Paperclip necklaces have been part of the luxury jewelry world for decades. What began as a powerful symbol of solidarity in Europe in the 1940s has evolved into a fashion staple, beloved by everyone from business professionals to celebrities for its classic yet modern aesthetic and endless versatility. Whether you’re shopping for your first luxury chain necklace or adding to your collection, you can’t go wrong with a paperclip chain.
What Is a Paperclip Necklace?
A paperclip necklace is a style of jewelry made from elongated oval or rectangular-shaped links, resembling the shape of a paperclip. Paperclip chains can be worn on their own, layered with other necklaces, or paired with pendants or charms, making them beautiful and versatile.
The Paperclip Chain Design
In addition to their popularity as necklaces, paperclip chains can be worn as bracelets or anklets. Since the design refers to the shape of the links rather than the thickness of the chain, the style has become a favorite for its versatility. Paperclip chains can be delicate for everyday wear or thick and bold, creating a perfect statement piece.
Paperclip chains have also become popular as a choice for permanent jewelry. From simple anklets to dainty bracelets, paperclip chains haven’t shown any sign of disappearing as a staple in the jewelry world.
What’s the Historical Significance of the Paperclip Necklace?
With only a quick glance, it’s easy to see the resemblance between these chains and the office supplies. Named for their similarity to the office staple, paperclip chains are inspired by the anti-Nazi movement of the 1940s, when Europeans, particularly in Norway, wore paperclips on their jackets or strung together as necklaces to silently express unity against Nazi occupation during World War II.
Why Paperclip Necklaces Are a Modern Jewelry Essential
Regardless of how you choose to style your jewelry, adding a paperclip chain to your jewelry box is a must. Paperclip necklaces are available in multiple metals, making them perfect to wear on their own or pair with your favorite matching bracelet. Paperclip chains can be bold and chunky, thin and dainty, and even paired with gemstone accents for added sparkle.
These oval link chains are a popular option for layering with other necklaces, such as chokers and pendants. The design allows for easy length adjustment by fastening the clasp to any link, offering versatility for pairing within a necklace stack.
Popular Styles of Paperclip Necklaces:
- Thin and dainty: Delicate, lightweight links are perfect for wearing on their own or layering with other styles.
- Chunky and bold: Larger, thicker links help the necklace make a statement on its own, making it a perfect accessory for adding drama to an outfit.
- Paired with pendants: Add charms to your paperclip chain for personalization.
- Different metals: Mix yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, or platinum paperclip chains for a modern look.
Paperclip Necklace Lengths and Fit Guide:
- Choker: Measuring 14-16”, this length necklace is designed to sit at the base of the neck. It’s a great choice for layering with longer chains or for those with petite frames.
- Princess: One of the most popular and versatile necklace lengths, this style measures 18” and is designed to sit on or just below the collarbone. This length is great for pendants and everyday wear.
- Matinee: At 20”, this length paperclip chain falls a few inches below the collarbone and is perfect for lower cut necklines or wearing over sweaters.
- Opera: Measuring 22-24”, these necklaces hit at or just below the bust line. They are a go-to for layering or for a bold yet casual look.
- Rope: Considered extra-long, paperclip necklaces measuring between 32-40” can be left to hang dramatically or wrapped for an instant layered look.
How to Style a Paperclip Necklace
Paperclip chains are known for being versatile, making them one of the easiest necklaces to style. For a casual outfit, pair a simple paperclip necklace with a T-shirt and jeans or sundress, or add one or two necklaces of different lengths to create a layered style for a dressier look. Layering gold and silver paperclip chains creates a mixed-metal look that is both casual and fun.
For formal attire, opt for a paperclip chain with diamond or gemstone accents. Depending on the thickness of the chain and level of sparkle, you can style your necklace to play a supporting role in your outfit or serve as the main focal point. To create a cohesive look with your accessories, pair a paperclip necklace with a bracelet in the same paperclip chain style, preferably in the same metal and thickness.
How to Style a Paperclip Necklace for Everyday Wear
Paperclip necklaces are great for everyday wear, whether worn alone or layered for different looks centered around a single chain. If you’re adding to your jewelry box and want to add a paperclip necklace to your collection, we recommend starting with a princess length in a medium-weight thickness. At 18”, it can be worn at full length or shortened by clipping the clasp to make it shorter for added versatility.
Layering Paperclip Necklaces with Other Chains
Thanks to their adaptability, paperclip necklaces create an ideal base for layering. Pair a shorter paperclip chain with a pendant necklace, or style a longer paperclip chain with a gemstone choker. The variety of links, metals, and pendant accents allows paperclip chains to offer nearly limitless layering options, suitable for daily wear or special occasions.
Tips for Choosing a High-Quality Paperclip Necklace
- Tip 1: Choose quality metals such as solid gold, platinum, or sterling silver rather than plated options for durability, especially for daily wear.
- Tip 2: Look for smooth, polished edges for comfortable wear that won’t snag on clothes or other necklaces.
- Tip 3: If you plan to wear your chain regularly, avoid pieces with hollow links, as they may bend and break easily.
- Tip 4: Opt for lobster claw or toggle clasps over spring rings, as they are known to be more durable.
When it comes to versatility and beauty, paperclip necklaces have cemented themselves as a must-have for every jewelry box. Whether you’re looking for a staple to wear every day, an elegant accessory for a night of high fashion, or the perfect foundation to create a layered necklace stack, you can’t go wrong with a paperclip chain necklace.
