How to Style Chains
The chain is a very essential accessory piece. You can wear and style this accessory in various ways to enhance your sense of style. However, you must first start by knowing how to properly wear it. Then we will proceed to how you can style it.
So, let us get right into it.
Choose the Right Thickness of the Chain
You have a variety of chain thicknesses to choose from, such as 1.5 millimeters to five millimeters. Usually, chains with such thickness are belcher chains that are great for being subtle and having a unique design. The makeup of such chains is quite compact. We recommend that you not exceed a chain thickness of about five millimeters, as they look way better with a smaller width.
Some chains can look nice with a slightly larger width, such as the figaro chain. The figaro chain is less dense and has larger gaps.
Choose the Right Chain Style
When choosing the right chain style that matches your personality and sense of style, you must consider the material, length, and how it complements you.
The Figaro Chain
You have various styles to choose from, such as the chain figaro that is available in the form of chain wire links. You can also get it in round-wire style. Figaro chains are excellent for day-to-day use as they won’t lose their shape or shine.
The Figaro chain has an Italian origin and rocks an iconic look, which is why it is best styled with a semi-formal or old money look. This chain style can give you a very rich and swanky feel. The larger gaps between the chain create an interesting thread design around your neck.
The Rope Chain
Rope chains are also immensely popular and reflect nicely around the neck. Speaking of the neck, make sure to stick to a dedicated skincare routine as healthy skin will enhance your overall appearance. Rope chains happen to be one of the most durable and textural types of chains. Even if you opt for the thinnest chain, it will be durable.
When it comes to styling the rope chain, you can opt for casual looks as these are great with a simple outfit, such as tees and jeans. You can also layer rope chains with other chains of various thicknesses and lengths. If you have a dressier occasion coming up, you can match your rope chain with a turtleneck, and it will look great.
A rope chain exhibits simplicity and elegance. Avoiding too thick chains is the key, as it can take away from your outfit.
Choose the Right Length
We have discussed thickness earlier, now the question is, what about the length? Typically, the length for chains ranges from 16 inches to 28 inches; however, you can go shorter or longer. The length you should wear depends on the number of chains you are wearing.
We advise you to wear only one chain that is no longer than 28 inches if you are layering, as anything longer can encroach upon the top in an unappealing fashion.
Tips for Styling Chains of Different Sizes
If you are wearing anything like a dress shirt, we would suggest going for eighteen inches. If you wear a dress shirt and wear anything longer than eighteen inches, it can get concealed by the buttoned-up part of the dress shirt. Also, make sure to never put the chain over the dress shirt or the collar itself.
The best time to wear longer chains is when you have a shorter chain complementing them. This way, you can use a longer chain in contrast with the shorter chain and fill the gap in between. You want both chains at different lengths and not too close to each other.
We recommend that you stick to the same material for both chains. However, there is nothing wrong with playing with designs. This means that you should pair gold with gold and silver with silver.
If you opt for the double-chain look, it goes nicely with street style. However, the double-chain style also goes nicely with slack, loose, button-down shirts.
How to Wear Pendants on the Chain
Wearing pendants on your chain can be a make-or-break. You might have the length, the thickness, the material, and the parings just right. However, because of the pendant, it can throw it all off. With that said, we recommend that you avoid pendants that are too loud and flashy. Subtlety is key here. By keeping the pendant small, you can make the person looking at it enquire about what the pendant is about and its potential significance.
If you opt for pendants, you must try to stick to one pendant at a time, as you don’t want too many of them. Too many pendants can make you look tacky. Wear the pendant on either the longer or shorter chain, although it is traditionally worn on the longer chain.
If you want to have more than one pendant, you can opt for a larger one and a smaller one.