The Right Necklace For
Your Neckline
a visual guide to necklines
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 occasion
deserves extra special jewellery.
Jewellery has become the focal point
for wedding and formal occasions, as designers are leaning toward simpler
gowns, but teaming them with statement jewellery.
Contemporary jewellery is exploding
onto 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 is 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
neck gown 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 timepieces – 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.