18 or 20 Inch Chain: Which Length is Right for You?
Quick answer: Check these reference images. If you're male or larger, bump it up a length from these reference photos.
and feel free to keep reading a deeeeeeep dive into the subtle (but important!) differences between an 18'' and a 20'' chain!
Choosing between an 18-inch or 20-inch chain might seem like a small decision, but it can dramatically affect how your necklace looks and feels. As a professional jeweler who's helped hundreds of customers find their perfect chain length, I can tell you that these two lengths serve very different purposes and suit different styles, body types, and occasions.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know about 18 vs. 20-inch chains so you can make the perfect choice for your jewelry collection.
The 18-Inch Chain: The Classic Choice
An 18-inch chain sits right at the base of your neck, typically falling just below your collarbone. This length has been a jewelry staple for decades, and there's good reason why it remains so popular.
Where 18-Inch Chains Sit
On most body types:
- Rests at or just below the collarbone
- Creates a classic, elegant neckline
- Sits close enough to feel secure and comfortable
- Works beautifully with both casual and formal attire
Perfect for:
- Pendant necklaces that you want to showcase prominently
- Professional settings where you want subtle elegance
- Layering as a base layer with longer chains
- People who prefer jewelry that feels secure and close to the body
When to Choose 18 Inches
You should consider an 18-inch chain if:
- You want a classic, timeless look that never goes out of style
- You plan to wear pendants and want them prominently displayed
- You prefer jewelry that sits securely without swinging
- You're building a layered necklace look (18" works as the shortest layer)
- You have a smaller frame or shorter neck
- You want something appropriate for professional environments
The 20-Inch Chain: The Versatile Favorite
A 20-inch chain typically falls 2-3 inches below the collarbone, creating a more relaxed, casual appearance. This length offers more versatility in styling and tends to be flattering on a wider range of body types.
Where 20-Inch Chains Sit
On most body types:
- Falls 2-3 inches below the collarbone
- Creates a more relaxed, casual neckline
- Provides more room for movement and comfort
- Works well with both high and low necklines
Perfect for:
- Everyday wear when you want comfort and versatility
- Statement pendants that benefit from additional space
- People who find shorter chains too restrictive
- Casual and bohemian styling
When to Choose 20 Inches
You should consider a 20-inch chain if:
- You want maximum versatility for different outfits and occasions
- You prefer a more relaxed, casual jewelry aesthetic
- You plan to wear the chain with various necklines (both high and low)
- You have a longer neck or larger frame
- You want room for a statement pendant to hang comfortably
- You find 18-inch chains feel too tight or restrictive
Comparing 18 vs. 20 Inches Side by Side
Visual Impact
18-inch chains:
- Create a more formal, polished appearance
- Draw attention upward toward your face
- Make pendants the focal point
- Work beautifully with business attire and evening wear
20-inch chains:
- Offer a more relaxed, effortless look
- Provide more visual space around the neck area
- Allow pendants to hang with natural movement
- Perfect for casual wear and bohemian styles
Comfort Considerations
18-inch pros:
- Feels secure and stable
- Won't interfere with clothing
- Less likely to get caught on things
- Good for active lifestyles
18-inch cons:
- May feel restrictive to some people
- Can be too high for certain necklines
- Limited styling versatility
20-inch pros:
- More comfortable for extended wear
- Greater freedom of movement
- Works with a wider variety of clothing styles
- More forgiving if you gain or lose weight
20-inch cons:
- May swing or move more during activity
- Can get caught in clothing or bags more easily
- Might be too long for very petite frames
Body Type and Personal Style Considerations
For Petite Frames
18-inch chains often work better because:
- They maintain proper proportion to your body size
- Create a balanced, elegant look
- Don't overwhelm smaller frames
- Showcase pendants at the ideal position
For Taller or Fuller Figures
20-inch chains typically provide:
- Better proportion to your body size
- More comfortable fit around the neck area
- Appropriate scaling for your frame
- Versatile styling options
For Different Neck Lengths
Shorter necks: 20-inch chains can create the illusion of length and provide more comfortable wear
Longer necks: 18-inch chains often provide better proportion and prevent the necklace from getting lost
Pendant Considerations: How Chain Length Affects Your Jewelry
Small, Delicate Pendants
With 18-inch chains:
- Sit prominently at the collarbone area
- Create an elegant, refined look
- Work perfectly for professional settings
- Ideal for showcasing detailed craftsmanship
With 20-inch chains:
- Hang with more natural movement
- Provide a casual, effortless appearance
- Work well for everyday wear
- Allow pendants to rest comfortably
Statement or Larger Pendants
18-inch chains:
- May feel crowded or overwhelming
- Can make large pendants sit too high
- Might not provide enough visual space
- Could feel heavy or unbalanced
20-inch chains:
- Provide ideal space for statement pieces
- Allow pendants to hang at a flattering position
- Create better visual balance
- Offer more comfortable wear with heavier pieces
Lifestyle and Occasion Factors
Professional Environments
18-inch chains excel in:
- Conservative office settings
- Client-facing roles
- Formal business attire
- Professional networking events
20-inch chains work well for:
- Creative professional environments
- Casual office settings
- Business casual dress codes
- Versatile day-to-evening transitions
Casual and Everyday Wear
18-inch chains are perfect when:
- You want a polished look for errands and daily activities
- You prefer jewelry that stays put during activity
- You're layering with longer pieces
- You want something that works with fitted clothing
20-inch chains shine for:
- Relaxed weekend activities
- Casual social gatherings
- Comfortable all-day wear
- Versatile styling with different outfits
Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask
-
What's your primary wearing occasion? Professional settings often favor 18", while casual wear benefits from 20"
-
Do you prefer jewelry that feels secure or free-moving? Secure = 18", free-moving = 20"
-
What necklines do you wear most often? High necklines work with both, but low necklines often look better with 20"
-
Are you planning to layer this chain? 18" works well as a base layer, 20" as a middle or single layer
-
What's your body frame? Petite frames often suit 18", while taller figures typically prefer 20"
-
Do you want to wear pendants? Small pendants work with both, statement pieces usually need 20"
The Versatility Test
If you can only choose one chain length, consider these factors:
Choose 18 inches if:
- You prioritize a classic, timeless look
- You primarily wear business or formal attire
- You prefer jewelry that feels secure and stays in place
- You're petite or have a shorter neck
- You plan to use it primarily for special occasions
Choose 20 inches if:
- You want maximum versatility for different styles
- You prioritize comfort for all-day wear
- You wear a variety of necklines and clothing styles
- You prefer a more relaxed, casual aesthetic
- You want one chain that works for multiple occasions
Layering Possibilities
Both lengths work beautifully in layered looks:
18-inch as your base layer:
- Pair with 22" or 24" for a graduated look
- Add a 16" choker for a three-layer style
- Works with delicate chains and small pendants
20-inch in layered looks:
- Perfect middle layer between 16" and 24"
- Can stand alone or pair with one longer piece
- Ideal for mixing different chain styles and textures
Quality Considerations for Both Lengths
Regardless of which length you choose, focus on quality construction:
Look for:
- Solid metals (sterling silver, 14K or 18K gold) rather than plated options
- Secure clasps that match the chain's quality
- Appropriate link size for the chain's intended use
- Smooth, comfortable finish that won't irritate skin
For daily wear chains:
- Consider slightly heavier construction for durability
- Choose classic link styles that won't date quickly
- Invest in quality materials that will age beautifully
Care and Maintenance
Both 18" and 20" chains require similar care:
Daily maintenance:
- Remove before swimming, exercising, or sleeping
- Store separately to prevent tangling
- Clean regularly with appropriate methods for your metal type
Long-term care:
- Professional cleaning annually for heavily worn pieces
- Check clasps periodically for security
- Store properly to prevent scratching or tarnishing
The Bottom Line: Trust Your Instincts
While guidelines help, the best chain length is ultimately the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Consider trying on both lengths if possible, or start with the length that best matches your primary wearing occasions and style preferences.
Remember that many jewelry lovers eventually own both lengths for different purposes - an 18" for professional and formal wear, and a 20" for casual versatility. Each serves its purpose beautifully when chosen thoughtfully.
Your perfect chain length should enhance your personal style, complement your wardrobe, and feel comfortable enough that you'll actually want to wear it regularly. Whether that's 18 inches or 20 inches depends entirely on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
Looking for the perfect 18" or 20" chain? I craft custom chains in sterling silver and gold, designed to your exact specifications for length, style, and durability. Each chain is made to order with quality materials and traditional techniques that ensure lasting beauty.
