How to Choose an Everyday Necklace

Before I started Meideya, I had a small ceramic bowl on the table right by my front door. It was a "jewelry graveyard." Every day when I walked in from work, the first thing I did—before I even took off my shoes—was rip off my necklace.

Why? Because it was itching. Or it felt heavy. Or I was terrified that if I wore it into the shower, it would turn a rusty copper color by morning.

But I always envied those women who seemed to have a "signature" necklace—a piece that sparkled at the gym, at the office, and at dinner, looking like it was simply a part of them. I call this the "Second Skin" necklace. It’s the jewelry you put on and literally forget about until someone compliments you on it.

If you are tired of the "on-again, off-again" relationship with your jewelry, it’s time to find your permanent piece. Here is my founder’s guide on how to choose an everyday necklace that can actually keep up with your life.

Rule #1: Material is Non-Negotiable

When we talk about "everyday wear," we are talking about exposure. Your necklace is going to face sweat, perfume, body lotion, rain, and shower water. Most fashion jewelry (usually brass or copper) simply cannot handle this. It oxidizes, turns your neck green, and smells metallic.

For a true everyday piece, you need a material that is chemically stable. If you have the budget, solid 14k gold is great. But if you want something affordable that performs just as well, stainless steel jewelry is the champion.

Specifically, we use 316L stainless steel. It allows us to create a gold necklace that doesn't tarnish, even if you never take it off. You can run a marathon in it or swim in the ocean, and it will just need a quick rinse to shine again. (I actually proved this in my deep dive: Can You Shower With Stainless Steel Jewelry?).

Rule #2: The Durability of the Chain Link

Not all chains are created equal. Some are designed for special occasions (delicate, fragile), and some are designed for war (sturdy, interlocked). When looking for durable necklace chains for daily use, you need to look at the structure of the links.

Mia’s "Daily Driver" Chain Rankings:

• The Box Chain: This is my #1 pick for durability. The square links interlock tightly, meaning it’s almost impossible to snap, even if a baby grabs it or it gets caught on a sweater.
• The Curb Chain: These links lie flat against the skin. Because they are soldered flat, they don't twist or kink, making them incredibly comfortable for long-term wear.
• The Snake Chain: This is the most stylish option, looking like liquid gold. However, a warning: Snake chains are semi-rigid. If you bend them sharply, they can kink. They are durable, but you have to be mindful not to crush them while packing.

Rule #3: Finding the "Goldilocks" Length

The length of your chain determines how often you’ll wear it. If it’s too short, it feels suffocating (like a choker). If it’s too long, it gets in the way when you lean forward or gets caught on drawer handles.

So, what is the best necklace length for everyday wear?

For most women, the "sweet spot" is 16 inches to 18 inches (40cm - 45cm).
A 16-inch chain sits right at the hollow of the collarbone. It stays visible above the neckline of a crew-neck T-shirt but doesn't dip too low into a V-neck.

Pro Tip: Always buy a necklace with a 2-inch extender. Our bodies change, and our necklines change. Having that extra room allows you to wear the same necklace over a turtleneck in winter and on your skin in summer. (If you are struggling to match a specific top, check out my guide on How to Choose the Right Necklace for Your Neckline).

Rule #4: The "Sleep Test" (Comfort)

I’m going to be honest: I am lazy. I hate taking my jewelry off at night. Sleeping in jewelry is a reality for many of us, so your everyday necklace must be sleep-proof.

This means avoiding pendants with:

• Sharp prongs: These will snag on your pillowcase or scratch your chest.
• Heavy weights: A heavy pendant will slide around and end up choking you or resting uncomfortably on your back.
• Complex shapes: 3D shapes can dig into your skin.

Instead, look for flat, smooth pendants. A small coin pendant, a flat bar, or a simple "bean" shape are ideal. They lie flush against the skin and move with you, so you won't wake up with a jewelry imprint on your cheek.

Rule #5: Versatility (The Gym-to-Office Factor)

Your everyday necklace needs to be a chameleon. It needs to look appropriate in a boardroom but not look ridiculous in a gym setting.

I always recommend a minimalist necklace for work that has a high polish. A simple, high-shine gold chain or a small pearl pendant adds a touch of polish to a blazer without screaming "look at me."

If you choose a piece that is too trendy (like a massive statement charm), you’ll find yourself taking it off when you want to wear a patterned shirt or a sporty outfit. Simple is sustainable.

FAQ: Common Questions About Daily Wear

The Final Verdict

Choosing an everyday necklace is an investment in yourself. It’s a way of saying, "I deserve to feel put-together, even on my messy days."

By sticking to waterproof 316L stainless steel, choosing a durable link like a Box or Curb chain, and keeping the design smooth and comfortable, you’ll find that you no longer need that little bowl by the door. Your necklace will just be a part of you.

[Find your new daily essential: Shop our Everyday Stainless Steel Necklaces]

Published: [January 14, 2026]