how to wear a choker

The Guide to Choosing, Sizing and Wearing Choker Necklaces

Choker necklaces are not just cute, they’re also flirty, fashionable, and fun to wear. But they must be measured accurately so they’ll feel comfortable when you’re wearing them. Just as important is knowing how to wear a choker necklace with the right clothing - like which neckline will complement your choker necklace and how your choker can complete an outfit in general.

In this article, we’ll cover:

What is a Choker Necklace?

A choker is simply a necklace that fits snugly on the neck. By definition, a choker necklace length is shorter than regular necklaces. During the French revolution, chokers were associated with sex workers, such as in Monet's famous painting Olympia. Today, chokers are worn to embrace a sensual appeal, accentuate features, and of course, make a statement through their style for both men and women.

The Different Choker Necklace Trends and Styles

Chokers are as popular today as ever before. Part of the reason is their versatility, and the fact that they’re gorgeous. Although they were seen as a promiscuous fashion choice in the 1800s, just a few decades later, by the 1940s, they were loved, fashionable, and readily worn by everyday women. Fast forward another 50 or so years, and chokers were the must-have accessory of the 1990s. They’ve remained popular and in style ever since. There are a variety of choker styles that can fit into any style and work well as an accent to other types of jewelry.

  • Tattoo Choker: The popular 1990s style, made of flexible materials like plastic and ideal for casual wear.
  • Pendant Choker: A choker with a simple pendant in the middle.
  • Statement Choker: A bold choker that covers the entire neck, often colorful and loud.
  • Ribbon Choker: Chokers that are soft on the skin and can include bows for a cute look.
  • Dainty Choker: A choker that’s thin and nearly invisible, can be layered or worn alone.

How to Measure Your Neck for a Choker Necklace

It's easy to find your choker necklace size just by using a ribbon, string, or tape measure. The average size of choker necklace is 14-16" for women. For men, the standard choker necklace length can be larger, often somewhere in the range of between 16-17”. Use a choker necklace size chart for women or men to determine if you're a size XS, S, M, L, or XL in chokers.

To find your choker necklace chain length:

Step 1: Use a seamstress tape measure, ribbon, or string and wrap it around your neck until it’s snug, but still comfortable.

Step 2: When the tape, ribbon or string feels right, mark the point where one end of the tape measure or ribbon touches the other.

Step 3: If you used a tape measure, simply lay it down and take note of the measurement. If you use a ribbon or string, lay it next to a ruler and note the length.

Step 4: Add 2” to the length you measured and you’ll have the perfect choker necklace size.

Tips on Choosing a Choker

Personal preference for style and material will come into play when you’re choosing which choker is right for you. These options (style and material) can also have an impact when it comes to making the right sizing choice. Keep in mind, the average checker necklace length might vary slightly if the necklace is custom made. Below are some tips to help you choose the best choker style and size.

Consider the Necklace Material

Chokers can be made from any number of materials. They’re often found in lace, ribbon, leather, or even metal. Whatever material your choker is made from, make sure it’s comfortable, won't irritate your skin, and above all, won't burn your neck during hot weather conditions.

Make Sure You Measure Properly

Chokers are supposed to fit snugly over the neck. Anything too loose is considered more of a princess style necklace. Regardless of how badly you want to go for the choker look, you should never sacrifice comfort for style. Never wear a choker necklace that’s too tight or that has the potential to cut off your circulation.

Think About the Choker Width

You can really make a statement with a chunky choker necklace. Or, you can embrace a subtle, flirty style with a dainty choker. No matter the size, think about how comfortable your choker will be during an event or if you’ll be wearing it for a long duration, like all day during work - will it be comfortable? Will you be able to bend your neck?

Does it Match Your Personal Style?

A good rule of thumb is to look for a choker that reflects your style. If you’re purchasing a choker for a gift, make sure you’re not giving a tight-fitting choker to someone who mostly wears turtlenecks. Even if you’re stepping outside of your typical style-box, chokers are a fun piece of jewelry that are loved because they’re very versatile and can be used for a bold or flirtatious style.

How to Put on a Choker

Below are a couple of tips to help you determine how to wear a long choker necklace or a shorter choker necklace. It’s easy to adjust these if your style of choker is different. For example, a tattoo choker might be stretchy enough to simply slip over the head, so you may need a slightly different size. To put on your choker, just use the following tips:

Step 1: Find and determine what type of clasp your choker has.

Step 2: Place the choker comfortably around your neck.

Step 3: Check to make sure the choker isn’t too tight - you can do this by placing a finger between the choker and your neck.

Step 4: Make any final adjustments so the choker sits on your throat comfortably.

How to Style a Choker Necklace

Style your choker according to your own unique preference. There isn't a right or wrong way to wear a choker, but the following tips can ensure your choker is comfortable, stylish, and works well with your outfit.

Tip 1: Go for smaller earrings. Check out these options of cute and dainty earring, perfect to match with a choker.

Tip 2: Think about the neckline of your outfit.

Tip 3: Consider layering your choker with other pieces. Look at these dainty, cute, and sentimental necklaces that are perfect for pairing with a choker.

Shop Choker Necklaces at Bryan Anthonys

Shop the variety of fancy, elegant, and dainty choker necklaces for women at Bryan Anthonys. Whether you're shopping for yourself, or you need that amazing gift for someone special in your life, Bryan Anthonys has tons of options and styles to choose from. Shop now at Bryan Anthonys.

Choker Necklaces FAQ

When should I wear a choker?

You can wear a choker anytime! Chokers are both chic and edgy and look great when style properly with any outfit.

Can someone with a short neck wear choker?

Chokers tend to look best on those who have a longer or more narrow neck. This doesnt mean those with short necks cant wear them, if style correctly, they can work on any neck length or size. For shorter necks, pick a simple choker to help elevate your neck.

What's the difference between a choker and a collar?

The main differece between a choker and a collar is where it sits on the neck. Chokers sit on the neck while collars sit just below the neck.

Do you wear earrings with a choker?

If you want to wear earrings with a choker, choose a something simple like a stud earring to compliment your choker. Wearing larger earrings or dangle earrings can take focus away from your choker and overwhelm your entire look.

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