The trademark 90s choker necklace has made a huge comeback over the past few years. An accessory seen to elongate the neck and add a subtle sexy glamour to any outfit. Due to its increasing popularity, an array of different styles are now available, from stunning chunky pearl choker necklaces to subtle thin velvet and leather strands to tie around your neck. But how should you style a pearl choker necklace and what can you wear with one? Keep reading to find out.
How to style a pearl choker necklace
1. By fit
The first key factor that will determine how you style your pearl choker, is the length of the necklace you choose. Shorter designs are typically 13-14 inches in length and sit mid-way up the neck. This style of choker suit longer necks best and should fit snuggly enough to stay in position, but not so tightly that its feels restrictive.
Other pearl choker necklaces, around 15-16 inches in length, are worn at the base of the neck, just above the collarbone. This lower position helps to elongate shorter necks and soften angular features for a flattering look that suits a range of different face shapes.
2. By design
Pearl choker necklaces also come in a variety of different styles and widths. Although there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styling chokers, thinner designs with smaller pearls are often the most appropriate for everyday wear.
Single strand Freshwater pearl chokers, for example, are highly versatile and will add a subtle hint of sultry glamour to any outfit. Similarly, more casual styles like our Parisian pearl and leather necklaces are perfect for the daytime.
Blending a feminine bow design, edgy leather strands and pretty Freshwater pearls, these quirky choker necklaces offer the best of both worlds. Elevate a relaxed pair of jeans and boots, tone down the formality of a shift dress or bring a touch of rock chick attitude to a pastel-coloured jumper with a modern black pearl choker.
Thicker pearl choker designs, on the other hand, are more commonly worn to special events. This is due to the undeniably bold and glamourous look that multiple strands of pearls provide. Chunkier chokers, and ones with vivid gemstones or diamonds, are also ideal for memorable occasions.
Alternatively, if you have a tall frame, you could try wrapping an eye-catching pearl lariat necklace around your neck to create a two-tier choker look. The remaining length can then be draped down the front of a long evening gown – or even down the back of an open-back dress – to add a sexy twist.
Tip: striking choker necklaces, including ones with a mix of colours and textures, work best with simple, block-colour outfits (like the perfect little black dress). Otherwise, the look could feel chaotic.
3. By neckline
As well as taking the necklace design into account, you should also consider the neckline of your clothing when deciding what to wear with a choker.
As you may have already realised, given their positioning, chokers don’t work well with high necks, such as turtlenecks, or if your clothing already has a lot of detail at the neckline, such as a heavily embroidered collar.
However, there are a whole host of clothing styles that look great with a bold pearl choker necklace. V-necks, sweetheart necklines and strappy and strapless looks all work well, because they create a well-balanced look.
Semi-sheer materials that reveal a little skin just below the neck are another fantastic option. For collared blouses and slightly higher necklines, opt for a thin pearl choker and wear it higher up on your neck to avoid an overly busy aesthetic.
4. By colour
The colour of the choker also needs to be carefully considered. You want to select a shade that will complement a variety of outfits to ensure you get as much wear out of your pearl choker as possible.
On top of that, you also should bear in mind which colours suit your hair and skin tone best. While the same is true for all jewellery, it is paramount when it comes to pearl chokers because of their proximity to your face. The right shade will light up your eyes and enhance your skin’s natural glow, while the wrong hue will drain you and detract from your natural colouring and beauty.
If you have a cool skin tone, colours with pink or blue undertones will be the most complementary, while earthy tones and vibrant shades favour warm skin tones. Not sure which category you fall into? Read our essential guide to the best pearl colours for different skin tones to find your perfect fit.
Generally speaking, black or white pearl chokers, and neutral cream, grey and even soft blush pink pearls are the most suitable for daily wear and the easiest to style, as they go with everything. Meanwhile, vivid hues will make a statement for the evening.
5. Coupled with other jewellery
Finally, when deciding what to wear with a pearl choker necklace, you should think about the kind of jewellery you might like to wear with it.
For instance, layering a simple choker with long pearl necklaces or metallic chains is one way to create a relaxed bohemian look. Conversely, multistrand pearl necklaces offer more visual impact, so these chokers are best as standalone pieces.
Meanwhile, pearl bracelets work well with choker necklaces as they help tie the look together without overpowering your upper body. With this in mind, you’ll want to stick to small pearl drop earrings or studs when wearing chokers. This is because long earring styles will lead to a cluttered look.
Find the ideal pearl choker at Coleman Douglas Pearls
Feeling inspired? Explore our full range of pearl choker necklaces online, alongside a plethora of pearl earrings and bracelets to complete the look.
Struggling to decide which shade or style will suit you best? Book a 1:1 consultation with one of our pearl experts and let us tailor a design that complements you.
