The Long Game: Styling Necklaces with Personality

20 favorites to mix, layer, and experiment with– no matter your style.

Julia, here! It seems many of you here share my love for jewelry, especially the kind that tells a story. For me, one of the most fun, personality-packed pieces in my wardrobe is a long statement necklace. Think Cher in the ‘70s, swaying layers of chains and pendants, equal parts attitude and charm. I vividly remember my grandmother wearing a thick gold coin on a long chain over a simple blouse, and thinking how instantly elevated she looked. Chic, without even trying.

Fast forward to today: I still love that same formula, but with a twist. I mix high and low constantly– fine lockets with colorful cords, vintage finds layered with bold costume pieces, a precious stone sitting next to something I picked up on vacation. Jewelry should be playful. It should say something about who you are, even when the rest of your outfit is quiet.

Lately, I’ve been wearing long necklaces over crisp shirting, gauzy caftans, even swimwear. (Yes– beach days are fair game!) There’s something about those longer silhouettes that elongate the frame and anchor an outfit in such a flattering way. And when you stack them– varying lengths, textures, and materials–they start to feel like your own wearable collage.

One of my most-worn treasures is my Sherman Field locket. I’ve talked about it here before. It’s a big investment piece, but one I wear often and build around. That said, I also keep a growing collection of long costume necklaces that I rotate in with abandon. Here are a few standouts across both ends of the spectrum:

Long Necklaces I Love Right Now

Costume + Bold Statement Options:

1. Chan Luu Antigua Necklace – The onyx and antique finish make it feel worldly and versatile.
   

2. Jennifer Behr x Julia Berolzheimer Malta Necklace – From my collection with Jennifer Behr last year.
   

3. Julietta Pillar Necklace – A bold, artistic feel that plays beautifully with neutrals.
   

4. Chloé Jasper Necklace – Earthy stones meet refined gold tone– great over linen.
   

5. Ysso Cord Necklace – Whimsical and great for travel.
   

6. Julietta Jamie Choker – Perfect for wrapping into your longer layers.
   

7. Sophie Buhai Jade Cord Necklace – Elegant and organic.
   

8. Mana Shell Tassel Necklace – Boho-glam with a vintage nod.
   

9. Mango Beaded Cord – Budget-friendly, very layerable.
   

10. Zara Multi-Way Beads – A fun twist that adds movement.
    

11. Julietta Eze Necklace – Fresh, sculptural, modern.
    

12. Shashi Jade & Carnelian – Perfectly in between casual and considered.
    
    Fine Jewelry + Collector-Worthy Pieces:
    

13. Sherman Field Convertible Sautoir – My personal favorite.
    

14. Grazia and Marica Vozza Tassel Pendant – A showstopper with rich texture.
    

15. Tiny Gods Feelings Necklace – Quirky and quietly luxe.
    

16. Marla Aaron Inlay Chain – Modern heirloom energy.
    

17. Arielle Ratner Pear Nebula Pendant – A celestial, sculptural piece.
    

18. Carolina Bucci Superlucky Necklace – Touches of color, never overdone.
    

19. Sophie Buhai Ice Quartz Necklace – Cool and clean, amazing over darks.
    

20. Ileana Makri Agate Stripe Necklace – Polished but edgy.
    

Styling Tips for Layering Long Necklaces:

• Anchor with one piece you wear often. Whether it’s a locket, pendant, or chain, build from a piece that feels personal.
  

• Mix textures. Pair cord with gold, stones with enamel, or beads with silk ribbons.
  

• Don't be too neat. Let pieces fall slightly off-center, especially over simple clothing like tanks, button-downs, or cotton dresses.
  

• Use swimwear as a canvas. Add one or two long necklaces over a swimsuit and pareo, especially for lunch or post-swim lounging.
  

• Play with closures. Wrap some long styles around your neck twice, or pin them with a brooch to create a layered effect.
  
  xx Julia