A collar necklace is a broad, relatively flat necklace designed to lie against the base of the neck and the upper chest, in the position a shirt collar would occupy. Unlike a narrow choker, a collar necklace has real width - sometimes several inches - and it is shaped or hinged so that it rests flat rather than hanging from a chain.
Collar Necklaces and Chokers
The two styles are often confused, because both are short. The difference is coverage and construction. A choker is a narrow band that encircles the neck itself, high and close. A collar necklace sits lower, at the collarbone, and spreads outward across the chest. Many collar necklaces are made as a single curved piece, or as linked panels that flex just enough to follow the curve of the neck.
Classic forms include the flat metal torc, the Egyptian-style broad collar built from rows of beads, and the modern minimalist plate collar in polished gold or silver. Because the piece is wide, it frames the face and fills a neckline completely on its own.
- Broad bead collars - rows of beads built into a wide, flat bib-like curve.
- Metal plate collars - one smooth curved plate, plain or engraved.
- Panel collars - articulated sections linked so the collar can flex.
Wearing a Collar Necklace
A collar necklace is a complete neckline treatment, so it pairs best with simple, open necklines - strapless, scoop, boat and off-the-shoulder tops - where there is clear skin or plain fabric for it to lie against. It competes with busy collars, ruffles and high necklines. Keep other jewellery small when wearing one: the collar is the statement, and stud or small hoop earrings are usually enough.
Fit and Comfort
Fit matters more with a collar necklace than with almost any other necklace, because the piece is wide and shaped. It should rest on the collarbone without pressing into the throat, and the back should close without forcing the collar out of its curve. Try one sitting down as well as standing, and turn your head both ways: a well-fitted collar moves a little but does not dig in or lift away. If a collar is hinged, check the hinge and clasp carefully, since those are the points that take the stress every time the necklace is put on and taken off.
FAQs
- What is the difference between a collar necklace and a choker?
- A choker is a narrow band worn high and close around the neck. A collar necklace is wider, sits lower at the collarbone, and lies flat across the upper chest like a shirt collar.
- What neckline suits a collar necklace best?
- Open, simple necklines suit it best - strapless, scoop, boat and off-the-shoulder styles give the wide collar a flat surface to rest on.
- Are collar necklaces rigid?
- Some are a single rigid curved piece, but many are hinged or built from linked panels so they flex slightly and sit comfortably flat.