Lack of accessories can make an outfit appear “incomplete.” Too many accessories, on the other hand, can completely overwhelm. When it comes to accessorizing, how much is too much? How much is too little? This is a vexing question which can only be answered by YOU after considering your style and your comfort level.

Designer Coco Chanel may well have been the first to show us how to layer our pearls. But Coco also said:

“To add, or not to add?”

Notice, pearls are not layered perfectly.

The key to layering is to vary the length of your necklaces to add visual interest and texture.

If this classic look isn’t quite your style, consider smaller necklaces like these, which are all the rage for the Boho look:

There don’t seem to be any real rules for layering necklaces. You can place heavier pieces on top and more delicate pieces below–or vice versa.  (All photos here from the Sundance catalog.)

Notice how they all fall at different lengths.

Do you have necklaces in your jewelry box that you could layer? It’s fun to take a few minutes and try on pieces you’ve never worn together (that goes for clothes, too).

Just look in your full-length mirror. If you seem to have on too many, just remove one. Votre Chois (your choice). You get to choose based on your style and your comfort level, and the occasion for which you are dressing.

Some gals just have a knack for accessorizing–like Iris Apfel (above). And our lovely friend, Diane. All it takes is a little experimentation.

What’s your style when it comes to accessorizing?