What is a Curb Chain?
Just as Cuban chains and rope chains have their own particular link style, so do curb chains. Curb chain links are twisted so that they lie flat, which offers other benefits. First, it creates a sleek and fluid look. Second, it makes them much less likely to twist or kink, which can be a big hassle with other chain styles.Curb chains can have either squared or rounded edges, depending on the design. Curb chain links are not as tightly packed as the links on a Cuban chain. This gives them a more geometric, less dense look and allows each link to shine. Curb chains come in a wide variety of colors and lengths, and can be made from plenty of different materials, including gold, silver, and stainless steel. We recommend stainless steel–and we’ll tell you why in just a bit.
How to Style a Stainless Steel Curb Chain?
So you’d like to invest in your very own stainless steel curb chain, but where should you start? With so many curb chain lengths, styles, and colors out there, it can be tough to decide. Thankfully, we’re men’s jewelry experts, and we have a few tips to help you make sure you find the best chain for your needs and your taste.Choose the Optimal Length and Thickness
Men’s chains come in a huge range of lengths and thicknesses (also called ‘gauges’). Each offers its own benefits depending on what look you’re going for.Shorter and thinner chains are great if you’re seeking an understated, yet still eye-catching effect. They have a sleek and refined look that’s easy to pair with anything, but is especially suited for business casual or formal looks. They’re also ideal layering pieces for a necklace stack, as they won’t overwhelm or clutter the stack by drawing attention away from the other pieces. This helps maintain the stack’s cohesive, curated effect.
Medium length chains are fantastic for both layered stacks and solo wear. They strike a balance between the bold impact of a longer chain and the subtlety of a shorter chain. They’re essential for layering, too, as varied lengths add depth and dimension to the stack. Longer and thicker chains tend to have a bold and head-turning impact. They make excellent statement pieces, either when worn by themselves or as part of a stack. They’re likely to draw the most attention of any of your accessories.
Choose Your Clasp Type
The two most common types of clasps used in curb chains are the lobster clasp and the box clasp. Lobster clasps are probably what you think of when you think of a standard necklace or chain. They earned their name because their hooks resemble lobster claws. You open and close them by pressing and releasing a ‘trigger,’ which is a tiny arm that juts off of the clasp. These clasps are simple and secure, making them great for everyday wear.Box clasps have a tab on one side and a small box on the other. The tab slots into the box, and the two pieces click together to secure the chain. Box clasps are great for heavier, thicker curb chains. They are also easy to fasten, and may even be easier than other clasps if you have thicker fingers.
Choose Your Finish
Most chains, whether they’re curb chains or another style, come in one of two finishes: matte or polished. Matte finishes render the surface of the chain non-reflective (or minimally reflective). It’s sometimes described as giving a ‘flat’ appearance. Matte finishes are popular among guys who want a subtler look. They’re a great fit for casual or minimalist looks.Polished finishes amplify the metal’s natural reflective surface. They increase its reflectiveness to give it a mirror-like, sleek, shiny appearance. It adds a classy, luxurious element to the chain that makes it ideal for pairing with dressy outfits. Polished finishes are also perfect for guys who want their jewelry to stand out a bit more and make an instant impression.
Wear it With Style
One of the best things about a curb chain is its versatility. They can be styled to suit any outfit; you can also mix and match them with your other jewelry and accessories to create endless unique looks.You can pair your chain with any outfit, from a casual tee and jeans to a formal suit. We recommend certain types of chain for certain occasions, but you can get creative with your looks and decide what makes you feel most happy and confident. Pretty much any chain length or gauge looks good with a casual fit, like a tee or sweatshirt and jeans. They especially pop when paired with dark colors, like dark denim jeans or leather jackets. Choose between polished or matte chains depending on your personal style preference.
Mixing and matching your chains with other accessories is a great way to spice up any outfit. Different jewelry combinations can make even the same outfit look brand new from day to day. One way to get creative with your chains is by creating a layered necklace stack. Pair your chain with other chains in various lengths, styles, gauges and colors. You can even throw in a pendant necklace for extra flair. To learn more about creating a great, impactful necklace stack, you can read our guide to necklace layering.
Why Choose a Stainless Steel Curb Chain?
Stainless steel has all the style and durability benefits of gold or silver, but without the hefty price tag. Like gold–and unlike silver–stainless steel doesn’t tarnish or rust. It’s also one of the most durable metals on the market, which makes it ideal for everyday wear, especially for adventurous or athletic guys. It comes in many colors, including yellow and white, that resemble gold, silver or platinum at a fraction of the price. Plus, you can find them in blue or black–colors you won’t find with precious metals.A high quality stainless steel chain, like the ones you’ll find at Robert Alton, can last for years without fading or breaking. Of course, it’s important to take good care of your curb chain, but the good news is, they’re super low maintenance. They don’t need any special products, re-plating, or polishing; you can just give them an occasional wipe-down with mild soap (like dish soap) and water. For a trouble-free, stylish accessory, it’s hard to beat a stainless steel chain.
Find Your Curb Chain at Robert Alton
Curb chains are a stylish and versatile option for any guy, whether as a first piece of jewelry or an addition to the aficionado’s jewelry collection. Stainless steel curb chains are especially great as low-maintenance, affordable, and durable accessories. When it’s time to upgrade your jewelry game, we can’t think of a better piece than the curb chain, and we can’t think of a better place to get one than Robert Alton.Sure, we may be a little biased, but we really are pros when it comes to stainless steel jewelry. It’s our specialty, and we’re excited to offer chains in all kinds of lengths, styles, and colors. We hope you’ll give our website a look, and we’re confident you’ll find a chain you love.