Trending: The Lariat Chain is the Perfect Summer Necklace

Lariat necklaces—a.k.a. “Y” chains or necklaces—are having a moment in fashion. The versatile and charm-ready style looks chic on its own, and also layers beautifully with other necklaces.

Lariat necklaces typically start at a point between the collarbone and the top of the chest and extend downward into the décolletage.

Superstar jewelry designer Zoë Chicco counts lariats among her strongest selling necklaces, and tells The Zing Report, “This silhouette naturally draws attention to one’s décolletage, and the longer the drop, the bigger the drama. Lariats are definitely trending, especially our heavy metal adjustable styles and fob-clasp drop lariat necklaces. Chunkier oval and paperclip links let customers decide exactly where to attach the clasp depending on their mood. And by adding multiple pendants and charms, the customer creates their own one-of-a-kind, vintage-inspired look.”

It’s the versatile nature of lariats that have helped boost their profile and make them a “must-have” for fine fashion jewelry lovers, despite the fact that this style has been around for ages—and has been worn on and off the red carpet by celebrities including Beyoncé, Jennifer Aniston, and Jessica Alba for years. There’s also something summer-y about the style, which works well for beach vacations that call for minimal packing of fashion that boasts maximum wearability.

When it comes to wearing and styling lariats, “There are no rules,” says jewelry designer Jennifer Zeuner. “It’s more about whether you crave a statement piece or a subtle addition to your collection. Lariats look great with T-shirts, bathing suits, and even with button-down shirts. Many don’t realize a single lariat can be worn alone and the bottom can be tucked into a shirt. Also, if you prefer a ‘neck-mess,’ a lariat can be layered with two shorter necklaces and often, another lariat with the ‘Y’ connection higher or lower. This creates a waterfall effect that’s stunning.”

Top: Zoe Chicco necklaces

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