Whether you’re after a simple chain or enough bling to be seen from space, take a look at everything you need to get started. Learn how to choose the right chain length and how to wear dog tags.
From the intricate beadwork of Maasai warriors to the gold chains worn by Nairobians, men's necklaces have always made a statement. The right piece isn’t just about style—it’s a reflection of your journey, a marker of moments, and a symbol of who you are. What story will yours tell?
Curated with the modern man in mind, Haute Haus brings you a collection of men's necklaces that blend timeless style with everyday wearability. Each piece is carefully selected to complement your individuality—whether it’s a statement chain or a subtle accent. Designed for versatility and crafted for impact, our necklaces are more than accessories; they’re reflections of your journey, your style, and your story.
How to Wear Men's Necklaces
1. Know the Story You Want to Tell
Your necklace speaks before you do. Are you going for a bold, confidence-driven look with a chunky gold chain, or something more subtle like a minimalist steel chain and cross pendant? The type of necklace you choose should reflect your personality and the impression you want to make.
2. Know What You'll Wear It With
Think about how your necklace will fit into your wardrobe. Will you wear it over a T-shirt to stand out, or under a button-down for a hint of flair? For example, a Thor’s Hammer pendant worn atop a simple tee makes a strong statement, while a 2mm gold-tone chain peeking from beneath a collared shirt adds a refined touch. For a relaxed, summer-ready vibe, go for a waxed cotton cord that transitions easily from day to night.
3. Know What Colors You Need and Match Metals
Coordination is key in men’s jewelry. Your necklace should complement your outfit and other accessories—whether that’s a silver watch, leather bracelet, or gold ring. Stick to the same metal tones to keep your look cohesive. And since necklaces sit directly on your skin, opt for nickel-free or hypoallergenic metals to avoid irritation.
4. Know How Many You'll Wear
Layering necklaces can look incredible when done right. If you plan to wear multiple necklaces, vary the textures, lengths, and styles. A thick chain paired with a beaded necklace and a thin pendant chain adds dimension and visual interest. Just remember: under your shirt, keep it minimal. On top, feel free to get bold.
Choosing the Best Size & Length of Chains
When it comes to men’s jewelry, getting the necklace size right can make or break your look. Whether you're into pendants, chains, or statement pieces, here’s a quick guide to finding the perfect necklace length and width for your style.
Necklace Lengths for Men
Most men’s chains fall around 50 cm (20"), sitting neatly at the collarbone—right between the top two buttons of a shirt. This classic length looks great whether worn over or under your shirt. If you’re adding a pendant, go slightly longer to let it sit mid-chest for a balanced look.
Length Guide
35–45 cm (14–18") – A snug, choker-style fit that sits high on the neck and shows above your shirt.
50–55 cm (20–22") – The most popular length for men’s necklaces, resting at the collarbone. Works well with or without a pendant.
55–61 cm (22–24") – Falls mid-chest and is ideal for dog tags, medallions, and statement pendants.
61–76 cm (24–30") – Designed to be worn outside your shirt. Best paired with bold pendants or thick chains for maximum impact.
Necklace Widths for Men
The width of your chain says just as much as the length. If you're keeping things low-key, start with something slim. Going for bold? Thicker chains will make sure all eyes are on you.
Width Guide
1–6 mm – Sleek and subtle. This range covers everything from ultra-thin chains to the standard width of most everyday men’s necklaces. Perfect for layering or solo wear.
6–10 mm – A step up in size. These widths are ideal for pendants or standout chains worn over your shirt.
10-X mm – Statement territory. These chunky, bold chains are made to impress and dominate your outfit—think modern-day royalty.
Pro tip: Keep your necklace proportions balanced. A super thick chain with a short length might look off, just like a small pendant on a wide chain. Harmony between length and width is key in men’s jewelry.
6 Types of Necklaces for Men
Forget the costume jewelry or string of pearls your grandma rocks. Nowadays, necklaces for men come in a wide range of styles to match your story.
1. Dog Tags
Once used on the battlefield, dog tags have evolved into bold icons of identity and style. At Haute Haus, we’ve redefined this piece of men’s jewelry—keeping its roots in personal storytelling, but making it fashion-forward.
Dog Tags & Engraving Dog tag necklaces have moved from the battlefield to fashion and, while no longer used to identify a body at the morgue, still hold a degree of self-identification. Our curated dog tag necklaces for men are crafted with clean lines and masculine edge—perfect for engraving your story. Today, you can engrave dog tags with everything from a special date to a reminder to ‘Believe’ or 'Breath'. One tag stays close to your chest, the other is ready to be seen.
If your dog tag is engraved with something personal or meaningful, you might want to wear it under your shirt… especially when headed to the office or a formal event. Otherwise, wear the necklace on the outside and get ready to start a conversation. Not sure how to personalize your engraved dog tag? Click here for engraving ideas and inspiration.
Whether worn under a shirt for a private reminder or layered boldly over a tee, this isn’t just jewelry—it’s a statement.
Dare to define yourself.
2. Chain Necklaces
Most men’s jewelry starts here: the chain necklace. It’s a strand of rings, discs, or beads linked together—but don’t let the simplicity fool you. From textures to clasps, the options are endless. Choose a clasp that’s sturdy, easy to fasten, and fits your style (especially if you’re flying solo getting dressed).
Types of Chain Necklaces For Men
- Cable Chain – The cable chain is the most popular type of chain necklace for men. It’s created from connecting oval links and resembles actual chain. Alone, cable chains aren’t the most statement-making necklace on the market, but they’re great for holding a cross, coin or pendant.
- Curb Chain – Curb chain necklaces are made of links that interlock when they lay flat. You’ll often see thick, chunky curb chains used in street and urban style. Cuban chains or Cuban link chains are popular variations of the curb chain necklace.
- Marine Chain/Anchor Chain – For all the sea lovers out there, the marine chain necklace is inspired by anchor chains used on ships. Each oval link has a horizontal bar across the middle and interlocks like cable chains and lies flat like curb chains.
- Figaro Chain – With its roots in Italy, the Figaro chain gets its name from the title character in The Barber of Seville, a famous Italian opera. This necklace is special because of its pattern of flat oval links. Typically, the pattern is of 1 large link followed by 2-3 shorter links. The Figaro chain necklace is a variation of the curb chain.
- Rope Chain – The rope chain consists of chain links twisted together and resembles rope. Rope chain necklaces are known for their strength and often used with pendants.
- Wheat Chain – In a wheat chain necklace, oval links are plaited together in the same direction to look like tips of wheat stalks. Wheat chains are often used with pendants.
- Ball Chain – The ball chain (bead chain) is most often used for dog tags and key chains. It consists of ball-shaped links connected with or without small breaks.
- Herringbone Chain – The herringbone chain is a flat necklace characterized by v-shaped links in alternating directions. It’s often confused with an Omega chain which has a similar design but is made from flat pieces in a curved design. Herringbone chains are not as flexible as Omegas and are prone to kinking. Both are notorious for pulling and pinching the finer hairs on your neck – a great reason for staying groomed.
- Box Chain – Square links give the box chain its name. Box chain necklaces are found in a variety of widths and great for hanging pendants.
- Snake Chain – A variation of herringbone and omega chains, snake chains are made from tightly connected plates or bands that resemble snakeskin. The result is a smooth, round zig-zag pattern. Known for being delicate, they’re great with pendants.
Types of Chain Clasps
- Spring Ring – Spring ring clasps operate with a spring mechanism. To use, pull back on the small lever and slide the ring (on the other end of the necklace) inside. Release the lever to close.
- Lobster Claw – Lobster claw clasps are spring-loaded closures. They open and close easily with one hand. To open, push down on the lever with your thumb. Release the lever to close. The name comes from their resemblance to an actual lobster’s claw.
- Barrel – Barrel clasps are made of 2 metal pieces screwed together to form a barrel shape.
- Fish Hook Clasps – Fish Hook clasps consist of a metal hook fastened inside a ring on the other end of the necklace.
- Magnetic Clasp – Magnetic clasps are composed of 2 magnets that join together. Super easy to use but not as secure as a lobster claw or spring-ring clasp.
3. Pendant Necklaces
In the world of men’s jewelry, pendant necklaces are a catchall term for any chain with something hanging from it—whether that’s a dog tag, coin, or Thor’s hammer. It’s less about what’s on the chain and more about what it says about you.
When choosing a pendant necklace, think about how you’ll wear it—tucked under a shirt and blazer or layered over a tee. The size and style should match your outfit and comfort. And remember, bold pendants like Thor’s hammer are guaranteed to catch attention and spark conversation.
At Haute Haus, we believe men’s jewelry is personal. The right pendant does more than finish your look—it reflects your story, culture, or inner philosophy. Here's a quick guide to some of the most popular pendant types and what they symbolize:
Feather pendants – Freedom, transcendence, or a reminder to stay light-hearted.
Anchor pendants – Stability, safety, and a promise of hope in rough seas.
Hamsa necklaces – A Middle Eastern symbol of protection, blessings, and strength.
Ankh pendants – The Egyptian "key of life," symbolizing eternal life and divine energy.
Cross pendants – A cornerstone of Christian faith, spirituality, and commitment.
Coin pendants – Believed to bring luck, prosperity, and often styled for vintage flair.
Claw or tooth pendants – Powerful symbols of strength and defense, often linked to warrior spirit or protection in Native cultures.
Buddha pendants – Carriers of peace, mindfulness, and long life.
Thor’s Hammer (Mjölnir) – Rooted in Norse mythology, Mjölnir symbolizes protection, power, and identity. It also just looks damn cool.
4. Religious Necklaces
Men’s religious necklaces fall under the pendant necklace category, but their spiritual and cultural significance gives them a distinct place in men’s jewelry. In Judaism, pieces like the Evil Eye, Hamsa, or Star of David are worn as pendants. In Islam, necklaces featuring the Koran or the name of Allah are common. Christian men often wear cross necklaces, saint medals, or rosaries—while rosaries are traditionally prayer tools, they’re also worn as jewelry by many today.
TYPES OF CROSS PENDANTS
- Latin Cross – This is the most common and recognizable cross pendant. It represents the cross of the crucifixion.
- Greek Cross – Another popular cross pendant with equal arms on all sides.
- Crucifix – Not to be confused with a Latin Cross, a crucifix depicts the crucifixion of Jesus and shows his body nailed to the cross.
- Crusader’s Cross – Also known as the Jerusalem Cross, this pendant consists of a large cross with smaller crosses placed at each angle
- Byzantine Cross – Also called the Russian Orthodox Cross. It originated with the 6th Byzantine Empire and is characterized by its three horizontal crossbeams.
- Celtic Cross – Representing eternal life, this Irish Cross is similar to a Latin Cross with a circle around the center.
- St. Thomas Cross – Also known as Persian Cross, this cross can be traced back to one of the oldest Christian communities in the world – the Saint Thomas Christians of India.
- Gothic Cross – The Gothic Cross is associated with Gothic culture.
- Ankh Cross – Originally a symbol in ancient Egypt for life, it was adopted by the Egyptian and North African Christians (the Copts).
- Sideways Cross – A Latin Cross on its side represents that the work of Christ was finished with his death and resurrection.
5. Beaded Necklaces
Beaded necklaces have a rich history that stretches back over 110,000 years, with some of the earliest examples found in Israel’s Skhul Cave. Originally made from shells, today’s beads come in various materials, including wood, stone, metal, and plastic. Shell bead necklaces continue to be a vibrant part of global night markets.
In Kenya, beads have long been a symbol of culture, status, and personal identity. Traditionally, beads were worn to signify one's community, age, and even achievements. Beaded jewelry was a crucial part of ceremonial attire, and each bead often carried its own meaning or story. In modern times, beads continue to hold deep cultural significance, adding a sense of history and pride to any piece of jewelry.
A beaded necklace in men's jewelry evokes more than just a relaxed or bohemian vibe—it’s a connection to heritage and self-expression. Whether crafted from wood, stone, or metal, these necklaces carry a sense of timelessness, grounding you in both style and story. So, when you wear a beaded necklace, be prepared to share the deeper significance it holds, especially in the rich context of Kenyan culture.
6. Leather Necklaces
The key to wearing leather necklace is ensuring it complements the other leather pieces in your outfit, such as your watch strap or belt. While this isn’t a strict rule, matching these elements can help keep your look cohesive and polished.
In Kenya, leather has deep historical significance, often symbolizing strength, protection, and connection to one's heritage. Traditional leather necklaces, often worn during rituals and ceremonies, conveyed important cultural meanings. Today, leather necklaces, whether made from animal hide or vegan materials, continue to evoke a sense of earthy authenticity and style.
However, remember that leather can’t withstand moisture like stainless steel can. It loses its natural oils when wet, causing it to shrink or discolor. So, it’s best to avoid wearing your leather necklace in the shower to preserve its integrity and color. Keep this in mind when selecting your pieces for everyday wear, special events, or when you're curating your Haute Haus collection.
How to Clean & Care For Necklaces
Keeping your necklace clean is key to maintaining its shine and durability. Dirt and dust can cause your chain to weaken, and pendants can start to look dull with all the fingerprints, sweat, and oils that accumulate over time. To keep everything looking fresh, here's how to clean different types of jewelry.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Necklaces & Jewelry
For a simple clean:
- Add a few drops of mild dish soap to a bowl of warm water.
- Dip a soft, lint-free cloth into the water and gently wipe down the necklace (remember to remove the pendant first).
- After cleaning, rinse the necklace with water and dry it with a clean towel.
- For that extra sparkle, finish off by buffing it with a polishing cloth.
The steps above can also be used for steel rings, bracelets and pendants. Some people in our office swear by toothpaste and an old toothbrush for cleaning stainless steel necklaces. Be sure you use a non-abrasive, non-whitening toothpaste and completely rinse the necklace afterwards.
How to Clean Leather Necklaces & Bracelets
Leather is a little more delicate, so don’t soak it in water—it can shrink or lose color. Instead, lightly dampen a cloth with water and add a tiny bit of mild hand soap (without moisturizer). Gently wipe down the necklace or bracelet, then use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Let it air dry, and you’re good to go.
How to Clean Bead & Stone Necklaces
For beaded necklaces, grab a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) and a bowl of warm water with a drop of mild dish soap. Gently scrub the beads with the brush to remove any dirt or grime. Wipe the soap off with a clean, damp towel and let the necklace dry naturally.
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