I used to think necklaces were not for me when even Johnny Depp was rocking chunky stacks and looking super cool. But it’s not because I thought I couldn’t pull it off, though.
You see, growing up, I always thought jewelry was for women and for men with way too much confidence, i.e., a Hollywood actor. But as times have gone by, I’ve begun to warm up to the idea of men wearing them.
Suddenly, it wasn’t just A-list celebrities rocking necklaces; influencers and even people my age were wearing chains. They were rocking them. This made me think: are necklaces truly making a men’s fashion? Especially when I tried on one, I was convinced men’s jewelry was in.
Explore modern chains for men: why necklaces are back in style in this guide I’ve put together for you.
The Resurgence of Men’s Necklaces
Not too long ago, even the daintiest moissanite chain for men around the neck was viewed as borderline excessive or a flashy fashion faux pas. Nowadays, it represents self-confidence, sophistication, and oh so much personality!
Thanks to fashion symbols such as A$AP Rocky, Harry Styles, and even Dwayne The Rock Johnson, we can confidently say that men’s necklaces as an essential element of modern fashion are back.
It’s no longer solely about wealth or seeking attention, today it is about expressing creativity and individuality.
The Evolution of Men’s Jewelry Trends
Historically, men’s jewelry has pendulmed between subtle and extravagant styles. In ancient civilizations, warriors and leaders wore amulets and pendants as symbols of power and protection.
Look up Egyptian pharaohs’ jewelry, and you’ll know what extravagance is!
During the Renaissance, noblemen decked themselves out with gold chains to display wealth. It was a symbol of luxury beyond royal settings.
The 20th century saw quite a shift; minimalism in men’s fashion reduced the prominence of jewelry, but thanks to hip-hop culture, rappers revived the trend with bold, oversized chains in the 1980s and 1990s.
Today, men’s jewelry strikes an ever-changing balance between these extremes, blending timeless elegance with modern trends.
Necklaces have now taken on the role as a reflection of personal taste, allowing men to express themselves without conforming to old-fashioned stereotypes.
Why More Men Are Wearing Necklaces
I must clarify that when I added a necklace, it wasn’t a way of making a fashion statement or because I deemed to be a style icon all of a sudden. To me, it was a way of subtly changing my look, even elevating it.
With that said, I am not the only one to feel this way. Let’s look at some reasons why more men are embracing necklaces:
- Aesthetic
Men are wearing necklaces simply because they look good! Wearing modest jewelry pieces doesn’t overshadow a man’s outfit; they blend right in and pair with any look. Whether you’re rocking a T-shirt or jeans or staying warm in a sweater.
- Cultural Appeal
From hip-hop artists to high fashion, necklaces have a deep-rooted and stylish history in cultures since eons, marking them as timeless adornments.
Imagine time traveling to the 1600s and talking to a noble gentleman about how men wearing jewelry were flashy, you would be casted out immediately!
- Sentimental Value
Whether it’s cross, dog tags, or a family heirloom necklace have the ability to carry important memories that serve as a poignant reminder. You’re keeping a reminder of something sweet that brings you comfort.
- Laying Your Chains
Stacking different chain lengths has become a go-to styling move. It’s making a statement without too much clunk and chunk. Look at Johnny Depp! Layering allows men to customize their look and turn the notch up on the fit.
Finding The Right Chain for Your Style
It’s almost as if every chain is unique in its own way. When I got my first ones, I realized this rather quickly. Here’s what I learned when it comes to what elements make the most difference,
- Length of the Chain
Chains come in different lengths. For a more subtle look, longer chains, around 16-20 inche,s tend to sit at the collarbone, acting almost as a suggestion of adornment on your neck.
While chains 16-20 inches add a bolder and obvious statement, hanging down to your chest.
- Metal Choice
Silver has a more understated appeal when compared to gold’s classic vintage vibe. But these days, you can get metals in different finishes, from black to granite varnishes to mixing metals, and you can truly rock the chain that fits your style like a glove.
- Thickness
Thin chains are worn often and are more versatile, while thicker chains make more of a statement and are better serving as the centerpiece of the outfit.
But if you want to turn up the heat and the style, you could combine the two and really command attention. Or maybe a dainty necklace paired with a thick bracelet or statement rings, make a smashing fashion statement.
How to Style Men’s Necklaces
I won’t lie; the first time I put the necklace on, I felt super self-conscious. It was as though I was hanging a sign around my neck that said, “LOOK AT ME!”
But, I calmed my nerves, and as I started experimenting with different outfits, I found ways to make it work,
- Casual Looks
The classic combo of a t-shirt, jeans, and a necklace, conveys you are effortlessly stylish and not trying too hard.
- Formal Wear
A sleek chain peeking through a dress shirt adds a refined touch to a suit. You can forego the tie when rocking a necklace and instantly enhance your fit without too much fuss.
- Streetwear Aesthetic
Layering a few chains with a hoodie or a leather jacket gives off an edgy, avant-garde, and grungy appeal. And you won’t have to get bangs or wear dark eyeliner to exude those vibes, you can do that with a few necklaces!
The Role of Necklaces in Personal Branding
More than just accessories, necklaces have become a key part of personal branding. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or influencer, a signature chain can reinvent your image and make a lasting impression.
A necklace reflects individuality, social status or even serves as a conversation starter and ice-breaker. In a world where style is deemed as an extension of personality, the right chain can set you apart, giving you a unique look that’s authentically you.
