by KATE KIRBY

Layering necklaces can be tricky, especially when you don’t know which styles pair well together and how to properly wear them without dreaded tangling. Choosing pieces that display your children’s names, your wedding date, and of course, your personal style can really amp up your ensemble, so we’ve put together a quick guide on how to layer your favorite jewelry the right way.

Choose the Right Length

The key to keep your necklaces tangle-free when layering is to vary the lengths. If you’re layering two necklaces, start with a length that fits tightly around the neck—a 12″ choker style works beautifully—and pair with a longer length necklace like an 18″. If layering three necklaces, go with a 12″ choker, a medium 14″ length, and a longer 18″ necklace for that perfect tiered look.

14k Gold Choker

If you’re unsure, stick with a shorter length. “I recommend going shorter, because you can always add 2″ extenders,” said Tiny Tags founder Melissa Clayton. “My favorite combo is the choker, a bar with Roman numerals of my wedding date, and a circle pendant with my three boys. My entire family is all there, my everything!”

Start Simple

When choosing which necklace styles to layer, start with a simple piece like a classic gold necklace and layer your statement pieces underneath. For instance, pair a single gold necklace in a shorter length with a longer bar necklace with your children’s names. Pair your 12″ necklace with a 14″ bar necklace or a 14″ necklace with an 18″ bar or statement piece.

Choose Meaningful Pieces

Layering necklaces can be as easy as sticking with one scheme—a single metal color—or being creative and choosing meaningful pieces. We suggest a script necklace like “Mama” or your child’s name combined with a single circle tag inscribed with your child’s birthdate, initials, or wedding date.

14K Gold Mommy Necklace

14K Gold Mama Script Nameplate Necklace

How do you layer your necklaces? Tell us below!

Shop our favorite layering necklaces here or stick around and read How to Reclaim Your Time as a Mom, According to a Life Coach.