Chokers are a style of necklace that sits high on the neck, encircling it like a collar because they are made to fit close to the skin. During the French Revolution, young ladies would wear a red ribbon around their necks to symbolize those who perished on the guillotine. Ruffled collars and other neck adornments were commonly worn for three centuries before the Revolution, and the choker emerged as a combination of these trends. During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, chokers often featured cameos.
Chokers are very popular in alternative fashion. They look great paired with a corset or dramatic evening outfit, and are often worn by burlesque or belly dancers as part of their stage outfits. When choosing a choker for yourself, we have some tips for you before you go and purchase your first choker.
Before you Order
Measure your neck so as to make sure you get a choker that will fit you correctly. You want to make sure the measuring tape is tight enough to give a good look, but loose enough so you can breathe. Also, Look for a style that comes in your size. Think about the outfits you’re going to wear with the choker. Try to choose a choker with a design and embellishment that matches your closet.
Choosing a Choker
One of the primary considerations when choosing a choker is the color. You want to be certain you choose a color that both matches your outfit but also a color that works with your skin tone. Try different colors close to your skin and choose the most flattering. Some colors will make your skin appear sallow or blotchy and these are to be avoided at all costs!
Wearing Your Choker
With the right outfit, chokers look elegant and sophisticated, and can even lengthen the appearance of your neck. The more bare skin there is around your choker, the more it will stand out. You can look for clothing that leaves your chest and shoulders bare – an overbust corset is great for this. Sweetheart, V-neck and scoop neck tops also look great with a choker. Try to choose a choker design that matches the neckline, so wear a choker with a point in the middle with a v-neck, and a round-shaped choker with a scoop neck. So, make sure to get the right requirements you need when getting this classic jewelry and you will definitely stand out for sure.
If you’re a newcomer to the trend, we recommend you stick to simple and classic black styles in velvet, leather or suede, and pair with anything from denim during the day to off the shoulder midi dresses and plunging jumpsuits at night. Hope you find your favorite choker and enjoy them as much as we do!