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One of the most prominent jewellery trends to emerge from the resurgence of maximalism is layering necklaces. Although the style is about making a statement, it also feels casual – the throwing of styles on top of one another to create something coherent. But if you’re looking for lower-effort still, many jewellery designers have created ready-made stacked styles.
How to layer necklaces
The layered necklace look might look like an afterthought, but there is method to the madness. The trick is variation – combining different styles, lengths and even metals.
Balance is key: think about a graduation of length, from chokers to plunging pendant necklaces, and mix sleek, minimalist pieces with chunkier, more detailed statements. Numerous textures will also help to create variety: snake chains, rolo chains, rope chains, and so forth. Don’t be afraid to mix stones and metals or add beads, pearls and pendants, from charms to T-bars. Start with just two or three necklaces, and then layer on as many as you feel works.
To prevent tangling, you can try clipping the clasp from one necklace to the extension of another, allowing you to change their lengths.
A necklace detangler may also come in useful: you can attach multiple necklaces to this accessory, which essentially turns them into one multi-chain necklace, keeping them separated on your neck so that they don't twist around each other.
Wallpaper’s favourite layering necklaces
This handcrafted gold diamond necklace features a 32-inch rolo chain, meaning that it can either be worn long or doubled up for a layered look. The gold is 14-karat gold, while the lock-shaped pendant is studded with 1.60 carats of diamonds.
This set comprises three necklaces designed to be worn together for a perfect layered look: the Lucy Williams Square Malachite Necklace, a semi-precious malachite pendant on a delicate chain; the Square Chain Necklace, a four-sided, scale-like essential; and the Lucy Roman Arc Coin Necklace, featuring an 18ct gold-plated coin depicting a Roman icon.
This necklace is threaded with colorful semi-precious stones, organic-shaped gold beads, and cultured freshwater pearls sourced from Responsible Jewellery Council-certified suppliers. The unique, Georgian-inspired pendant features two hands studded with white topaz and a black onyx.
These playful necklaces are made from gold-tone brass, faux pearls and colourful cord. The charms, which include Roxanne Assoulin’s signature 'Puffy' heart and initials, as well as a crystal-encrusted charm, are designed for creating a stacked look.
This personalised necklace comes in every letter of the alphabet and is handmade from 18-karat gold, featuring two diamonds. The chain is also adjustable, making it perfect for layering.
This ‘underwater’-inspired necklace has echoes of Scottish folklore, which was the theme of the Cabinet de Curiosités collection. The gold-finish metal is accented with charms and a white resin pearl engraved with the Christian Dior signature, and the long length and double chain makes it a fantastic layering piece.
This piece is crafted from 100 percent sterling silver with 22-carat yellow gold vermeil plating. The unique twisted bar links support an oval pendant with a figure motif on a beautiful carnelian stone.
Do layering the elevated way with silver links with freshwater cultured pearls. This 32-inch necklace is inspired by a 1962 bracelet from Tiffany’s archives, and embodies all of the elegance that it’s known for.