WORDS BY BEANIE MAJOR
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JACK MARGERISON
What is it about a glinting cluster of necklaces layered against skin that yells summer? Chains, pendants, collars, lariats: the perfect blend looks uniquely effortless and transforms you into a sun-reflecting vision. Beanie Major, jewelry expert and founder of online jewelry publication In Detail tells us how to master the look…
Choose different length chains
First, assemble your arsenal. A mix of standard lengths is a good starting point — a neck-hugging choker, a 16 inch chain that sits somewhere around the collar bone; 24 inches hits the breastbone. Start with the longest and work your way up — adjustable chains are great for balancing layers.
Consider your neckline
An unbuttoned shirt or v-neck creates the perfect frame for on-skin layering — the silhouette echoes the drape of the chain. And take heed: the whole necklace needn’t be on show — there’s something appealing about a chain disappearing into a neckline.
Shop the look: Tiffany & Co HardWear link necklace | Carolina Bucci lariat necklace | Carolina Bucci Corno pendant | De Beers Diamond Pendant Necklace
Revive forgotten chains and pendants
Pull out those over-looked styles gathering dust at the back of your jewelry box. Raid your mum’s collection for something vintage. It’s amazing how Granny’s pearls or those turquoise beads you haven’t worn in 15 years are transformed by being layered with contemporary pieces.
Be creative
Feeling confident? Get creative, mix metals, add colour, play with textures — think leather, velvet, cord. Or simply invest in Diane Kordas’ metallic leather, rose gold and diamond choker — the lazy (but fabulous) route to creating a mix-and-match look.
Mix and match necklaces
Charms add instant originality. Tiffany and Co’s City HardWear collection necklaces come with detachable locks that can be fastened to any link on the oversized chain. Or add Carolina Bucci’s textured gold charms to her signature Lucky necklaces and wrap, loop or tie.
Shop the look: Tiffany & Co wrap necklace | De Beers diamond pendant necklace | Diane Kordas Evil Eye Bolo necklace, diamond leather choker and onyx lid amulette necklace
Avoid getting tied in knots
The finer the chain, the more likely a tangle. Whilst on, mix different thicknesses and weights — it’s not foolproof, but it helps. And storing pieces in separate pouches will avoid pre-wear detangling dramas and dreaded broken chains.
How to layer necklaces
Finally, don’t fall into the ‘fling everything on’ trap. Like layering clothes, layering necklaces is an art — the perfect mix is worth trial and error. Know your jewelry box inside-out, remember your favourite combos and be ready to experiment with the unexpected — you’ll quickly become a master.
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