necklace – that way you are still keeping it simple, but added a little glamour.

Scoop

This neckline is another that will be complemented by a variety of necklaces.

Necklace styles to consider:

• a dramatic multi-strand necklace in pearl, gemstone or crystal;
• single or double strands;
• chokers;
• a delicate ”Y” necklace;
• a stunning pendant.

Statement Design:

• antique time-pieces – think SteamPunk – are the design element of the moment…

Off-the-Shoulder

Again, a dress which will show a lot of skin – but which will let you be as simple or dramatic as you want with your choice of necklace. Just remember…. select jewellery that complements your fabric and any embellishments on your gown.

Also, you don’t want the necklace to end too close to the neckline of your dress.

Necklace styles to consider:

• chokers can be very flattering.

Statement Design:

• an elaborate collar necklace that complements the embellishments on your gown.

Square

The square neckline really draws attention to your neck.

Necklace styles to consider:

• chokers are particularly stunning – contemplate a wide, multi-strand choker;
• a dramatic single or double strand necklace.

Statement Design:

• cameos and lockets are very in vogue this season.

Bateau

The neckline of a bateau gown is very high, with the back of the gown being either very high or very low. The height of the back of your dress will help determine the right necklace for you.

Necklace styles to consider:

• if you have a high back, consider a choker. If this necklace style doesn’t look or feel right, opt for earrings and a bracelet only.
• if you have a low back, consider a lariat or necklace that falls down your back.

Statement Design:

• try cultured freshwater pearls or zircon briolettes, that drape down your spine.