It has long been thought that different lengths of pearl necklaces should be associated with particular age groups. At Pearls by Angela Carol we believe that the beauty and versatility of pearls transcend these conventions and should only be limited by the wearer’s creativity and personal taste. Pearl strands and ropes have become a staple in today's high fashion world as well as a "must have" accessory from casual wear to lingerie. With all the choices available it is hard to know what length is right for you. Below we have listed the most popular lengths and how they can compliment different fashions to help you choose the perfect length for your style.

Collar

12-13 inches long
Usually you will find this style in three or more strands. This necklace will fit snugly around the middle of the neck and will look great with a V-neck, scooped neckline or an off-the-shoulder dress or top. It adds an elegant look for a special occasion.

Choker

14-16 inches long
A very classic piece, this style will lye at the base of the neck right above the collar bone. It is appropriate for any style from casual to formal, complementing almost every type of neckline. The single strand choker will add subtle elegance to a simple collared blouse as well as casual dresses. The double or tipple strand choker is simply beautiful when worn with a cocktail or evening dress. With its versatility, the Choker is a necklace that no woman should be without.

Princess

17-19 inches long
Resting beautifully just around the collar bone, this is the most common pearl necklace length. It is simply stunning in a graduated strand and just as beautiful in a classic string. This length is perfect with any high neck fashion including crew neck styles as well as turtleneck and is just as stunning with a high, straight neckline evening dress. When paired with a low, plunging neckline the Princess length gives the perfect transition form the neckline of a woman to the neckline of the dress. It is elegant and sophisticated. If you are unsure which length your pearls should be, we recommend the Princess length because of its versatility.

Matinee

20-24 inches long
The Matinee length pearl necklace should fall just to the top of the cleavage and looks its best when paired with a high neckline. This length is ideal for a business suit giving a very professional look. It also lends itself to high neckline pullovers, adding a touch of elegance to casual wear. When worn with a high neckline evening gown or dress, the Matinee pearl necklace give the feel of grace, sophistication and luxury.

Opera

28-34 inches long
The Opera length should fall to just to the woman's mid-section, just below the breastbone. While once though to be only appropriate for the most formal affair, this extravagant length can be worn in a variety of ways to create a high fashion look. Traditionally worn in a single strand it is the perfect compliment to high neckline evening wear. When doubled, it can be worn as an elegant two strand choker. This length can also be knotted just above the bust to give a very high fashion look to any open blouse or V neck dress.

Rope

45 inches long or longer
The Rope is any pearl necklace that is longer than the Opera length but more commonly is 45 inches long. This length can be both elegant and sexy and can be looped, wrapped or draped limited only be your creativity. It can be doubled or tippled to accent an evening dress with low necklines or high neck casual wear. It can be worn over the shoulder giving a very high fashion look that accentuates a backless dress. When tied in a knot at the end or in the middle, it creates that fun, elegant vintage look that is reminiscent of the 1920's.