Recently, a stunning necklace from Kendra Scott caught my eye on a passerby. It gracefully rested in the neckline, positioned perfectly—not a choker, yet not overly long either. Later that evening, one was ordered, but upon arrival, it failed to mirror the fit I had admired; the clasp couldn’t adjust to my preference. The necklace hung low, frustratingly just below my collarbone.

Determined to rectify this, I delved into various methods of adjusting necklace lengths, uncovering three practical techniques that might benefit others facing similar challenges.

Utilize a Stud Earring

TikTok proved to be a treasure trove of solutions, particularly one ingenious trick: by folding the chain at the back and using a small earring post to secure it, one can effectively reduce the chain’s length. Alternatively, the earring can pierce through either side of the chain without needing to fold it, bypassing the clasp entirely, as shown in this video.

This method might not appeal to everyone, especially if the necklace design needs to remain pristine from the back. For those with long hair, however, it might work quite well. Unfortunately, my delicate chain was too fine to accommodate the earring post. Nevertheless, for sturdier chains, this trick is undoubtedly a solid choice, as the earring back secures everything nicely.

Employ a Small Rubber Band

Further exploration of TikTok led me to another technique—using tiny rubber bands to shorten necklaces. This involves either gathering part of the chain near the clasp or weaving the band around each side of the clasp for a tighter look, demonstrated in this clip.

I gave this method a try, but my apprehension about wearing it publicly lingered—what if the rubber band snapped? Moreover, it became a hair entangling hazard at the nape of my neck. (For anyone experiencing jewelry and hair tangles, Nair might help.)

While this option worked, its unreliability is concerning. Maintaining jewelry in a tangle-free, organized state is important, and wrapping it with rubber bands feels somewhat subpar. Still, if the necklace is inexpensive, this method can serve in a crunch.

Consider Purchasing a Necklace Shortener

Sometimes, hacks can be a quick fix for minor issues, while other times a specialized product is needed. After encountering minor success with DIY options yet not achieving the desired outcome, I opted to buy a necklace shortener.

This particular shortener is both attractive and functional, providing an aesthetically pleasing solution from both the front and back. It effectively reduces the chain’s length by threading both sections of the chain through designated holes, allowing for standard clasping as usual. Offered in sets of two, it can be used creatively for layering chains, available in various finishes including gold and silver.

If the earring method suits your chain’s size or if you’re okay with a rubber band tucked behind, those options can be quite effective. However, for a refined look that works universally, investing in a necklace shortener is a superior endeavor.