Chokin’ Around: How to Wear a Choker

It’s time to dust the body glitter off your spaghetti-strap slip dresses, crop tops and washed denim; the 90s revolution is well and truly upon us. The 90s has been rehashed by way of beauty and fashion, but perhaps the most noteworthy trend is the choker, now ubiquitous on every catwalk and corner. Perhaps its success is in part due to its versatility; an item which can be taken from sunrise to sunset, in a multitude of textures, materials and sizes, the variables are endless. And you look like a cool cat wearing it.

A reinvented twist on the 90s tattooed variety (which too has made a comeback for the younger generation), chokers add instant sartorial standing to any outfit. Time to tie up those necks and in the words of Clueless’s Cher, repeat: “I’m more fabulous than 5 minutes ago…”

Ribbon Ready

The staple choker; black, thick and ribbon-like, this is for the high-fashion fillies who look like they’ve just stepped out of Fashion Week. Pair with either theatrical silhouettes or uber chic, monochromatic ensembles, and for extra fashion cred, tuck your tresses in and bunch up hair for the ultimate street style savvy.

Sparkle Sparkle

For an injection of high-octane glamour, twinkle your way through a crowd with a glittery neckline. Either reference notes of Old Hollywood and pair with a gown, or play it down with frayed denim and a tonal tee. Makeup should be in keeping with your bejeweled neck; think fluttery lashes and dabs of glitter.

Fancy Pants

To add a little pizzazz to a plain outfit, drape your décolletage with an adorned choker. Think vintage-inspired pieces; art deco, chain-linked, coined, irregular and more, perfect for retro ensembles and bohemian vibes. Go off the (beauty) beaten track a little, and play with pink swept lids or chunky coloured liner.

Gilded in Gold

One for the glam gang, think Cleopatra meets Kim K. Perfect for Red Carpet ventures and nights out on the town, this statement neckline will jazz up any ol’ frock. Mirror you makeup with glitzy overtones; a winged line and copper for eyes pared down with a nude lip. Go for gold.

Fine and Dandy

A perfect entry level choker for the fashion fainthearted. Build up your choker confidence and try this simple, modest take for day, opting for a classic colour. Beauty too should be minimal with model-off-duty vibes. Good things come in small packages after all.

Futuristic Fervour

Fashion bravery beckons with this futuristic take on the choker, as perspex and mod materials take centre stage. Pair this plastic fantastic variation with 90s beauty and add a swipe of gloss across lids and cheeks in pearlescent, icy hues.

Double Trouble Choker

Layering has long been a trend for the fashionable folk, time to apply this to your décolletage, by layering up two chokers in tandem. Either go for a same-same look, or mix it up by integrating different textures and fabrications. Mix your makeup too; fool around with a smoky eye using different colours and tones.