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A portrait neckline -- basically, a V-neck -- flatters any fashionista when she wants to show a little skin. From gorgeous formal gowns to the basic T-shirt, the portrait neckline expertly frames your face and leaves the perfect base for a necklace. You can make completely different style statements depending on which necklace you choose, but from short to super long, from beaded to metallic, you’ve got loads of options.
Pendant Necklace
The classic pendant necklace -- a chain with one to a few pendants hanging on it -- is a subtle, yet super fashionable way to dress up a V-neck dress or shirt. Whether the chain is long or short, this necklace won’t detract from your top or your face, but will add an element of chic to your ensemble. Go with a drop pendant, a cameo necklace or some funky collection of knickknacks turned pendants to complete a look.
Statement Necklace
Make a big statement with your necklace and go majorly bejeweled. Don a bib style version or pick bold colors to tie around your neck. “InStyle” recommends wearing multiple strands of beads or pearls as a way to dress up a V-neck tee, but this also works on a more formal occasion. The one caveat here is to keep everything else simple and choose only one statement piece per outfit. So, put those chandelier earrings down!
Chain Necklace
Try a short necklace that falls on or above your collarbone to one that goes beneath the portrait neckline you’re donning, but keep it simple with a single chain in gold, silver or small beads. You can vary the size of your chain and go with a very thick or very thin necklace, but stay basic, especially if you’re looking to wear other jewelry as well. This way you won’t overpower the rest of your look.
Multi-Strand Necklace
While this sometimes falls in the “statement” category, you can also rock a multi-strand necklace and keep it simple at the same time. Try a drape necklace that begins as one chain around the back of your neck but breaks into a few at the bottom or a version that compiles a few strands. This look will add layers to your outfit with the ease of one necklace, but can be subtle, too.
Open Necklace
An open necklace -- one that drapes over the back of your neck and hangs like an untied scarf -- is fashion forward, totally unexpected, but simple enough to pull off easily with a portrait neckline. Find one with fun beading or an all-gold piece and let it hang over your top or your dress.
