Necklaces have a special way of turning an ordinary outfit into something extraordinary. Whether you're dressing up for a night out or simply adding flair to your daily look, the right necklace can make all the difference. But how do you know which necklace will work best with your outfit? In this guide, we'll break down the different types of necklaces and how to choose the perfect one for every occasion. Keep reading to discover the secret to flawless accessorizing!
Types of Necklaces By Style:
1. Choker Necklaces
Chokers are short, close-fitting necklaces that sit high on your neck. Often made from velvet, metal, or beads, they add an edgy and modern vibe to any outfit. Chokers are perfect for evening events, parties, or occasions where you want to make a bold statement.
- Best for: Off-the-shoulder tops, strapless dresses, and deep necklines. Chokers draw attention to your neckline, making them a great choice when you want your collarbones or shoulders to be the center of attention.
- How to Style: Chokers are incredibly versatile and work well with both traditional and modern Pakistani outfits. For ethnic wear like sarees or lehngas, opt for chokers that have intricate details, like kundan, polki, or pearl embellishments. For a modern touch, pair a minimalist metal choker with a sharara suit or anarkali.
- When to Wear: Perfect for weddings, engagements, or formal events. You can also wear sleek, simple chokers for a mehndi ceremony or dholki.
2. Pendant Necklaces
A pendant necklace is a simple chain with a single decorative charm or stone hanging from it. These are versatile and can range from minimalistic to eye-catching depending on the size of the pendant. You can find pendants with gems, symbols, or personalized elements like initials.
- Best for: Casual wear, V-neck tops, turtlenecks, and even layered looks. Pendant necklaces are great for daily wear and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
- How to Style: A pendant necklace pairs beautifully with shalwar kameez or kurta outfits, especially when the neckline is relatively simple. Opt for traditional pendants like gemstones, meenakari work, or calligraphy pendants (e.g., Allah or Quranic verses) for an elegant touch. For a more casual look, a modern geometric or heart-shaped pendant works well with jeans and kurti combinations.
- When to Wear: This type of necklace is ideal for daily wear, family gatherings, or even at the office. You can go for gold or silver tones for a subtle but elegant look.
3. Bib Necklaces
Bib necklaces cover a large portion of your chest and resemble the shape of a bib. They often feature layers of stones, beads, or crystals, creating a dramatic effect. These necklaces are perfect for making a grand statement and turning heads at any event.
- Best for: High-neck or scoop-neck dresses, evening gowns, and solid-colored outfits. Bib necklaces provide a decorative element that can replace a complex outfit design.
- How to Style: Bib necklaces are bold statement pieces that work best with simpler outfits, such as a monochrome saree, plain long kameez, or a lehnga with minimal embroidery. Since they cover a large part of the neck, opt for a v-neck or wide scoop neck outfit for balance. Bib necklaces with mirror work or colorful gemstones can add a festive vibe.
- When to Wear: Best suited for wedding receptions, formal dinners, or festive events like Eid or Diwali.
4. Collar Necklaces
Collar necklaces sit snugly around the middle of your neck, typically shorter than chokers. These pieces can be simple bands of metal or elaborate pieces of jewelry with stones or gems. They're an excellent choice when you want to accessorize with elegance without overwhelming your look.
- Best for: High-collared shirts, boat neck tops, and evening dresses. Collar necklaces add a sophisticated touch to formal or business attire.
- How to Style: Collar necklaces sit around the neck and work well with high-neck or boat neck Pakistani outfits. For traditional lehngas, ghararas, or anarkalis, choose a kundan or jadau collar necklace to add royal elegance. For casual wear, a sleek metal collar necklace can enhance a sleeveless kameez or modern saree blouse.
- When to Wear: Ideal for formal events, weddings, or traditional gatherings like milad or nisbat ceremonies.
5. Lariat / Mala Necklaces
Lariat necklaces, also known as mala necklaces, are long and can be worn in several ways, such as looped or tied in a knot. They have no clasp and offer a versatile way to style your outfits. Because of their length, they can elongate your torso and give your outfit an effortlessly chic vibe.
- Best for: Low-cut tops, plunging necklines, or even as an accessory with backless outfits. Lariat necklaces are ideal when you want a relaxed yet fashionable look.
- How to Style: Rope necklaces can be doubled or tripled to create layers that pair well with sarees, maxi dresses, or long kameez. They add a rich, luxurious look when styled with embroidered outfits or banarsi fabric.
- When to Wear: Great for formal weddings, reception parties, or traditional evening events.
6. Layered Necklaces
Layered necklaces combine several chains of varying lengths, often with small pendants or charms on each. They add depth to your look without the heaviness of a single large piece. Layered necklaces are trendy and versatile, allowing for endless possibilities in terms of style and design.
- Best for: Casual outfits, low necklines, or paired with other jewelry like earrings and rings. Layered necklaces are perfect for adding an effortless, boho-chic vibe to your look.
- How to Style: Layered chains are great for creating a boho-chic look with fusion outfits. You can wear them with a cotton kurti or a chikankari kameez for a casual vibe. For traditional outfits, mix metals like gold and silver or add charms for an artistic touch.
- When to Wear: Perfect for casual outings, family brunches, or semi-formal events like dawat dinners or Eid lunches.
7. Statement Necklaces
Statement necklaces are large, bold pieces designed to be the center of attention. These can include intricate designs with gems, beads, or even metalwork. A statement necklace will immediately make any simple outfit look more fashionable and luxurious.
When to Wear Statement Necklaces:
- Bridal and Wedding Events: Whether it's your own wedding or you’re attending as a guest, statement necklaces can elevate any traditional attire.
- Festivals: Events like Eid, Diwali, or Mehndi functions call for bold jewelry that stands out and adds to the festive atmosphere.
- Parties and Dinners: Statement necklaces are perfect for formal dinners, receptions, and special parties, especially when you want to make a lasting impression.
Types of Necklaces by Length:
Necklaces come in various lengths, each offering a distinct style and look. Understanding these lengths can help you choose the right necklace for any occasion. Here’s a quick overview of popular necklace lengths:
- Collar Necklace (12-14 inches): Sits snug around the neck, ideal for off-shoulder or low-neck outfits.
- Choker Necklace (14-16 inches): Falls around the base of the neck and works with both formal and casual styles.
- Princess Necklace (17-19 inches): A versatile length that sits just above the collarbone, suitable for most necklines.
- Matinee Necklace (20-24 inches): Falls around the bust area, ideal for business and casual attire.
- Opera Necklace (28-34 inches): A longer length, perfect for elegant evening looks or layered with shorter necklaces.
- Rope Necklace (35 inches and longer): Usually worn in layers or doubled up, great for formal events or artistic, ethnic styles.
FAQs
What necklace should I wear with a traditional shalwar kameez?
A simple pendant necklace or a collar necklace works well with a shalwar kameez, enhancing the elegance of the outfit without overpowering it. If you’re attending a formal event, you can opt for a multi-strand or statement necklace.
Can I wear chokers with modern Pakistani outfits like fusion wear?
Absolutely! Chokers can look stunning with fusion wear, especially if paired with contemporary styles like kurti tops with trousers or crop tops with lehngas.
What type of necklace should I choose for a lehnga choli?
Statement or bib necklaces are ideal for lehnga cholis as they complement the ornate detailing of the outfit. You can also opt for chokers if the neckline allows for it.
How do I pick a necklace for a casual, everyday look?
For an everyday look, go for a minimalist pendant or delicate chain that adds subtle elegance to your casual attire without being too flashy.
What necklace goes best with a formal outfit?
For formal events, opt for statement necklaces or chokers with intricate details like gemstones or pearls.
How do I choose a necklace for a casual outfit?
For casual outfits, pendant necklaces or chain necklaces are your best bet. They're minimal yet stylish.
Can I wear a necklace with a heavily embroidered outfit?
Yes! Opt for simple designs like a choker or short pendant necklace to avoid overpowering the intricate embroidery.
How should I style a necklace with traditional Pakistani wear?
With traditional wear, choose a choker or statement necklace that enhances the outfit’s embroidery and color scheme.
Conclusion
Choosing the right necklace for your outfit is about balancing style, occasion, and the outfit’s neckline. From modern chokers to traditional statement necklaces, there’s a perfect piece for every look. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll always step out looking chic and polished, whether you’re dressing for a casual day or a grand celebration.