Bib necklaces are one of the hottest trends in accessories and are showing up with everything from everyday casual wear to red carpet-worthy formal frocks. These dramatic pieces are the ultimate way to transform an outfit from basic to bold, but only if you can find the perfect one.
What Are Bib Necklaces
Named for their similarity to baby bibs, these accessories are relatively short, rest near the collarbone and cover a large portion of the upper chest. As with any accessory there are practically unlimited versions, but most are bold statement pieces featuring layers of beads or flowing ornaments. You may have also heard these necklaces called collarets or waterfall necklaces.
Choose the Right Length & Weight
While this look is very flattering for ladies with long, graceful necks, it may not work as well for those with shorter necks. Pairing a short, chunky accessory with a short neck can decrease the visual length of the neck even more.
If you are uncertain if you have a long or short neck, try these two tricks.
• Place the palm of your hand against your neck. A short neck will be less than the width of your hand while an average or long neck will be more.
• Tip your chin downwards to your chest. If your chin easily touches your chest, without straining, you have a short neck.
Ladies with longer necks can pull off almost any bib necklace. However, swan-necked ladies aren’t the only ones who can indulge in this style. Finding one that flatters a short neck calls for choosing the right length and weight.
• Look for longer styles in which the beads or decorative elements begin below the collarbone.
• Look for chain extenders that allow you to adjust the length to the most flattering length. Even a one-inch extender can greatly change the look, but a three-inch extender will offer the most flexibility.
• Look for lightweight versions without a great deal of beading and accents. Smaller beads can also offer a less chunky appearance.
• Look for open space between elements rather than solid bibs. Open space between beading and accents lets the skin peep through so that the necklace occupies less visual space.
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| Longer Style |
Lightweight |
Open Space |
Find the Right Color & Style
Finding the right style and color of bib necklace is a matter of personal taste. However, it isn’t as simple as scrolling through the options and choosing the one that you like best. The one that grabs your eye first might be destined to sit unworn while you opt for something else to complete your outfit.
Because bib necklaces are bold statement pieces, it takes a bit of planning to find one that will be a versatile piece of your wardrobe. Take a look through your closet and identify what sums up your personal style and what you have the most of.
• Neutral clothing offers the perfect opportunity to go wild with bib necklaces. If you wear mostly black, tan, white and denim, wake up your wardrobe with bright, bold shades and patterns.
• Colorful clothing already draws the eye and doesn’t need accessories in perfectly matching or complimentary shades. Instead, opt for classic gold or silver pieces and fun black and white hues. You can also have fun with pairing contrasting colors. Try a yellow or orange necklace against a blue top, or a dark blue accessory with a red shirt.
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Print tops take a bit more skill to pair with bib necklaces because the combination can look overwhelming and confusing. However, if your top is striped or has a small, delicate print, try contrasting it with a bib necklace with large stones or accents.
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| Neutral Clothing |
Colorful Clothing |
Print Tops |
Make it Work with Your Neckline
As with any necklace, pulling the entire look together depends on finding the right length, weight and placing it properly with the neckline of your top. Because bib necklaces are heavier than most accessories, this becomes even more important.
Generally speaking, these necklaces work best when the bib or accent portion falls either entirely above or below the neckline without bisecting the fabric. The exception to this is very heavy or fabric versions that function much like a collar.
• For collared shirts, there are two excellent options. To make the most of the bold necklace, button the top all the way up and rest the necklace on top with the chain under the collar. For a less dramatic look, leave several buttons open and place the necklace against the skin so that it peaks through.
• For crew neck or other rounded necks, let the necklace rest against the top using the extender to adjust the length if needed.
• For plunging necklines, opt for a bib that fills in the open space.
Know When to Invest and When to Snag a Bargain
Though bib necklaces are having a moment as one of the hottest fashion trends, they aren’t new to the scene. In fact, the style goes as far back as 7th century Greece and Rome. With such an enduring history, you can feel good about investing in a quality piece since it isn’t likely to look outdated too soon.
For investment pieces, look for high-quality elements such as
• Accents made of Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls and genuine gemstones
• Metal chains and accents made from 10, 12 and 18-karat gold plating or sterling silver
• Classic styles and colors.
However, not every piece in your jewelry wardrobe needs to be an investment. Inexpensive, bargain necklaces are an excellent way to expand your accessory options and experiment with trends.
For bargain options, look for elements such as
• Accents made from resin, Australian crystals and fabric
• Chains and accents made from brass, cord or rope
• Trendy or eclectic styles and bright or neon colors