The first necklaces ever created were made from stone, bone, and teeth stitched to animal sinew. Since then, necklaces have evolved and the answer is clear — men wear necklaces.
You just have to know how to wear necklaces for men.
Later in history, necklaces became symbols of status and wealth. This is still true for a lot of necklaces (but certainly not all necklaces) today. If you choose the right men necklace style, it’ll make your whole look come together.
Here’s what you need to know about wearing men’s fashionable necklaces.
Men Wear Necklaces They Like
When picking out a necklace, it’s important to choose the one you’re attracted to. Let your necklace be a reflection of your personality.
Don’t just wear a necklace because it’s trendy or popular. Only wear a necklace if you have an authentic connection with. You won’t be comfortable wearing a necklace you don’t like.
If you’re wearing a necklace with a symbol as the pendant, be familiar with what that symbol means. Don’t wear a symbol unless it resonates with you.
For instance, if you smoke weed, it’s fitting to wear a necklace with a pot leaf pendant. It’d be strange if someone who didn’t smoke weed wore a pot leaf necklace.
Keep It Simple
Men’s necklaces tend to be simple. At most, they have an attention-drawing pendant. Avoid dramatic costume jewelry.
If your necklace draws too much attention, it’ll take attention away from the rest of your outfit.
Flashy and over-the-top necklace styles work better with certain styles. Bling works with streetwear and urban styles. Spiked necklaces go best with punk and goth fashion.
Unfortunately, many employers are finicky about men wearing jewelry. If you work at a place with a strict dress code, make sure you can wear the necklace beforehand.
Fortunately, you can hide a lot of necklaces underneath your shirt.
Wearing a Chain
Men wearing chains are drawing on a classic style. Gold chains are one of the few pieces of jewelry traditionally associated with masculinity.
Chain necklaces usually consist of flat loops linked closely together. However, different styles of chains are available.
If you’re wondering how to wear a chain, wear it with any kind of outfit. A chain complements casual outfits as well as more formal looks.
Wear only one chain at a time. Multiple chains will draw attention away from the rest of your look. Never mix metals with jewelry. Mixing metals will make you look disorganized and unflattering.
If you’re looking to avoid allergic breakouts, stick with solid gold or sterling silver chains. Cheap metal alternatives will irritate your skin.
If a chain is shorter than 18 inches, you’re veering into choker territory. Longer necklaces with pendants go well with V-necks.
Pendants
Pendants are the centerpiece of a necklace. Not all chains come with pendants, but pendants are so popular, more men are wearing them each day.
If there’s something you like, there’s a pendant out there for it. When looking for necklaces, keep your interests and personality in mind. Some people might love a military-style dog tag, but others prefer an angel, star, peace sign, or glass pendant.
If you’re religious, consider getting a men’s cross necklace. Jewish people can opt for a Star of David. Fortunately, you can wear a religious necklace every day without committing a fashion faux pas.
When picking out a pendant, make sure it’s not too big for the chain. An oversized pendant will overwhelm your look. A good rule of thumb is the bigger the pendant, the larger the chain.
It’s best to pick out multiple pendants to use with a steady rotation of chains. That way, you can mix and match different pendants with various chains. Remember — don’t mix metals.
Pendants go well with T-shirts and other casual looks. Never wear a pendant necklace with a turn-down collar shirt.
You’ll sleep better if you take your pendant necklace off beforehand. It’ll also reduce the chance of your necklace breaking.
Metals
Different metals go better with some styles more than others. Be mindful of how the metal you’re wearing pairs with your outfit.
Gold goes best with black, earth tones, and warm tones like brown or orange. Leave it to gold to contrast the rest of your outfit.
Silver goes with everything, but it goes especially well with gray and navy blue. It draws less attention than gold.
If you’re worried about matching metals, choose a simple black leather cord. Then you won’t have to worry about skin irritation, either.
Chokers
If you’re wondering how to wear men’s chokers, look no further. Yes, men can wear chokers.
Men’s chokers come in a variety of styles. Some of the more popular styles include puka shell chokers, hemp chokers, leather chokers, and more.
Avoid wearing a choker with a dress shirt or any other turn-down collar shirt. Then your choker won’t even be visible.
Wear a choker with a T-shirt or other low collar shirt. This will give others a clear view of your men necklace.
Some chokers come with pendants. Usually, these pendants are small and simple. Be aware that more intricate designs will draw more eyes.
Only wear spiked collars for events where it’s acceptable to dress more alternative. Men often wear spiked collars to live music shows and edgy bars.
Celebrate Your Style With a Necklace
Ancient Egyptians believed jewelry repels evil spirits. Even today, men wear necklaces because they think they’re good luck. No matter what your reasons for wearing a necklace are, it’ll still compliment your style.
Men’s necklaces have been in style for a while now. The “big gold chain” aesthetic actually began with British royalty. Sir Thomas More also wore a heavy gold chain during the 1500s.
You, too, should wear a necklace you feel great about.
Upgrade your life and learn more valuable information. Educating yourself is the key to success in any endeavor.