What Length Chain Do I Need? // Men's and Women's Guide to Chain Length

Wondering what chain length you might need? The pictures below will help! For better reference, I (Abby) am 5'5'' and Malachi (model for men's chains) is 5'8''

Womens chain length guide

Here's a quick run down on chain lengths for women:

  • 14'' - (not pictured) typically a good size chain for children or petites,  most chains can be shortened to this length if needed
  • 16'' - hangs at the collar bone. This length is good for above the neckline length. It can feel a little tight on some people.
  • 18'' - hangs right at the top of your sternum. This is the most common length chain
  • 20'' - hangs about 1'' below the top of the sternum but also a comfortable size for taller or larger people
  • 24'' - hangs at heart level. This is a great length for larger pendants or pieces you want to wear on your torso without having the piece right on you chest.
  • 30'' - hangs center of chest. This length is nice for a variety of sized pendants. Be aware that it often hangs front and center of your chest.

Even if you're the same height as me, there are a number of factors that can contribute to chain fit. Most chains can be shortened. My favorite solution (especially if you're deciding between sizes) is to have a chain extender added so you can wear it 2-3'' longer.

Womens chain length guide

 

 What about chain lengths for men?

Mens chain length guide

Here's a quick run down on chain lengths for men:

  • 18'' - hangs at the collar bone and not usually comfortable to most, but this length is good for children, especially if you're wanting a longer chain
  • 20'' - hangs at the top of the sternum, like an 18'' chain would on a woman, but in my experience this is not the most popular chain length for men
  • 24'' - hangs near center of sternum. This is the most popular size chain for men and what I typically recommend. It's long enough to go over necklines (even V-neck) and not too long to get in the way.
  • 30'' - hangs a little below heart level. This is a good chain length for larger or taller men that want a longer chain or as a more dramatic length for a pendant.

Men tend to need longer chains. As a rough rule of thumb, I'd say add 2 inches to a chain that fits a woman if you want the fit to be the same for a man, maybe even 3-4''

Mens Chain Length Guide

Head over to my top choice, most popular Sterling Silver chains!

If you found this article helpful, please share it with someone! And if there is anything I left out or you want to know more about, feel free to contact me here.

Now start shopping the most stunning and one of a kind necklaces! >>

Back to blog

Shop the newest Mettle earrings

1 of 13