How to Stack Necklaces Without Tangling

Layering necklaces is a simple way to show your style with any outfit you wear. It is not a matter of how many necklaces or in what order you decide to rock them. However we at SaltyCali like to think of it as telling a little story. 

As the progression of your necklaces is layered down your neck, the beginning to end should have a flow to it, not clustered and tangled, but elegant and stylish, ending with a bang of a gemstone on a chain or something more subtle like a token. 

Necklace layering can transform your outfit from average to magnificent, but tangled chains can quickly turn this art form into frustration. Fear not! With a few clever tricks, you'll effortlessly master the art of stacking necklaces without a single tangle.

a girl wearing a three piece necklace stack

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Choose Your Necklaces Wisely

Start by selecting necklaces of varying lengths and styles to create dimension and depth in your layered look. Go for a mix of delicate chains, statement pieces, and personalized pendants. Ensure they complement each other while allowing individual elements to stand out. Consider a choker, a mid-length pendant necklace, and a longer statement piece for a balanced trio.

Step 2: Untangle and Prepare

Before you start, in order to layer the necklaces without tangling it is a good idea to untangle your necklaces and lay them out on a flat surface. This helps you visualize the combinations and prevents last-minute detangling frustrations.

Step 3: Start with the Focal Point

Start with the main necklace the statement piece and build around it. Typically put them on in order from shorter necklaces, choker or thinner chain that rests snugly around your neck or a long pendant. This serves as the base layer and provides a solid foundation for the other necklaces.

A girl wearing a two piece necklace stack with a gold shark tooth pendant

Step 4: Choose Complementary Lengths

Layer the necklaces based on length, ensuring each subsequent necklace is slightly longer than the previous one. Gradually increase the length to create a cascading effect.

Step 5: Incorporate Different Textures

Mixing textures adds depth to your layered look. Combine smooth chains with beaded or chunky ones to create an intriguing contrast that catches the eye.

a girl wearing a gold necklace stack

Step 6: Pendant Placement

If your necklaces have pendants or charms, stagger them along the layers rather than aligning them. This prevents tangling and adds a playful, asymmetric appeal to your ensemble.

Step 7: Experiment with Layering Styles

There's no hard-and-fast rule to layering necklaces. Experiment with different styles—symmetrical, asymmetric, or even doubling up on a single necklace for added volume. Wear multiple, play around until you find a combination that speaks to your style.

Step 8: Secure the Layers

Once you're satisfied with your layered look, gently put the stacked necklaces on and adjust them to fall naturally. Take a moment to ensure each layer sits flat and looks balanced. Sometimes a necklace spacer can be very convenient to keep necklaces of different lengths from tangling while wearing.

a girl wearing a shell necklace stack

Step 9: Store Them Separately

When it's time to remove your necklaces, store them separately. Use our jewelry pouches, hooks, or dedicated compartments in your jewelry box to prevent necklaces from tangling between wearings.

Step 10: Maintenance Is Key

Regularly inspect and detangle your necklaces to prevent knots from forming. A quick once-over with your fingers works wonders in keeping your necklaces pristine and ready for the next stunning necklace stack.

a women layering her necklaces

Step 11: Shop Salty Cali!

We have you covered from the neck down! With pre-picked stacks that the founders have handpicked themselves or plenty of necklaces with all adjustable lengths to pick from, create your very own masterpiece!

Layering necklaces is our favorite way to show the world your unique style on an everyday outfit. You are basically choosing a whole outfit for your neck, and that is something to wear proudly!

Mastering the art of fashionable necklace layering without tangling requires patience, experimentation, and a touch of creativity. By following these steps and incorporating your style, you'll effortlessly elevate your outfits with beautifully stacked necklaces, free from the frustrations of tangles. Sometimes tangles will happen… when it does, embrace them and wear them with confidence! So, go ahead, get stacking with Salty Cali! 

up close of a necklace stack


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