What is a lariat necklace?
A lariat necklace is a long, open-ended necklace that doesn’t close with a traditional clasp. Instead, the chain forms a “Y” shape down the front, with one or both ends hanging loose, looping, or threading through a ring or pendant at the center. The dangling drop is the signature it draws the eye vertically down the neckline and elongates the whole upper body.
You’ll also hear it called a Y-necklace or a drop necklace. The classic lariat threads one end through a loop so the drop adjusts in length; modern versions fix the Y in place for an effortless, no-fuss version of the same look.
See the shape in action across the lariat necklaces collection.
Why the lariat is so flattering
The lariat works on nearly everyone for one simple reason: that central vertical line is naturally lengthening. It creates the illusion of a longer neck and a leaner torso, and it fills the open space of a low or wide neckline beautifully. It’s a little more fashion-forward than a basic pendant, but still completely wearable day-to-day.
How to wear a lariat necklace
There’s more flexibility here than with a clasped necklace:
Wear it long and loose. The simplest way let the Y drop straight down the center for an elegant, elongating line. Perfect over a deep V-neck, a button-down, or a blazer.
Adjust the drop. If your lariat threads through a loop, slide the drop shorter for daytime and longer for evening. One necklace, multiple lengths.
Loop or knot it. A loose knot at the center shortens the necklace and adds texture — great for a more casual, undone vibe.
Wrap it (for long styles). Extra-long lariats can be doubled around the neck so the drop sits higher, turning one piece into a layered look on its own.
Best necklines for a lariat
The lariat loves open space:
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V-necks and deep scoops - the Y mirrors the neckline and finishes it perfectly.
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Button-downs and collared shirts - let the drop fall over the open collar.
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Strapless and off-the-shoulder - he vertical line balances all that horizontal skin.
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Backless dresses - some lariats can even be worn down the back for a showstopping moment.
It’s the rare necklace that can struggle with a high crewneck, so save those for a shorter pendant instead.
How to layer a lariat necklace
Layering is where the lariat really shines. The key is contrast in length and weight:
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Anchor with the lariat as your longest layer.
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Add a shorter dainty chain or a choker-length necklace above it so the eye reads two distinct lines.
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Optionally add a mid-length pendant in between for a three-tier stack.
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Keep the metals consistent (all gold or all silver) unless you’re deliberately going for a mixed-metal look.
Shop pieces made to stack on the layered necklaces collection, and for the full method — spacing, lengths, and avoiding tangles — read our necklace layering style guide. Want to understand every necklace length and shape first? Our ultimate guide to necklaces covers it all.
Dress it up, dress it down
The same lariat carries from a coffee run to a dinner reservation:
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Daytime: lariat over a plain tee or a knit, drop kept short and simple.
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Workwear: lariat over a silk blouse or under a blazer for a polished, vertical line.
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Evening: longer drop, a gemstone or pearl detail, paired with statement earrings.
Will it tarnish? Choosing a lariat that lasts
Because a lariat sits against your skin and moves all day, you want a chain that won’t kink, fade, or tarnish. Evry’s lariats are made from waterproof, anti-tarnish 18k-gold-plated and stainless materials, so they keep their shine through workouts, weather, and water. If longevity matters to you (it should), the waterproof jewelry collection is the place to start.
Frequently asked questions
What is a lariat necklace? A lariat is a long, clasp-free necklace that forms a Y-shape down the front, with a dangling drop at the center. It’s also called a Y-necklace or drop necklace.
How do you wear a lariat necklace? Let it hang straight for an elongating line, adjust the drop length if it threads through a loop, knot it for a casual look, or layer it as your longest necklace over a shorter chain.
What is the difference between a lariat and a Y-necklace? They’re essentially the same thing. “Lariat” traditionally refers to the adjustable, threaded style, while “Y-necklace” describes any necklace that forms a Y — the terms are used interchangeably today.
What neckline works best with a lariat necklace? Open necklines: V-necks, scoop necks, button-downs, and strapless or off-the-shoulder tops. The vertical drop fills and flatters the open space.
Can you layer a lariat necklace? Absolutely. Use it as your longest layer and add one or two shorter chains above it, keeping the metals consistent for a clean, intentional stack.
Shop lariat necklaces
Find your drop in the lariat necklaces collection, then build your stack with layered necklaces all waterproof, anti-tarnish, and made to be worn Evryday.
