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Amplify your look by pairing a little bling with your sexy, strapless black evening gown. When it comes to necklaces, you can go short and sophisticated, or long and luscious -- depending on how you want to accessorize your look. Peek at your shoes, bag, shrug and other jewelry you plan to wear with the dress. Do they scream Hollywood glammed-up hottie or vivacious vintage babe? These visual cues will help you choose that last piece of sparkle for your outfit.
Collar and Choker Necklaces
Necklaces that rest above the neckline of your strapless gown won't compete with the style of your dress. If the bodice of your dress dazzles with sequins, embroidery or sewn-on bling, choose a collar or choker-style necklace. The Victorian mystique of a triple stand of white pearls on a 12- to 13-inch collar necklace radiates elegance against a black strapless dress. For a bit more breathing room and a modern appeal, choose a silver herringbone choker.
Mid-Length Necklace Options
If your black strapless dress has a seductive sweetheart neckline, wear your favorite princess-length -- 17- to 19-inch -- necklace. Add a little glitz to a simple gown by choosing a necklace with a diamond or rhinestone pendant. You'll sparkle! For a more subdued look, wear a silver locket pendant or a string of black Tahitian pearls.
Long Necklace Ideas
Make the focus of your ensemble your necklace. Choose a long 20- to 24-inch matinee necklace, a 28- to 34-inch opera necklace or an ultra sexy rope necklace that measures in at 45 inches. Choose these extra-long necklace lengths when you want your shoes and other jewelry to melt into the background and all eyes to focus on your torso. A string of glass beads or a woven gold chain necklace will shimmer against your black strapless dress.
Layering Ideas
If simple and sleek isn't your normal look, try layering multiple necklaces. Pair two rope necklaces together by tying them into a loose knot at the front of your gown for a modern look. Extra-long rope necklaces can also be looped around your neck twice -- giving the appearance of a combination choker and opera-length necklace. For a stunning touch of glitter on your decolletage, layer a dozen simple gold or silver princess-length chains.
