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Esquire published a men’s necklace guide built around a gradual approach: try a chain first, then add a pendant or medallion if desired. The report draws on examples from actors including Robert Redford and Steve McQueen, but its styling advice is editorial guidance, not a guarantee of any particular look or outcome.
Esquire has published a men’s necklace guide that advises readers to begin with one simple chain and add a pendant only if it suits their taste. The piece uses photographs of actors including Robert Redford and Steve McQueen as style references, while stressing that a necklace is an accessory, not a shortcut to looking like a movie star.
The writer describes necklaces as a new addition to his own jewelry choices, after wearing a watch, bracelet, ring and earring. Looking through photographs of Redford, the writer noticed that the actor often wore a necklace, sometimes visible beneath an open western shirt. The article also points to Steve McQueen and Paul Newman as examples of actors who wore chains or pendants on and off screen.
The guide’s first recommendation is to start with a chain rather than combining several pieces at once. It names curb and Cuban chains as examples, and mentions products from Bloedstone, Miansai, Mejuri, Shinola and David Yurman. These are selections from the article, not an independent comparison of the full market. The writer says his sterling silver Bloedstone curb chain sits closer to the sternum, but presents that length as a personal preference rather than a rule.
For styling, the writer favors wearing a chain under a T-shirt, or showing it with an open shirt. Readers can choose a different approach; the piece frames its suggestions as guidance rather than requirements. Its next step is to consider a pendant or medallion. The article highlights St. Christopher medals, which have a traditional association with protection for travelers, and mentions a Perseverance medallion from Yearly Co. The writer also points to secondhand options from Alloy Market.
A Lower-Pressure Way to Try Jewelry
The advice offers a practical entry point for readers curious about necklaces but unsure how to wear one: choose a single chain, see how it feels with clothes already in the wardrobe, and decide later whether to add a pendant. That approach avoids treating a trend or a celebrity look as a requirement.
The article also makes clear that its recommendations reflect personal styling judgment. It includes named brands and products, and Esquire discloses that it may earn a commission from links. Readers should distinguish that shopping advice from a neutral assessment of every available necklace. Price, materials, fit and durability will vary by item and seller.
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From Hollywood References to Everyday Wear
The writer’s starting point is a review of photographs of classic Hollywood actors, especially Redford wearing necklaces beneath open shirts. The piece then turns those visual references into accessible suggestions for everyday dressing. Its central message is not to copy a particular actor exactly, but to use a restrained look as a starting point.
Esquire also places the guide within a broader interest in men’s jewelry, noting that chains, rings and other accessories appear in contemporary fashion. The article contrasts a simple first purchase with more layered styling seen on social media, but offers no survey data or broader evidence about how common either approach is. Its recommendations remain editorial style advice, supported by the writer’s observations and personal experience.
““So start simple and start with a chain.””
— Esquire writer
Fit, Cost and Personal Preference
The source does not establish a universally suitable chain length, thickness or material, and it does not compare the named products through a consistent test. The writer explicitly says readers need not worry about link terminology at the outset and can choose what appeals to them.
Prices, availability and product specifications may change. The excerpt also ends as it begins discussing Alloy Market, so it does not provide a full account of that retailer’s selection. Readers should check current listings and seller details before buying. No evidence is provided that wearing a necklace changes how others perceive the wearer.
Choose a Chain, Then Decide
The guide offers no scheduled follow-up or product launch. Its practical next step for readers is to compare chains by material, length, thickness and budget, then try one with familiar outfits. If a plain chain feels right, a pendant or medallion can be considered later; if not, there is no need to add one.
Because the article includes shopping links and discloses possible commissions, readers can also compare prices and product information across sellers before purchasing. The source does not say when its recommendations will next be updated.
Key Questions
What is the guide’s main advice for wearing a necklace?
Esquire recommends starting with one simple chain and adding a pendant only if desired. It presents this as a personal styling suggestion, not a strict rule.
Should a chain be worn over or under a T-shirt?
The writer prefers wearing a chain under a T-shirt, or showing it with an open shirt. The article acknowledges that people can choose another style.
Which necklace styles and brands does the article mention?
It discusses curb and Cuban chains and names Bloedstone, Miansai, Mejuri, Shinola and David Yurman. For pendants, it highlights St. Christopher medallions and mentions Yearly Co. and Alloy Market.
Does the article recommend a specific chain length?
No universal length is prescribed. The writer describes his own chain as sitting closer to the sternum, but says readers can choose what works for them.
Does Esquire earn money from the products it links?
The source says Esquire may earn a commission from links. The named products are editorial selections, and the disclosure does not amount to an independent review of every necklace on the market.
Source: esquire.com
