Styling a "Lariat" Necklace in 5 Different Ways: Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Elegance

So you’ve fallen in love with a lariat necklace – that clever, no-clasp wonder that seems to defy gravity and basic jewelry physics. But now it’s sitting in your jewelry box, looking fabulous but slightly mysterious, like that one kitchen gadget you bought at 2 AM that promises to julienne anything. Fear not! The lariat is actually the Swiss Army knife of necklaces – surprisingly versatile and ready to save your style day. We’re about to unlock its secrets with five styling tricks that’ll make you wonder how you ever lived without this jewelry chameleon. Get ready to become the MacGyver of necklace styling!

Before we dive into the styling magic, let’s appreciate what makes lariats so special. Unlike traditional necklaces with fixed clasps, lariats feature a long chain that you can loop, tie, or drape in multiple ways. This means one necklace can create countless looks – from casual daytime chic to dramatic evening elegance. It’s like having an entire jewelry collection in one brilliant piece!

The Classic Center-Drape: Effortless Everyday Elegance

Let’s start with the lariat’s signature move – the sophisticated center-drape that makes people think you spent hours perfecting your look when really it took about three seconds. Simply let the necklace hang evenly with the ends dangling down the front, then use the sliding mechanism (if your lariat has one) to create a beautiful V-shape. This style works beautifully with scoop necks, V-necks, and button-down shirts, creating an elongating effect that makes you look instantly put-together.

Pro tip: Pair this look with some stunning diamond stud earrings from our lab-grown diamond collection for that ‘I woke up like this’ glamour. The simplicity of studs lets the lariat take center stage while adding just enough sparkle to make your entire outfit pop. It’s the jewelry equivalent of having your cake and eating it too – sophisticated but completely effortless.

The Off-Center Artist: Asymmetrical Chic

Ready to channel your inner fashion rebel? Take that lariat and slide it off to one shoulder for an asymmetrical look that says ‘I follow trends – except when I’m creating them.’ This styling trick is perfect for adding visual interest to simple tops and dresses, creating movement and drama without trying too hard. It’s like the jewelry version of a perfectly messy bun – carefully calculated casualness.

This look pairs beautifully with hoop earrings – the bigger, the better for maximum impact. We love how designers like Roberto Coin and David Webb create lariats that work perfectly for this edgy style. The off-center drape draws the eye diagonally across your body, creating a slimming effect and making even the most basic outfit look intentionally fashion-forward.

The Wrapped Wonder: Bohemian Layers

Who says you need multiple necklaces to achieve that perfectly layered boho look? Your lariat can do the work of three necklaces all by itself! Simply wrap the chain around your neck once or twice before letting the ends dangle. This creates the illusion of multiple chains at different lengths – it’s like jewelry magic that would make Houdini proud.

This wrapped style looks absolutely dreamy with flowy blouses, maxi dresses, or even a simple tee when you want to add some bohemian flair to your day. Complement this look with some stackable rings and maybe a charm bracelet for that free-spirited vibe. The wrapped lariat is perfect for when you want to look like you just returned from a music festival in the desert, even if you’re actually just heading to brunch.

The High-Neck Hero: Modern Collar

This is where your lariat gets architectural. Drape the necklace high on your neck and let the ends hang down the back, creating an elegant collar effect that would make even the most sophisticated turtleneck jealous. This style works wonderfully with off-the-shoulder tops, boat necks, or even bare shoulders, framing your collarbones in the most flattering way possible.

For maximum impact, choose a lariat with some serious sparkle from our diamond jewelry collection or one featuring gorgeous sapphires or emeralds. This high-neck style pairs beautifully with drop earrings that continue the vertical line, creating an elongating effect that’s both modern and timeless. It’s the perfect way to make a statement without saying a word.

The Convertible Classic: From Long to Short

Here’s a little secret: many lariats can be converted into shorter necklaces by tying the ends together or using the built-in clasps in creative ways. This transformable quality means your lariat can go from dramatic evening piece to delicate daytime necklace faster than you can say ‘style chameleon.’

Try tying the ends together to create a Y-shape or a shorter pendant look that sits perfectly at the collarbone. This versatility makes lariats perfect for travel – it’s like packing multiple necklaces without taking up precious suitcase space. Brands like Aresa New York and Sofer Jewelry create brilliant convertible pieces that transition seamlessly from boardroom to dinner date. Pair your newly shortened lariat with a choker necklace for a layered look that’s on-trend and incredibly chic.

Mixing and Matching: Taking Your Lariat to the Next Level

Now that you’ve mastered these five essential styles, let’s talk about taking your lariat game to expert level. The real magic happens when you start layering your lariat with other necklaces from your collection. Try pairing it with a simple bar necklace or a delicate station necklace for a customized layered look that’s uniquely you.

Don’t be afraid to mix metals and textures either – a gold lariat can look stunning layered with silver chains, and a diamond lariat can add sparkle to your favorite pearl strand. The key is varying lengths and styles to create depth and interest. Remember, in the world of jewelry layering, more is more, and rules are made to be broken (gently, and with style).

Caring for Your Versatile Friend

Since your lariat necklace is about to become your go-to accessory, it’s important to keep it looking its best. Store it separately from other jewelry to prevent tangling – a soft pouch or individual compartment in your jewelry box works perfectly. Gently wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth after wearing to remove oils and lotions, and have it professionally cleaned at Robinson’s Jewelers every six months to maintain its brilliant sparkle.

Whether you’re dressing up a simple jeans-and-tee combo or adding the finishing touch to an evening gown, your lariat necklace is ready to rise to the occasion. It’s the jewelry equivalent of that friend who’s always up for anything – reliable, versatile, and guaranteed to make everything more fun. So go ahead – experiment, play, and discover why the lariat might just be the hardest-working piece in your jewelry collection!