Types of Choker Necklaces
What is a Choker Necklace?
A choker necklace is a close-fitting necklace worn around the neck, typically snug against the skin. Unlike longer necklaces that hang down to the chest or beyond, chokers sit high on the neck, accentuating the collarbone and neckline. The simplicity and elegance of chokers have made them a timeless accessory that can complement a wide range of outfits, from casual to formal.
History of Choker Necklaces
Choker necklaces have a rich history dating back thousands of years. They were worn by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Sumerians, and Native Americans. In the 18th century, chokers became a symbol of sophistication in European fashion, often worn by royalty and aristocrats. The style re-emerged in the 1990s as a fashion staple during the grunge era and has since become a popular accessory in contemporary fashion.
Popularity in Modern Fashion
Choker necklaces have experienced several revivals in modern fashion, most notably in the 1990s and the 2010s. Today, they are a must-have accessory in many wardrobes, embraced by fashion icons, celebrities, and everyday style enthusiasts. Their versatility and ability to adapt to various fashion trends have kept them relevant across different eras and continue to make them a popular choice for all age groups.
Types of Choker Necklaces
Choker necklaces come in a variety of styles, materials, and designs, allowing for endless possibilities in accessorizing. Below is an overview of the different types of choker necklaces that cater to diverse fashion tastes and preferences.
1. Classic Velvet Chokers
Overview
Classic velvet chokers are perhaps the most well-known type of choker necklace. They are typically made from soft velvet material and can vary in width. The rich texture of velvet adds a luxurious touch to the necklace, making it a favorite for both casual and formal occasions.
Variations
- Thin Velvet Chokers: These chokers are narrow and delicate, often paired with small pendants or charms for a minimalist look.
- Wide Velvet Chokers: Wider versions offer a bolder statement and are usually worn alone to highlight their rich texture.
Popularity
Velvet chokers were particularly popular during the 1990s, and they have seen a resurgence in recent years, becoming a staple in both retro and contemporary fashion.
2. Lace Chokers
Overview
Lace chokers are feminine and elegant, often associated with romantic and vintage-inspired looks. They are typically made from delicate lace material and may be adorned with beads, pearls, or small gemstones.
Variations
- Victorian Lace Chokers: Inspired by the Victorian era, these chokers often feature intricate lace patterns and embellishments like cameos or pearls.
- Gothic Lace Chokers: These chokers have a darker, more dramatic look, often incorporating black lace and elements like crosses, spikes, or skulls.
Popularity
Lace chokers are popular for special occasions such as weddings or formal events, where their delicate and intricate designs can complement elegant outfits.
3. Leather Chokers
Overview
Leather chokers offer a bold, edgy look that is perfect for those who want to make a statement. They are typically made from genuine or faux leather and can vary in thickness and style.
Variations
- Simple Leather Bands: These are minimalist in design, featuring a single band of leather around the neck. They are often unadorned or may feature a small charm or pendant.
- Studded Leather Chokers: These chokers add an extra layer of edginess with studs, spikes, or metal accents, making them a popular choice in punk and rock fashion.
Popularity
Leather chokers are a favorite in alternative fashion circles and are often worn to concerts, festivals, or as part of a streetwear ensemble.
4. Chain Chokers
Overview
Chain chokers are versatile and can range from delicate, dainty designs to bold, chunky pieces. They are typically made from metal and can be worn alone or layered with other necklaces.
Variations
- Gold Chain Chokers: These chokers are made from gold or gold-plated metal, offering a touch of luxury and elegance.
- Silver Chain Chokers: Silver versions are equally popular and are often chosen for their understated, modern appeal.
- Chunky Chain Chokers: These chokers feature larger, heavier links and are designed to make a bold fashion statement.
Popularity
Chain chokers are popular for their versatility and can be worn with both casual and formal outfits. They are often seen in high fashion as well as everyday street style.
5. Pearl Chokers
Overview
Pearl chokers exude sophistication and class. They are typically made from real or faux pearls and can be worn for both day and evening wear. The timeless appeal of pearls makes these chokers a favorite for those seeking a classic, elegant look.
Variations
- Single-Strand Pearl Chokers: These chokers feature a single strand of pearls, offering a simple yet elegant look.
- Multi-Strand Pearl Chokers: For a more opulent style, multi-strand pearl chokers offer a fuller, more luxurious appearance.
- Mixed Material Pearl Chokers: Some designs combine pearls with other materials like gold or silver chains, adding a modern twist to the classic pearl choker.
Popularity
Pearl chokers are often worn at formal events, such as galas, weddings, and cocktail parties, where their elegance and sophistication can truly shine.
6. Beaded Chokers
Overview
Beaded chokers are colorful and playful, often made from an assortment of beads, including glass, wood, or plastic. They are popular in bohemian and festival fashion, where vibrant, eclectic styles are celebrated.
Variations
- Glass Bead Chokers: These chokers feature intricate glass beads, often in vibrant colors or patterns.
- Wooden Bead Chokers: For a more earthy, natural look, wooden bead chokers are a popular choice.
- Seed Bead Chokers: These chokers are made from tiny seed beads, often woven into intricate patterns or designs.
Popularity
Beaded chokers are a favorite for casual wear, especially during the summer months or at music festivals, where their bright colors and playful designs fit the laid-back vibe.
7. Tattoo Chokers
Overview
Tattoo chokers are stretchy, flexible necklaces that became popular in the 1990s and have seen a resurgence in recent years. They are made from a thin, elastic material woven into a tight, interlocking pattern that resembles a tattoo when worn.
Variations
- Classic Black Tattoo Chokers: The most common version, featuring a simple black elastic material.
- Colored Tattoo Chokers: These chokers come in various colors, allowing for more personalization and style variation.
- Embellished Tattoo Chokers: Some designs feature small charms, beads, or pendants attached to the classic tattoo choker.
Popularity
Tattoo chokers are particularly popular among younger generations and are often worn as part of a retro or 90s-inspired outfit.
8. Ribbon Chokers
Overview
Ribbon chokers are simple yet elegant, made from various types of ribbon such as satin, grosgrain, or organza. They can be tied at the back of the neck or fastened with a clasp.
Variations
- Satin Ribbon Chokers: These chokers offer a smooth, shiny finish, making them perfect for both casual and formal wear.
- Grosgrain Ribbon Chokers: Grosgrain ribbons have a ribbed texture, adding a bit more dimension and interest to the choker.
- Organza Ribbon Chokers: Organza is sheer and delicate, giving the choker a light, ethereal appearance.
Popularity
Ribbon chokers are popular for their simplicity and versatility, often worn with dresses or blouses to add a touch of femininity to the outfit.
9. Pendant Chokers
Overview
Pendant chokers feature a central pendant or charm that hangs from the choker, adding a focal point to the necklace. The pendant can vary in size, shape, and material, making this type of choker highly customizable.
Variations
- Gemstone Pendant Chokers: These chokers feature a gemstone as the central pendant, adding a touch of color and elegance.
- Symbolic Pendant Chokers: Common pendants include symbols such as hearts, crosses, stars, or initials, allowing for personal expression.
- Artisan Pendant Chokers: Handmade pendants, often crafted from unique materials like clay, glass, or wood, give these chokers a one-of-a-kind appeal.
Popularity
Pendant chokers are popular for their ability to be personalized and are often chosen to represent something meaningful to the wearer, making them a thoughtful gift option as well.
10. Charm Chokers
Overview
Charm chokers are adorned with multiple small charms that hang along the length of the choker. These charms can vary in design, allowing for a highly personalized piece of jewelry.
Variations
- Thematic Charm Chokers: These chokers feature charms based on a particular theme, such as nature, travel, or spirituality.
- Mixed Material Charm Chokers: Charms made from different materials like metal, glass, and enamel are combined to create a visually interesting piece.
- Custom Charm Chokers: Personalized charms, such as initials or symbols that hold special significance, can be added to create a custom piece.
Popularity
Charm chokers are popular for their playful and personalized nature, making them a favorite for those who enjoy mixing and matching different elements to create a unique look.
11. Crystal Chokers
Overview
Crystal chokers are made from either real or synthetic crystals, often associated with healing properties or spiritual significance. They add a touch of sparkle and mystique to any outfit.
Variations
- Healing Crystal Chokers: These chokers feature specific crystals known for their healing properties, such as amethyst, rose quartz, or citrine.
- Faceted Crystal Chokers: The crystals are cut into faceted shapes, catching the light and adding a bit of glamour to the choker.
- Raw Crystal Chokers: These chokers feature uncut, raw crystals for a more natural and earthy look.
Popularity
Crystal chokers are popular in bohemian and spiritual fashion, often worn for their believed benefits as well as their aesthetic appeal.
12. Metal Plate Chokers
Overview
Metal plate chokers are bold and modern, featuring a flat metal plate that sits against the neck. They are often made from gold, silver, or stainless steel and can be plain or engraved with designs.
Variations
- Engraved Metal Plate Chokers: These chokers feature engraved designs or words, adding a personalized touch.
- Plain Metal Plate Chokers: Sleek and minimalist, these chokers are often polished to a high shine for a modern, sophisticated look.
- Textured Metal Plate Chokers: The metal plate may be hammered or embossed, adding texture and interest to the design.
Popularity
Metal plate chokers are favored in contemporary fashion for their sleek and bold appearance, often worn to make a statement with simple, modern outfits.
13. Fabric Chokers
Overview
Fabric chokers are made from various types of fabric, offering a wide range of textures, colors, and patterns. They are comfortable to wear and can be easily matched with different outfits.
Variations
- Printed Fabric Chokers: These chokers feature colorful prints or patterns, adding a playful element to the accessory.
- Knitted or Crocheted Chokers: Handcrafted from yarn, these chokers offer a cozy, artisanal feel.
- Denim Chokers: Made from denim fabric, these chokers add a casual, rugged vibe to any outfit.
Popularity
Fabric chokers are popular for their comfort and versatility, often worn as part of a casual or bohemian-inspired look.
14. Resin Chokers
Overview
Resin chokers are made from resin, a versatile material that can be molded into various shapes and infused with different colors, patterns, or even objects. These chokers are unique and often feature eye-catching designs.
Variations
- Embedded Object Resin Chokers: Small objects, such as flowers, glitter, or beads, are embedded within the resin, creating a unique and personalized piece.
- Colored Resin Chokers: These chokers are available in a variety of vibrant colors and can be either translucent or opaque.
- Marbled Resin Chokers: The resin is swirled with different colors to create a marbled effect, adding depth and visual interest.
Popularity
Resin chokers are popular among those who enjoy bold, unique accessories that stand out. They are often worn as statement pieces with simple outfits.
15. Boho Chokers
Overview
Boho (bohemian) chokers are inspired by bohemian fashion, characterized by earthy tones, natural materials, and eclectic designs. These chokers often feature beads, feathers, tassels, and other natural elements.
Variations
- Feathered Boho Chokers: Feathers are incorporated into the design, adding a light, airy feel.
- Beaded Boho Chokers: These chokers feature a mix of beads, often in earthy colors or with tribal patterns.
- Tassel Boho Chokers: Tassels made from threads, leather, or other materials hang from the choker, adding movement and texture.
Popularity
Boho chokers are popular for festival wear, summer outfits, and casual, laid-back styles. They are often worn with flowy dresses, fringed jackets, or layered with other necklaces.
16. Gold Plated Chokers
Overview
Gold plated chokers are made from a base metal coated with a thin layer of gold. They offer the luxurious look of gold without the high cost, making them accessible yet elegant.
Variations
- Thin Gold Plated Bands: Simple, delicate bands that offer a minimalist look.
- Engraved Gold Plated Chokers: Chokers with engraved designs or personalized messages.
- Layered Gold Plated Chokers: Multiple gold plated chokers worn together to create a layered, luxurious look.
Popularity
Gold plated chokers are popular for their elegance and affordability, often chosen for both everyday wear and special occasions.
17. Nameplate Chokers
Overview
Nameplate chokers are personalized chokers featuring the wearer’s name, initials, or a meaningful word. They are a modern twist on the classic nameplate necklace, worn close to the neck.
Variations
- Script Font Nameplate Chokers: The name or word is written in a flowing, script font for a delicate and feminine look.
- Block Font Nameplate Chokers: A bolder option with the name or word in a block font, offering a more modern and edgy appearance.
- Custom Nameplate Chokers: Fully customizable with different fonts, materials, and finishes, allowing for a truly unique piece.
Popularity
Nameplate chokers are popular for their personalization, often worn as a statement of identity or as a sentimental gift.
18. Collar Chokers
Overview
Collar chokers are wider chokers that cover more of the neck, often resembling the appearance of a collar. They can be made from various materials, including leather, metal, and fabric, and are designed to be bold and eye-catching.
Variations
- Leather Collar Chokers: A thicker band of leather that sits high on the neck, offering a bold, edgy look.
- Metal Collar Chokers: These chokers are made from metal and may feature cut-out designs or be molded to fit the contours of the neck.
- Fabric Collar Chokers: A softer, more comfortable option made from wide strips of fabric that wrap around the neck.
Popularity
Collar chokers are popular for making a bold statement, often worn with high fashion outfits or as part of a chic, minimalist ensemble.
19. Gothic Chokers
Overview
Gothic chokers are inspired by Gothic fashion, characterized by dark colors, ornate designs, and often dramatic elements such as spikes, crosses, or lace. They offer a striking and bold look, often associated with alternative subcultures.
Variations
- Spiked Gothic Chokers: Featuring metal spikes or studs, these chokers add an aggressive, edgy element.
- Cross Gothic Chokers: Incorporating crosses or other religious symbols, these chokers have a spiritual and darkly romantic appeal.
- Lace Gothic Chokers: Combining the delicacy of lace with Gothic elements such as black stones or dark metal.
Popularity
Gothic chokers are popular in alternative fashion and subcultures, often worn with dark, dramatic clothing and makeup.
20. Industrial Chokers
Overview
Industrial chokers are made from materials like rubber, metal, or thick chains, offering a rugged, utilitarian look. These chokers often feature industrial design elements such as buckles, screws, or heavy-duty clasps.
Variations
- Rubber Industrial Chokers: Made from thick rubber, often with metal accents, for a bold, futuristic look.
- Chain Industrial Chokers: Heavy, chunky chains with a utilitarian feel, often worn as statement pieces.
- Mixed Material Industrial Chokers: Combining materials like metal and leather, these chokers have a layered, textured look.
Popularity
Industrial chokers are popular in streetwear and avant-garde fashion, often worn by those who appreciate bold, unconventional accessories.