Lariat and Y-Necklaces: What They Are and How to Wear Them

Sterling silver cushion halo pendant necklace with a 2ct moissanite centre stone on a delicate box chain.

Lariat and Y-necklaces from our collection

The Y-necklace — that elegant central drop that lengthens the neckline — is having a real moment again. It sits beautifully with the layered-necklace trend and flatters almost everyone. Here's what these necklaces are, and how to wear the drop.

Lariat vs Y-necklace: the difference

The two terms overlap, and both create that flattering vertical line down the centre. A Y-necklace is built in a fixed Y-shape: a chain that meets at a central point with a pendant or drop hanging below, like our Moissanite Drop Y-Necklace. A lariat is technically open-ended — a long strand with decorative ends that loops, knots or threads through itself to form the drop, giving a softer, more adjustable line. In everyday use, both are loved for the same reason: the elongating central drop.

Why it's so flattering

That vertical line draws the eye downward, which lengthens the neck and torso and slims the overall silhouette — the same reason a V-neckline is flattering. It's one of the most universally suiting necklace shapes there is.

How to wear it

A Y-necklace loves an open neckline — a V-neck, scoop, shirt or strapless top — where the drop has room to sit against skin rather than fabric. For evening, a sparkling drop like the Cushion Cut Drop Necklace makes an elegant statement worn alone. For daytime, a motif lariat such as the Moissanite Butterfly Lariat adds personality. You can layer a Y-necklace over a shorter, simple chain for on-trend depth — just keep the shorter piece dainty so the drop stays the star.

The short version

Y-necklaces and lariats both create a flattering central drop that lengthens the neckline. Wear them with open necklines, let the drop sit against skin, and layer over a dainty shorter chain if you want the stacked look. Elegant solo, easy to style, and suits almost everyone.

Y-necklaces and lariats are a favourite 2026 layering piece — see them alongside this year's other trends in our Jewellery Trends 2026 guide.