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Three layered gold-tone chains of different lengths

How to Layer Necklaces Like a Stylist

Layered necklaces are the fastest way to make an everyday outfit look considered. Here is how to do it properly, using the same rules stylists rely on.

Start with a base chain

Choose one short, fine chain that sits high on the neck — around 40 cm. This is your anchor and the piece closest to your collarbone.

Add contrast in length

Leave a clear gap of at least 5 cm between each layer so they read as separate pieces. Two or three lengths — short, medium and a longer pendant — is the sweet spot.

Mix textures, keep one tone

A rope chain next to a fine cable chain next to a pearl strand looks rich because the textures differ. Keeping everything in one colour — all gold tone — stops it looking busy.

Let one piece lead

Pick a single focal point — a pendant, a charm, a choker with a motif — and keep the rest simple so the eye knows where to land.

Stop tangling before it starts

Fasten the shortest chain first and the longest last. If two chains constantly twist, a simple layering clasp joins them into one at the back.

Explore delicate chains, chokers and pendants in the ZAKO necklaces collection and build a stack that is entirely yours.

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Everyday gold-tone pieces from this edit.

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Size guide

Find your fit before you order. Measurements are in millimetres and centimetres; if you are between two sizes, choose the larger one.

Rings

Our rings use US sizes. Measure the inside diameter of a ring that fits you well, or wrap a strip of paper around the base of your finger and measure the circumference.

USUKEU / PL sizeInside diameterCircumference
5J½4915.7 mm49.3 mm
6L½5216.5 mm51.9 mm
7N½5417.3 mm54.4 mm
8P½5718.2 mm57.0 mm
9R½6019.0 mm59.5 mm
10T½6219.8 mm62.1 mm

Necklaces

Each product page lists the exact chain length. As a guide to where a chain sits:

LengthSits
35 cm / 14 inChoker, close to the neck
40 cm / 16 inAt the base of the neck
45 cm / 18 inOn the collarbone
50 cm / 20 inJust below the collarbone
55-60 cm / 22-24 inAbove the neckline, good for layering

Bracelets and anklets

Measure your wrist or ankle snugly and add 1-2 cm for a comfortable fit. Most bracelets fit wrists of 15-18 cm and most anklets fit ankles of 21-25 cm; adjustable pieces have an extender chain, listed on the product page.

Still unsure?

Write to us through the contact page with the product name and your measurement, and we will help you choose.