Lariat Necklace Review: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
Lariat necklaces have become a must-have accessory in every jewelry collection. These versatile pieces offer endless styling possibilities while adding elegance to any outfit.
If you’re curious about these stunning pieces or considering adding one to your collection, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about lariat necklaces
Key Takeaways
Before diving deeper, here are the essential points about lariat necklaces:
- Unique Design: Lariat necklaces feature an open-ended design without traditional clasps, forming a Y-shape when worn
- Versatile Styling: Can be worn in multiple ways including looped, knotted, or crossed over
- Flattering Silhouette: Creates a vertical line that elongates the neck and torso
- Historical Significance: Dating back to the Victorian era with strong associations to the 1920s flapper fashion
- Modern Resurgence: Currently experiencing a strong comeback in contemporary fashion
- Material Variety: Available in gold, silver, platinum, and affordable costume versions
- Styling Flexibility: Pairs well with both casual outfits and formal attire
- Length Options: Typically longer than traditional necklaces, often 36+ inches
- Symbolic Meaning: Represents flow and connection through its intertwining design
- Celebrity Endorsement: Frequently seen on red carpets and among celebrity fashion choices
What Are Lariat Necklaces and Why Are They So Popular?
A lariat necklace is a distinctive style characterized by its lack of traditional closure methods like clasps. Instead, these necklaces feature an open-ended design that allows for versatile styling options. Unlike standard necklaces, lariat necklaces don’t form a closed circle around your neck but rather create a Y-shaped silhouette with ends that drape beautifully down the front.
The popularity of lariat necklaces has surged in recent years due to their versatility and elegant appearance. These necklaces add a touch of sophistication to any outfit while elongating the neckline.
Their adaptability makes them perfect for both casual and formal occasions. The lariat design originated during the late Victorian period around the 1900s and gained substantial popularity during the 1920s when they became associated with “flapper” attire. Today, they’ve made a remarkable comeback as fashion-forward individuals appreciate their timeless yet modern appeal.
The Fascinating History of Lariat Necklaces
The history of lariat necklaces stretches back to the late Victorian era, around the 1900s. Originally inspired by functional lariat ropes used in ranching, these necklaces transformed the practical tool into an elegant fashion statement. During the Edwardian period, these necklaces featured delicate chains adorned with pearls and precious gemstones.
The 1920s marked a significant moment for lariat necklaces as they became closely associated with the flapper fashion movement. Long, draping necklaces perfectly complemented the straight silhouettes of flapper dresses. These necklaces often featured tassels and beaded ends that moved gracefully with the energetic dances of the era.
After falling somewhat out of mainstream fashion for several decades, lariat necklaces experienced a renaissance in the early 2000s. Designers began reimagining these pieces with modern materials and styling options. Today, lariat necklaces have firmly established themselves as both a fashion staple and a timeless accessory that continues to evolve while maintaining its distinctive character.
Different Types of Lariat Necklaces to Consider
Lariat necklaces come in various styles to suit different preferences and occasions:
- Classic Chain Lariats: These feature simple metal chains without embellishments, perfect for everyday wear and minimalist aesthetics. The clean lines and subtle elegance make them highly versatile.
- Beaded Lariats: Incorporating beads along the chain or at the ends, these lariats add texture and visual interest. They often feature semi-precious stones or glass beads for added color.
- Pendant Lariats: These designs feature distinctive pendants or charms at one or both ends of the necklace. Popular pendants include geometric shapes, meaningful symbols, or decorative elements.
- Tassel Lariats: With flowing tassel ends, these lariats create movement and drama. The swinging tassels add a playful element to the sophisticated design.
- Pearl Lariats: Incorporating cultured or freshwater pearls, these elegant options are perfect for formal events and special occasions. The luminous pearls create a timeless, luxurious look.
- Multi-Strand Lariats: These feature several chains or strands for a more substantial, statement-making appearance. They create visual complexity while maintaining the characteristic Y-shape.
How to Choose the Perfect Lariat Necklace for You
Selecting the ideal lariat necklace involves considering several important factors:
Material is perhaps the most crucial consideration. Gold lariat necklaces offer warmth and luxury, with options including 14K and 18K gold in yellow, rose, or white variations. Silver lariats provide a cooler, contemporary look at a more accessible price point. Many quality options feature sterling silver with rhodium plating for tarnish resistance.
Length dramatically affects how the lariat will hang. Standard lariats measure 36+ inches, allowing for various styling options. Consider your height and neckline preferences when choosing length. Petite individuals might prefer shorter lariats, while taller people can confidently wear longer styles.
The weight and thickness of the chain matter for both aesthetics and comfort. Delicate chains create a subtle, elegant look suitable for layering, while bolder chains make stronger statements on their own. The chain thickness should balance with any pendants or end pieces.
End embellishments define the lariat’s character. Options include simple bar ends, tassels, gemstone drops, or decorative elements. Choose embellishments that reflect your personal style and complement your wardrobe. Versatile options like simple geometric shapes work with multiple outfits.
Budget considerations are also important. Quality lariat necklaces are available across price ranges, from affordable fashion jewelry to fine jewelry investments. Focus on finding pieces with good craftsmanship regardless of price point.
Styling Your Lariat Necklace: Creative Ways to Wear It
The versatility of lariat necklaces makes them exceptionally fun to style. Here are several approaches:
The basic loop is the most straightforward way to wear a lariat. Simply drape it around your neck with the center at the back, allowing one end to hang down your front. This creates the characteristic Y-shape that defines the lariat style.
For a more dramatic look, try the criss-cross style by looping the necklace once around your neck, then crossing the ends before letting them hang. This creates an elegant X-pattern across your décolletage.
The double-loop technique involves wrapping the lariat twice around your neck to create a layered effect with shorter hanging ends. This works particularly well with longer lariats.
You can also style your lariat as a bracelet by wrapping it multiple times around your wrist and securing it with a simple knot. This gives you additional versatility from a single piece.
For formal occasions, consider a back-drape style by wearing the lariat backward so the pendant or tassel hangs down your back. This creates a stunning effect with backless dresses or tops.
Matching Outfits With Your Lariat Necklace
The right outfit pairing enhances the beauty of your lariat necklace:
For casual outfits, pair a simple lariat with a basic t-shirt or tank top. The vertical line of the lariat adds interest to an otherwise plain ensemble. Denim outfits particularly benefit from the softening effect of a lariat necklace.
Office attire gains sophistication with the right lariat. Wear a gold or silver chain lariat with a button-up shirt or blouse, allowing it to hang over your collar or inside a V-neck for a polished look.
Evening wear calls for more elaborate lariat styles. Pair a gemstone or pearl lariat with a simple black dress to create an elegant focal point. Backless dresses provide a perfect canvas for reverse-style lariat wearing.
Necklines matter significantly when choosing a lariat. These necklaces work beautifully with V-necks, scoop necks, and boat necks. For higher necklines, opt for longer lariats that hang below the collar.
Seasonal styling should also be considered. Lighter, more delicate lariats work well for spring and summer with flowy fabrics, while chunkier styles complement fall and winter layered outfits.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Lariat Necklaces
Proper care ensures your lariat necklace remains beautiful for years to come:
Storage is crucial for preventing tangles and damage. Store your lariat necklace fully extended rather than bunched up. Using individual jewelry pouches or hanging organizers prevents chains from tangling with other pieces.
Regular cleaning maintains the lariat’s shine. For gold and silver lariats, use a soft polishing cloth to remove tarnish and restore luster. For more thorough cleaning, soak in mild soap solution before gently brushing with a soft toothbrush.
Avoid exposing your lariat necklace to harsh chemicals like perfume, hairspray, and cleaning products. Always put on your necklace after applying cosmetics and hair products to prevent buildup and potential damage.
Be mindful of activities while wearing your lariat. Remove it during exercise, swimming, or other vigorous activities that might cause tangling or breakage. The open-ended design makes lariats more vulnerable to catching on objects.
Professional maintenance is recommended periodically, especially for fine jewelry lariats. Have a jeweler check for weak points in the chain and clean areas you cannot easily reach at home.
Best Brands for Quality Lariat Necklaces
Several brands stand out for their exceptional lariat necklace offerings:
For luxury options, brands like Tiffany & Co. and David Yurman create exquisite lariat necklaces with premium materials and impeccable craftsmanship. These investment pieces often feature precious metals and gemstones.
Mid-range brands such as Nordstrom’s in-house line and Kendra Scott offer stylish lariat necklaces at more accessible price points without compromising quality. These brands balance affordability with durability and design.
For budget-friendly options, look to brands like PAVOI and Fwlisesa on Amazon, which offer attractive lariat designs at reasonable prices. These brands use gold-plated or silver-plated materials that provide the look of fine jewelry at a fraction of the cost.
Artisan marketplaces like Etsy showcase unique, handcrafted lariat necklaces from independent jewelry makers. These pieces often feature one-of-a-kind designs and personal touches not found in mass-produced options.
When shopping online, look for brands with strong customer reviews regarding both product quality and customer service. Pay attention to material descriptions and return policies to ensure satisfaction with your purchase.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Lariat Necklace
Avoid these pitfalls when shopping for your perfect lariat necklace:
Overlooking quality indicators can lead to disappointment. Check for secure connections between chain links and end pieces. For precious metals, verify proper hallmarks indicating material authenticity.
Ignoring material descriptions may result in unexpected tarnishing or discoloration. Know the difference between solid gold, gold-filled, gold-plated, and gold vermeil. Sterling silver should be clearly marked as 925.
Choosing the wrong length is a common error. Consider your typical outfits and necklines when selecting length. Remember that lariats should be long enough to create their characteristic drape.
Neglecting your personal style for trends can lead to purchases you won’t wear. Choose lariat styles that complement your existing wardrobe and personal aesthetic rather than following temporary fashion trends.
Forgetting to check return policies is risky when buying online. Ensure the retailer offers reasonable returns in case the necklace doesn’t meet your expectations regarding size, weight, or appearance.
Lariat Necklaces in Contemporary Fashion
Lariat necklaces continue to evolve in modern fashion contexts:
Recent runway trends have shown lariat necklaces paired with both minimalist and maximalist styles. Designers like Chloé and Givenchy have featured chunky chain lariats, while others showcase more delicate versions with meaningful pendants.
Celebrity style influencers frequently sport lariat necklaces on red carpets and in street style. Their styling choices have helped popularize creative wearing methods and unexpected pairings, bringing fresh perspectives to this classic jewelry style.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have amplified the popularity of lariat necklaces, with influencers showcasing innovative styling approaches. Hashtags like #lariatnecklace reveal thousands of styling inspirations and purchasing options.
Contemporary lariat designs often incorporate sustainable and ethical materials, reflecting growing consumer awareness. Many newer brands focus on eco-friendly production methods and transparent sourcing practices.
The versatility of lariat necklaces ensures their continued relevance in fashion. As styles evolve, the lariat adapts while maintaining its distinctive character, making it a timeless investment piece.
DIY Customization Ideas for Your Lariat Necklace
Personalize your lariat necklace with these creative ideas:
Interchangeable pendants allow you to transform a simple chain lariat for different occasions. Using jump rings, you can attach various charms, gemstones, or meaningful objects to customize your look.
Adding length extenders creates more styling options. Attach a small chain with a clasp to one end of your lariat to adjust its length for different necklines and wearing styles.
Incorporating personal mementos makes your lariat unique. Consider adding family heirlooms, special beads from travels, or meaningful charms to create a piece with personal significance.
Temporary embellishments offer seasonal variety. Wrap thin ribbons around portions of the chain or add removable decorative elements to refresh your lariat’s appearance without permanent alterations.
Learning basic jewelry-making techniques expands your customization options. Simple skills like opening and closing jump rings allow you to easily modify and personalize your lariat necklace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lariat necklaces still in style?
Yes, lariat necklaces remain fashionable and have experienced a significant resurgence in recent years, with designers creating contemporary versions of this timeless style.
How do I keep my lariat necklace from slipping?
Secure your lariat by slightly twisting the chain where it crosses or using a small, invisible silicone stopper to hold it in place.
Can I wear a lariat necklace with a high neckline?
Yes, choose a longer lariat that extends below the neckline, allowing the pendant to be visible and creating an elegant vertical line.
What length lariat necklace is most versatile?
A 30-36 inch lariat offers the most styling options, allowing for various wrapping techniques while maintaining the characteristic drape.
How do I clean my gold lariat necklace?
Use a soft polishing cloth for regular maintenance and mild soap with warm water for deeper cleaning, followed by thorough drying.
Can I shower with my lariat necklace?
It’s not recommended, as water and bath products can damage metal finishes and accelerate tarnishing, particularly with silver or plated pieces.
What does a lariat necklace symbolize?
Traditionally, lariat necklaces symbolize flow, connection, and adaptability due to their fluid, open-ended design.
Are lariat and Y necklaces the same?
While similar, Y necklaces typically have fixed shapes with clasps, while true lariats have no clasp and offer more styling versatility.
How do I prevent my lariat necklace from tangling?
Store it fully extended, either hanging or laid flat, and avoid storing with other jewelry that might cause entanglement.
What metals work best for lariat necklaces?
Gold and silver are most common due to their flexibility and durability, but platinum and stainless steel options are also available.
