Choosing an unusual necklace design

A distinctive necklace draws attention through a particular detail: bold links, a geometric pendant, contrasting proportions or layered chains. Decide how you want to wear it, as a small accent near your face or the main feature of your outfit.

• Fine chains and pendants: a delicate chain puts the focus on the pendant, while a necklace without one highlights the links themselves. A small sparkling accent gives a subtle finish.
• Chunky chains and statement necklaces: large links and bold shapes stand out against plain shirts and smooth knitwear. Consider weight and bulk as well as how the necklace looks in a photograph.
• Layered and Y-shaped necklaces: two or three strands add depth, while a central drop creates a vertical line. Both bring movement to a simple outfit.
• Pearls, stones and colour: pearls suggest a classic look; colourful elements, resin and stones can create a stronger contrast. Check whether pearls are natural, cultured or imitation, and whether stones are natural or synthetic.

For a modern look, compare geometric shapes, smooth surfaces and asymmetry. Decorative motifs and proportions can suggest a vintage style. These are ways to assess a design; its description should identify the actual materials and construction.

Short necklaces, chokers and long chains: finding your length

The right length depends on your neck measurement, where you want the necklace to sit and what you plan to wear. The same chain can fall differently on different people. Use a piece of string or a soft measuring tape to check your preferred length without pulling it tight.

Short necklaces and close-fitting styles

Short costume jewellery necklaces frame the neck and sit close to the face. A choker fits closely around the neck, while a short necklace may rest lower, near its base. Names vary, so check the measurement and any extender. For a rigid collar necklace, the diameter and opening matter too.

The word collier describes a necklace, often a short decorative style, but does not specify a fixed length. Make sure the fit allows comfortable movement and the clasp is easy to use.

Long necklaces and pendants

Long necklaces, sometimes called sautoirs, draw the eye down the torso and work well over high-neck tops and dresses. Check the pendant size too: it should sit clear of the neckline rather than catch on its edge, buttons or embellishments. An adjustable chain offers flexibility across different outfits.

How to style modern and elegant fashion necklaces

Start with the neckline and choose one focal point. A modern fashion necklace can add character to a simple top. For an elegant finish, consider how its shape, sparkle and proportions work with the dress.

• V-neck: a pendant or Y-shaped necklace can follow its line while staying within the opening.
• Round neckline: a short necklace can echo the curve, provided it sits clearly above or below the edge.
• High neckline: a long necklace stands out against the fabric; a shorter design can work if it remains distinct from the collar.
• Wide or strapless neckline: a short necklace or decorative collar uses the open space, with its scale balanced against your earrings.

For a formal occasion, a sparkling statement necklace can complement a simple dress. With embroidery, sequins or an embellished neckline, choose a finer piece or leave the neckline clear. For summer outfits, consider lightness and comfort against the skin.

Gold tones add warmth, while silver tones give a cooler effect. A colourful necklace can pick up a detail in your clothing or stand out against black, white and neutral shades. One clear connection is enough to bring the outfit together.

Layering necklaces and pairing other jewellery

To wear two or three necklaces together, leave space between their lengths and choose one main feature. Start with a short chain and a longer pendant, adding another strand only if each remains visible. Move around to check that the chains and pendants do not tangle.

With a bold necklace, understated earrings for women help balance the look. You can repeat the same finish in your bracelets while keeping the necklace as the focal point.

Strabello Bijoux necklace materials and gold plating

Look beyond colour when assessing costume jewellery: check the base metal, coating, decorative elements and clasp. Labels such as luxury costume jewellery do not identify the composition. Even finishes and carefully assembled components also help you assess quality.

The Strabello Bijoux specifications identify 316L stainless steel as the base metal. For gold-plated pieces, they describe three layers of 18K gold plating applied using IP/PVD technology, with a gold thickness of 0.03–0.05 microns, depending on the part and design. PVD is a process that deposits a thin surface coating under vacuum.

Titanium acts as an intermediate bonding layer between the steel and gold. The commercial term titanium steel refers to this construction; it does not mean solid titanium. The gold-plating process is described as nickel free, with no nickel used in the bonding layer.

The line's materials also include cubic zirconia crystals, synthetic elements chosen for their sparkle. An 18K gold-plated necklace retains its steel base: 18K describes the gold coating rather than a solid-gold piece. This distinction helps you compare costume jewellery with fine jewellery made from precious metals.

The line is described as hypoallergenic and water-resistant for daily wear, including showers and swimming. Coating durability still depends on use and friction. The documentation also states a 180-day warranty; consult its terms before purchase for coverage and details.

How to clean and store costume jewellery necklaces

Gentle care helps preserve the finish and shine. For routine cleaning, use a soft cloth and dry the necklace after contact with water. Follow the care instructions for its materials and decorative elements when removing any residue.

Avoid abrasives, hard brushes and harsh home remedies involving acids or baking soda, which may damage the plating. A dull or darkened surface does not always need polishing; rubbing cannot restore a worn coating. Let perfume and cosmetics dry before putting on your necklace, and minimise knocks and friction.

Store each necklace separately and dry, in a soft pouch or its own compartment. Lay chains out and fasten them before storage to reduce tangling. Keep pendants and strands from piling up together, including when packing jewellery for travel.

Choose your necklace online or in store

Before buying, compare the total length, extender, pendant dimensions, materials and clasp. Consider the price alongside these details, rather than judging quality from a gold finish or brand name alone. For a gift, look at the necklaces the recipient already wears: their preferred length and proportions are more useful clues than age.

A necklace can mark a birthday, an anniversary or a gesture of affection. Its meaning comes from the motif and the message you give it. Choosing a shape that reflects the recipient's taste makes the gift more personal.

Explore the Strabello® necklaces in this category and choose a piece to suit your outfits. To see how a necklace sits in person, visit our store at Via Daniele Manin 48, Brugherio, in the province of Monza and Brianza, Italy. Discover more costume jewellery online to complete your look.