HOW TO STYLE A CHUNKY GOLD CHAIN NECKLACE: 8 IDEAS

Jewelry has always played an important role in history, dating back thousands of years to antiquity. Heavier chains, in particular, adorned with glass charms and decorative pendants, have been considered status symbols since the days of the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. Also a focal point of many celebrated paintings from the Renaissance and Victorian eras, top jewelry designers continue to reinvent this classic style.

Chain necklaces are no longer a luxury reserved for royals. They’ve transitioned into must-have pieces suitable for everyday wear. Here’s how to style a chunky gold necklace.

ELEVATE ANY OUTFIT WITH A GOLD CHAIN

Chunky chain necklaces are the pinnacle of maximalist fashion, transforming even the simplest outfit into a highly sophisticated style. Wear a heavy gold chain with a T-shirt, sweater, or dress, layering additional necklaces for an even more ornate look.

These styling tips and outfit combinations make mastering the chunky chain necklace trend as easy as it is fun:

Make a statement

Gold chain necklaces work well on their own as stand-alone statement-makers, elevating even the most casual outfits. And some necklaces are so original and inspiring that you may choose to build a look around them, allowing the piece to remain the focal point.

Layer chains and charms

Gold chains are incredibly versatile, becoming elegant when combined with diamonds and playful with vibrant gemstones. Layer a solid gold or gold-plated chain with other delicate strands, colorful charms, chokers, or medallions. Get creative by mixing and matching a hand-picked selection of chains, or choose a multi-strand necklace that already comes perfectly arranged. 

Layering is all about variety, so mix it up—pair delicate chains of varying lengths or add chunkier chains and pendants for contrast. Be a maximalist.

Adopting a “more is more” mantra will help you achieve maximalist potential. Vary the chain type, be it paper clip, cable, curb, or Cuban, then add charms and pendants for a little fun.  Complete the look with gold statement rings, bracelets, and great accessories. Against a minimalist outfit, the layered jewelry trend really shines. 

Elevate a tank top and blue jeans

A thick cable-link necklace packs a punch with a white tank and designer denim. Whether the top’s neck is high or scooped, wearing a chain transforms the casual look into a fashionable, edgy ensemble. Add finishing touches, such as a trench coat, sunglasses, platforms, and a cool pouch.

Pair with a turtleneck and blazer

A Figaro or Cuban link chain are excellent stand-alone pieces that complement already polished outfits. Wear a thick chain necklace with a turtleneck, blazer, and wide-leg dress pants for a simple business-casual ensemble. Complete the look with bold rings, a watch, and loafers or sneakers.

Be fearless with leather

To make an edgy chain even more daring, pair it with an oversized black leather jacket, white tee, and slim pants. Wear the chunky chain on its own for an eye-catching statement that doesn’t overwhelm the outfit. Accessorize with bulky gold rings, a gold-accented belt, and platform boots.

Pair a dress with a chain choker

Chokers and dresses make the ultimate duo. The rebellious vibe of chokers contrasts perfectly against a feminine flowy dress and enhances the allure of a seductive bodycon silhouette. A flirty crepe mini dress accessorized with a chunky choker, Valentino Rockstud pumps, and a clutch creates an exceptionally captivating combination.

Layer with a button-down

The timelessness of both button-down shirts and chains makes them an impeccable match. Longer necklaces look chic when wrapped around the collar and left to dangle down to the waist, while a shorter strand peeks out from the shirt’s opening. Or close the top buttons and wrap the collar with a 16-inch chain, and complete the look with tailored trousers, a belt, and a gold watch.

TYPES OF CHAINS

The best personal jewelry collections include a mix of different chains in various lengths to allow for experimentation. These six chain styles are worthy of any wardrobe:

Link chain

Link chains have exploded in popularity in recent years, with delicate strands adding a touch of grace and chunky styles, giving a sense of power. This style is defined by distinct interlocking links of the same size or alternating ovals and circles. The simplicity of this pattern makes it versatile for layering with charm necklaces, initials, and medallions. Try Bottega Veneta’s refined collection of chain-link necklaces or the graceful designs of Dina Mackney.

Cable chain

Cable-link chains are generally made from identical interlocking ovals. This style pairs well with brightly colored pendants and romantic lockets.

Box chain

Box chains, also known as “Venetian chains,” use cubed links to create a sturdy symmetrical pattern. This style tends to be more delicate than chunky, making box chains a perfect complementary layer for heavier chains. David Yurman offers various beautiful 18-karat gold, yellow gold, and silver box chains.

Rope chain

Rope chain necklaces are among the most common chain styles and are usually thick and shorter. Light catches the metal from any angle, making designs like the caviar rope necklace from LAGOS a striking choice for eveningwear.

Figaro chain

The Figaro design, executed flawlessly by Ben-Amun, uses a pattern of three small links separated by one prominent link. This style’s intricacy makes it an exquisite independent piece that complements minimalist clothing. 

Snake chain

Sleek snake chains feature smooth, tightly woven plates that form a herringbone pattern. The style lays flat against the decollete and is usually free from pendants. Zoe Lev offers an assortment of dainty snake chains that add a touch of glitz and glamour, no matter the occasion.

Ball chains

As the name suggests, ball chains, also known as beaded chains, consist of small balls linked together in a strand. As a choker, this style appears playful, while longer lengths give off an air of sophistication. Sylvia Toledano’s collection features fun-loving delicate beads and large bubble chains.

BEYOND CHAINS, LINKS, AND CABLES

Jewelry is one of the most powerful, versatile ways to accessorize—It tells a unique story about the wearer through expressions of originality. Book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor for help finding the perfect statement piece and learning how to style a chunky gold necklace.