Chains have always been one of the most timeless and versatile jewellery pieces, and today they’re evolving beyond the basics to become statements of style. Whether you’re dressing up or down, a chain necklace can add elements of elegance and sophistication or a bold edge to your look, all depending on how you style it. While chains are classic and timeless, there are many innovative ways to incorporate them into your everyday jewellery that add a little extra spice.
If you’re looking for new and creative ideas to switch things up, keep reading for fresh and innovative ways to style all sorts of chains for everyday wear.
Table of Contents
The Art of Layering
Layering is one of the most popular and stylish ways to wear chains, and you can switch it up each time to create a personalised and eye-catching look. Layering chains involves pairing multiple chains of different lengths together to add depth and dimension to your neckline. For layering three chains, you could start with a shorter 45cm gold chain, then add a medium-length chain and finish with a longer 70cm gold chain. This layering technique is perfect for creating a balanced look that works for both casual and formal occasions. You can switch the lengths and number of chains to suit your liking.
Play with Chain Styles
To create a unique and trendy look, try experimenting with different chain styles and textures. With such a wide variety of chain styles available, there’s plenty of opportunity to create a rich combination that reflects your style. Try mixing a more delicate chain with a belcher chain or a figaro chain to add complexity to your look without it being overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to mix and match textures to add variety. A chunky chain paired with a more subtle, fine chain can strike the perfect balance between bold and delicate. Not only is experimenting with chain styles fun, but the contrast between chains creates visual interest while reflecting a modern, eclectic vibe that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Mix and Match Tones
There’s no need to feel restricted to one metal when choosing your chains. Mixing multiple tones allows you to enhance the versatility of your jewellery and create a multidimensional feel. Try pairing a rose gold chain with a silver pendant or layering white gold chains with yellow gold chains. Blending multiple metals allows you to seamlessly match a variety of outfits and create simple combinations that appear intricate and refined. If you’re going for a bold and eye-catching finish, try pairing warm and cool tones together, such as yellow gold with platinum or silver. For something more subtle, choose metals with the same undertone that blend harmoniously while creating versatility, such as rose gold and yellow gold. This doesn’t stop at your chains, you can mix and match tones across rings, bracelets and earrings to help pull the look together.
Add a Personalised Pendant
Adding a pendant to your chain ensemble is another way to transform your look. Pendants draw the eye, creating a focal point and providing an extra layer of depth and character to your jewellery. By choosing a pendant of meaning to you, such as an initial pendant, a locket, or a birthstone pendant, it tells a story about your personality and can serve as a conversation starter. Experiment with different shapes, sizes and textures to find the perfect piece that blends sentiment with style. Pendants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your look, they incorporate personalised elements that make your jewellery feel unique to you.
Make a Statement with Chunky Chains
Chunky chains are the definition of the center of attention. They create a bold and effortlessly edgy effect, with their oversized links and robust design demanding attention and exuding confidence. This type of chain is better for a simple outfit, such as a tee or crisp shirt, allowing the chunky chain to do the talking. Chunky chains can be found in a variety of chain styles, but most commonly curb chains, figaro chains and belcher chains. The dramatic silhouette of a chunky chain transforms your look into an expression of power and individuality. This type of chain can be worn individually as a statement piece or paired with thinner chains to create a balance between heavy and delicate.
Add a Choker
Why not try a modern twist on the classic choker trend by wearing a chain choker? Chokers bring an edge of sophistication and allure to your look. They can be worn alone for a minimalist statement or in conjunction with other chains for a more dynamic appearance. Whether you opt for a delicate, fine-link chain choker or a bolder, more embellished piece, the snug fit of a choker is the perfect way to frame your neckline and add an unexpected twist to your everyday style. A chain choker is usually around 40cm in length and sits just above the collarbone. You could also try clasping a longer chain on a tighter loop and letting the excess hang down your back for a relaxed, modern look perfect for open-back outfits.
Try Effortless Long Chains
Long chains are one of the most versatile pieces of jewellery. They can be worn as-is for a sleek, flowy look or doubled over to create a layered effect that pairs beautifully with deep V-neck dresses. Chains are usually considered long if they’re over 70cm in length, falling below the bust line. The extended length of these relaxed and free-flowing chains allows them to cascade gracefully to create a chic and effortless style. Experiment with pairing long chains on long chains or layering them with shorter chains and pendants to see the endless styling possibilities perfect for any occasion.
Here are some of our favourite 70cm chains to complete you're look:
9ct Yellow Solid Gold Figaro 1:3 70cm Chain 40Gauge
$799.00
A classic reinvented, this diamond cut figaro chain will add style to every outfit. The 9ct yellow gold chain is 70cm long.… read more
Sterling Silver 70 Gauge 70cm Belcher Chain
$159.00
A long, stylish belcher chain in sterling silver. This light piece sits comfortable on the neck and drops well below the neckline for a lengthy, elegant look.… read more
9ct Yellow Gold Filled Bevelled Curb 120 Gauge 70cm Chain
$729.00
$1,459.00
A must-have in any man's jewellery collection, this 9ct Yellow Gold Filled Bevelled Curb 120 Gauge 70cm Chain is striking. A curb chain is simple, luxurious and sits comfortably on the neck for all day wear. Enjoy the luxurious tones… read more
Make it Fun!
Jewellery should be fun and expressive, and tassels and charms are a perfect way to add movement and personality to your chains. Tassels offer a playful yet chic aesthetic and add a hint of whimsical movement, while charms can be customised to your interests, travels, personal milestones and so much more. From gemstone-studded charms to quirky symbols, letters, and delicate designs, there are endless charms to choose from when creating a chain that uniquely reflects you. Whether you add a single tassel or a cluster of smaller, understated charms and bolder, eye-catching ones, these details effortlessly blend vintage charm with modern flair for a fresh and unique style.
Final Thoughts
Chains are an extension of personal style, and by experimenting with these innovative styling ideas, you can create a signature look that easily blends from work to an evening event in style. Whether you prefer bold and edgy pieces or delicate and refined ones, there’s always room to be creative with style and make your everyday jewellery feel uniquely yours.
At Shiels, we offer a huge variety of jewellery chains in various metal types, designs and lengths. Explore our range to find the perfect chain to suit you and your style.
