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Esquire published a men’s style guide that recommends beginning with a simple chain and wearing it in a way that feels comfortable, rather than piling on jewelry. The article also discusses pendants and medallions, drawing on examples from classic Hollywood style; it does not establish that one approach works for everyone.
Esquire has published a guide to wearing men’s necklaces, recommending that readers begin with a simple chain before experimenting with pendants or more elaborate combinations. The advice is a personal style perspective, not a universal rule: the article draws on examples of Hollywood actors and the writer’s own shopping and wearing experience.
The writer says a necklace was a newer addition to his interest in men’s jewelry. Looking through photographs of Robert Redford, Steve McQueen and Paul Newman, he noticed that necklaces and chains appeared often in their off-duty looks. He uses those examples as inspiration, while cautioning that an accessory cannot reproduce a celebrity’s appearance or guarantee a particular effect.
The guide’s first practical recommendation is to start with a chain rather than several pieces at once. The writer describes wearing a sterling-silver curb chain and mentions Cuban-link chains as another option. He advises readers not to get caught up at the outset in technical details such as link style, thickness and clasps, and instead to choose something they like.
For styling, the article says a chain can sit under a T-shirt or be worn with an open shirt, depending on the wearer’s preference. It then suggests adding a pendant or medallion for those who want more detail. Examples include Steve McQueen’s St. Christopher medallion and other vintage or newly made pieces. The source also notes that Esquire’s product links may earn the publication a commission.
A Lower-Key Start to Men’s Jewelry
The guide offers readers a manageable entry point into an accessory that can feel less familiar than a watch or ring. Its central idea is that one chain can be enough to begin; people do not need to adopt a maximalist look or buy several pieces at once. That can make trying a necklace a more personal and gradual choice.
The article also separates style inspiration from promises. Redford and McQueen provide examples of how necklaces appeared in their wardrobes, but the writer explicitly rejects the idea that a piece of jewelry can confer celebrity looks. The advice is best read as one editor’s styling guidance, rather than evidence that a particular chain, length or material is right for everyone.
Readers considering a purchase should also note the commercial disclosure: the source says Esquire may earn a commission from product links. The article names brands and products, but its recommendations reflect the writer’s preferences and reported experience, not an independent finding that one item is best for all buyers.
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From Hollywood Chains to Everyday Wear
The writer frames the article around a personal progression through men’s jewelry: a watch, bracelet, rings and an earring, followed by curiosity about necklaces. While researching Robert Redford’s style for another project, he noticed necklaces in photographs and film stills, then looked at other actors from Hollywood’s earlier era.
Those observations lead to the guide’s two main suggestions: keep the first choice simple, then consider a pendant if desired. The source lists examples from several brands and mentions vintage medallions, including St. Christopher designs traditionally associated with travelers. These references are illustrations and shopping suggestions, not claims that the styles are new or broadly adopted.
““So start simple and start with a chain.””
— Esquire writer
Personal Advice, Not a Universal Fit
The source is a style article based on the writer’s own experience and interpretation of celebrity photographs. It does not report research comparing necklace styles or establish which lengths, materials or designs work best across different people and outfits. The writer’s preferred chain length and brands are personal examples, not general standards.
The supplied source text ends partway through a discussion of secondhand gold, so its full account of that section is not available here. It is also unclear from the source when every named item is in stock or what current prices are. The article’s commission disclosure applies to product links, but does not specify the commission on any particular purchase.
Choose a Chain Before Adding More
The article does not announce a follow-up, launch or scheduled event. Its practical next step for readers is to choose a simple chain, try it with clothes they already wear and decide whether they prefer it visible or under a shirt. Those who want more detail can then consider a pendant or medallion.
Before buying, readers can check the current price, materials, chain length and return terms with the seller; product availability may change. The guide offers a starting point, while the choice of whether to wear a necklace—and what kind—is left to the individual.
Key Questions
What does the guide recommend for someone new to necklaces?
It recommends starting with a simple chain rather than buying several pieces or layering necklaces immediately.
Should a necklace be worn over or under a shirt?
The writer says a chain under a T-shirt is one option and suggests showing it with an open shirt. The article presents this as styling advice, not a rule.
Does the article recommend adding a pendant?
It suggests trying a pendant or medallion after starting with a chain, if that suits the wearer’s taste.
Are the named products independent recommendations?
The article includes the writer’s product preferences and says Esquire may earn a commission from links. The source does not establish that its listed products are the best choice for every buyer.
Source: esquire.com
