Chokers draw the eye to the neck and collarbone, emphasizing the graceful curve of your throat for a beautiful elongating effect. They can be worn alone, or paired with longer necklaces for a chic layering look. And, contrary to popular belief, they aren’t totally reserved for people stuck in ‘90s nostalgia! Chokers, like any other piece of jewelry, come in a wide variety of designs and styles, with design inspiration stemming from minimalist equestrian leatherworking to iconic high-fashion runway moments. Still, since chokers sit in a completely different place on the neck and chest than most other pieces of jewelry, styling them can be a little bit finicky. Have no fear; your resident style advisors at Deutsch Fine Jewelry are here—and we come bearing words of wisdom. Well. As much as you can call jewelry styling advice “wisdom”.
When it comes to styling a choker, there are two main things that you need to consider: first, and foremost, the kind of vibe you’re going for, and second, the kind of neckline you’re going to wear. Because chokers are so versatile, coming in many shapes, sizes, materials, and aesthetics, the former shouldn’t be too hard to figure out. If you’re aiming for a rustic, bohemian look, go for a knotted leather or seashell choker. If you’re wanting to emulate ‘90s grunge, consider a lace, velvet, or fabric choker. If high glam is your goal, a diamond choker will complete the look beautifully. If vintage-inspired elegance is what you’re all about, you can do no wrong with a timeless pearl choker. Pretty straightforward, right?
This abstract vision of the general vibes you’re going for, however, has to be considered alongside the very concrete aspects of your outfit because not every neckline suits a choker. Since chokers generally sit either in the middle of the neck or right at the base of it, you need to select something with a neckline that will allow the choker to actually be seen. Otherwise, it’s like you’re wearing no choker at all! Necklines to be avoided include: the Queen Anne, the turtleneck or any other high-neck, the illusion, the boat neck, and the collared; all of these necklines, while beautiful in their own way, rise too high on the neck or chest to be paired with a choker. Instead, opt for tops and dresses with the following necklines: sweetheart, strapless, v-neck, plunge, Bardot, milkmaid, square, or scoop neck. Basically, if your neck and upper chest are visible—it’s choker-friendly!
Once you figure out your desired aesthetic and ensure that the neckline of the outfit you’ve chosen is actually suitable for wearing a choker, it is time to choose. And don’t worry—we’ll be here the whole time to make sure your choker quest isn’t a pain in the neck!
Take the rustic route with a braided leather choker, like Vincent Peach's free-spirited Tahitian Camelot Meridian Choker. The perfect mix of masculine and feminine, this boho choker combines Vincent Peach’s braided premium leather Meridian choker with a single Tahitian pearl that is studded with miniature 14k gold stars and moons and tiny white diamonds. With the natural elements in its design and a subtle touch of sparkle in the pearl, this minimalist choker is perfect for sunny days on the beach. Pair it with a crochet top for a boho beach babe vibe, or offset it with a breezy sundress and floppy hat for an effortlessly feminine summer look.
If maximalism is more your speed, you can do no wrong with a glamorous diamond choker like the Deutsch Signature Diamond Choker Necklace by Jewelry by Deutsch. Set in 14k yellow gold, this dramatic choker necklace showcases a flawless set of glittering diamonds that will encircle your neck like the world’s most dazzling halo. Despite the impressive number of diamonds nestled within the necklace, Jewelry by Deutsch’s yellow gold choker is not overwhelming, allowing it to be worn as a sophisticated solo piece that can elevate your look or as part of a necklace layering ensemble. The versatility of a diamond necklace like this, in which the diamonds are neither too big nor too small, means that it can be worn with a huge range of outfits. Wear this diamond choker with a scoop neck white tee, mom jeans, and comfy sweater for a weekend day out, or pair it with a stunning strapless evening gown and become the belle of the ball.
Photo by Waldir Évora from Pexels