What Is a Lariat Necklace? How to Wear and Style It

A lariat necklace has a long drop that falls down the center of the chest, creating its signature Y shape. Some styles loop through a ring or knot, while others have a fixed shape and fasten with a clasp.

That vertical drop makes a lariat easy to wear with everything from a simple T-shirt to an open button-down or dress.

What Is a Lariat Necklace?

A lariat necklace is a long necklace with a drop section at the front. Some styles use a loop, knot, or T-bar to hold the necklace in place. Others have a fixed Y shape with a pendant or stone at the end.

Unlike a standard pendant necklace, a lariat creates a vertical line along the chest. This gives it a more relaxed, fluid look and makes it especially useful with open necklines.

There are two common types:

·  Loop-through lariats: A bar or chain end passes through a ring, letting you adjust the front drop.

·  Fixed lariats: The Y shape is built into the necklace and stays in one position when worn.

Both create a similar look, but an adjustable design gives you more control over where the necklace sits.

How Do You Wear a Lariat Necklace?

The exact method depends on the design. If your necklace has a clasp, fasten it at the back as usual and arrange the drop at the center of your chest.

For a loop-and-bar style, pass the bar or chain end through the center ring. Pull it through until the necklace feels balanced, but avoid pulling it too tightly around your neck.

OBY’s T-Bar Paperclip Chain Lariat Necklace uses a polished ring connector and a suspended T-bar to create its Y-shaped drop. It also includes an extender, allowing you to adjust where it falls with different necklines.

Before leaving the house, check that the necklace lies flat and that the chain is not twisted. A quick adjustment usually helps the drop stay centered.

What Necklines Work Best With a Lariat Necklace?

Lariat necklaces are easy to style because their shape works with several common necklines.

·  V-necks: Let the drop follow the shape of the neckline.

·  Button-down shirts: Wear it inside an open collar with one or two buttons undone.

·  Scoop or square necklines: Position the drop clearly above or below the fabric edge.

·  High necklines: Choose a longer style and wear it over a fitted top or dress.

How to Style a Lariat Necklace

For an easy everyday outfit, wear a simple lariat with a T-shirt, jeans, and a blazer. It adds interest without making the outfit feel too dressed up.

For evening wear, choose a finer chain with diamonds or another small detail. The Diamond Cluster Lariat Necklace uses a fixed Y silhouette with five lab-grown diamonds and a delicate drop, making it easy to pair with a V-neck dress or simple camisole.

A lariat can also be layered, but give each necklace enough space. Pair it with a shorter chain or small pendant that sits near the collarbone. Avoid adding another long necklace at almost the same length, as the chains may overlap or tangle. If you prefer a softer look, a pearl lariat can bring more texture while keeping the same lengthening shape. OBY’s Pearl Lariat Chain Necklace offers a softer alternative to an all-metal or diamond style.

Can You Wear a Lariat Necklace Backward?

Some open-ended lariats can be worn backward with a low-back dress, allowing the drop to fall down the back. Check that the necklace looks finished from both sides and stays securely in place.

How to Choose a Lariat Necklace

Choose a loop-through lariat if you want to adjust the drop, or a fixed Y necklace if you prefer a consistent shape. Then consider where the necklace will sit with the necklines you wear most often.

Explore OBY’s necklace collection to discover lariat necklaces, pendant styles, and everyday chains.