How to Layer Necklaces Like an Expert

When it comes to one of the hottest jewelry trends, one is never enough. Wearing layered necklaces (also known as a neckmess) is a stylish way to mix and match natural diamond jewelry, from sleek rivière diamond chokers to playful charms, to create a personal style statement.

“Layered necklaces are a hot trend right now because they allow people to tell a story through their jewelry,” says celebrity stylist Cristina Ehrlich, whose high-profile clients include Margot Robbie and Penelope Cruz. “A necklace with charms is a representation of personal items curated over time and it is very unique to your own story.” It’s not just the diamond necklaces you choose, observes Ehrlich, but it’s also how you layer them that defines your individuality—whether your signature style includes dainty layers or a few big, bold statement necklaces.

Tips for the Best Neckmess

Artfully arranged, stacked or thrown together in a neckmess, the layered necklace trend is a versatile way to wear natural diamond jewelry. If you want a relaxed style, layer a fringe diamond necklace with diamond beads and a big heart pendant necklace over a T-shirt and jeans. If the occasion calls for glamour, a diamond line choker paired with pavé diamond chains of varying lengths makes a statement. The possibilities are limitless.

However, the messy look isn’t for everyone, says Los Angeles-based designer Jenna Grosfeld of Jenna Blake Jewelry. “I love mixing textures, patterns, colors and shapes in one look, but some people prefer a more understated style with sleek layered chains and diamond accents.” She first started wearing the layered look a few years ago because she couldn’t pick just one favorite necklace to put on.

“My philosophy has always been to wear what you love, and the rest will come together.”

Blake starts building a layered necklace look by asking her clients to choose a focal point, which is usually the first piece that catches their eyes. It might be a pavé diamond crescent moon pendant or a diamond chain, and from there, they curate a collection. “I’m teaching my clients to appreciate the process of curating and collecting jewelry,” says Grosfeld. Currently, she says, women are seeking necklaces and charms with meaning, such as hearts, moons and stars.

Cristina Ehrlich advises limiting your layered look to just two to four necklaces, and varying the lengths based on your outfit and neckline so that they remain visible and don’t overlap. “Mixing chains with pendant necklaces is a dynamic combination,” she says. Among her favorite designers creating diamond pieces for layered looks are Melinda Maria, Jennifer Zeuner, Zoe Chicco, Jewelry by Olivia K and Jenny Bird.

“Choose a unifying theme,” suggests Rachel Garrahan, British Vogue’s Jewelry and Watch director, “such as all diamond pieces, and you can mix both necklace styles and lengths, and vintage and contemporary pieces.”

Some of the best style inspiration for the layered necklace trend can be found on Instagram where designers and brands, including Anita Ko, Messika, Marco Bicego and Tiffany & Co., feature layers of every variety, from sleek paperclip link necklaces with diamond accents to fluid snake chains and thick curb link necklaces covered in diamonds. Many are topped off with long pendant necklaces featuring statement charms and amulets. Whatever your style, the layered necklace look is a perfect way to express your individuality.

For more Fall 2020 natural diamond jewelry trends, click here.