You've seen them popping up on your Instagram feed, making their way into your friends' wardrobes, and even showing up in celebrities' red carpet looks. It’s no secret: this year’s top menswear trend is the chain link necklace.

Chains for men are deceptively simple–though they may all look similar from a distance, take a closer look and you’ll discover a whole world of link shapes and different types of chains. Before you take the plunge and purchase one for yourself (or someone you love), let’s dip our toes in the sea of style with a rundown on chains and how to wear them.

 

Men's Chains: The Basics

Chains are estimated to be one of the oldest--if not the oldest--styles of jewelry known to man. Ancient Egyptian royalty are depicted wearing chains in hieroglyphic art. Fashion pioneer Coco Chanel created her own sleek chains, often bearing her iconic double-C logo, and layered them. Now, they're a streetwear staple thanks to the hip hop movement. For thousands of years, chain links have represented the peak of success and style.

Perhaps one reason why chains have such staying power is their sheer variety. Chains can differ in color, thickness (also called gauge) and length, but links may be the key factor in a chain's appearance.

Each chain is made up of dozens--or hundreds--of tiny pieces called links.  Links are the name of the chain game. These are the little metal shapes which, when joined together, create the fascinating patterns and illusions that give chain necklaces their allure.Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at some of the most common types of chains for men.



 

Cable Chain

Let's start with the basics: a simple, clean cable chain. The cable chain consists of plain round or oval shaped links connected to each other in a straightforward, one-by-one pattern. This is a standard type of necklace chain, and typically a thinner gauge, making it an ideal choice for pairing with a pendant.

The cable chain doesn't need much explanation or fanfare. Its sleek and uncomplicated design speaks for itself.

 

Curb Chain

The name ‘curb chain’ doesn’t imply just one link shape–it’s actually a category encompassing a variety of link shapes. The basic criteria for a curb chain are:

1. Link Uniformity: Curb chains are created from flattened links of the same shape, interlocked in a straightforward, consistent pattern.
2. Link Density: Curb chains tend to have a higher link density that cable chains, but will not have links as tightly packed as a rope chain or Cuban link. The higher link density lends curb chains a more substantial appearance.

As long as links are uniform and somewhat dense, curb chain links can come in a wide variety of shapes. Curb chain links can have flattened, squared edges or rounded edges. They can be linked in a single row or doubled up to create a thicker, more intricate-looking chain.

Several factors give the curb chain necklace its appeal. One, of course, is the sheer number of link shapes the purchaser can choose from. Between link shapes and different gauges, the curb chain promises endless style possibilities.

Second, the slightly flattened cut of curb links create the illusion that this type of chain is thicker than it actually is, so you get a bigger, bolder-looking chain with less metal--meaning it's both more lightweight and more affordable than it appears. Another bonus of the curb link chain is that it lays flat against the chest and is thus less likely to kink or twist.

Finally, the relative simplicity of a curb chain makes it an ideal tier in a layered chain look. Pair it up with a chain or two of a thinner gauge, or a short, thick rope chain to hop on the latest layered necklace trend. Since it's not particularly flashy on its own, the curb link chain is also ideal if you're searching for a colorful chain or black chain.



 

Franco Chain

The Franco chain is named for its Italian creator. This link design involves weaving together several curb links into one larger, interlocked V shape--making it more durable than a single link. The hardiness of the Franco link chain makes it a popular choice for those seeking to attach a heavy pendant to their chain. Thanks to its V-shaped links, the Franco chain is also far less likely to kink or twist than other chains, so it's perfect for a man on the move.

The Franco chain exemplifies craftsmanship and sophistication. The braided links flow together with a beautiful shimmer and move dynamically with the wearer. Intricate enough on its own, it can be worn with nothing more than your favorite tee.

 

Box Chain

The box link chain was invented in Venice by 6th century artisans, and became hugely popular with Italian royalty. Thanks to that history, it is also known as the Venetian chain. Box chains are formed by folding metal wires of equal size into a cube. Each link in the chain thus takes on a three-dimensional appearance. The individual links in a box chain are woven in a tight pattern; the high link density makes this an expecially durable chain.

When it comes to styling your box chain, take the length and gauge of the chain necklace into account. Longer, thinner box chains are a great choice for holding pendants. Thicker box chains, on the other hand, can either make a statement on their own or serve as an anchoring piece in a layered chain stack. Regardless of how you wear it, the box chain necklace is perfect for a man carving out his place in history.



 

Cuban Link Chain

Likely the most well-known style of men's chain, Cuban link chains earned their name as they rose to popularity in Miami during the 1970s. The men's Cuban link chain is comprised of round or oval rings interlocked at a medium density. They tend to be more expensive than other chains due to their notoriety, as well as the fact that their links are rounder, bolder, and thicker--thus requiring more precious metal to manufacture. This also means that they tend to need more polishing to maintain their luster.

As a result of their high-gauge links, Cuban link chains possess less flexibility than curb chains, box chains, or Franco chains. Heavy gauges and low flexibility mean that Cuban link chains don't capture the same alluring movement as some thinner chains. However, what they sacrifice in dynamism, they make up for in sheer eye-catching power. Cuban link chains are ideal for a statement look.

 

Rope Chain

The rope chain rocketed to popularity during the early days of the hip hop movement, and is still closely associated with street style. Iconic rappers like Run DMC and 50 Cent pioneered this statement style, typically wearing their rope chains without pendants or layering chains. To date, it's synonymous with flashy fashion.

To form a rope chain, several links are twisted into “knots” of metal to resemble a woven rope. The dense, concentric twisted rings make it one of the most durable types of chains. The rope chain's heavy gauge and intricate link segments make it the optimal choice for a man who wants his accessories to stand out.

 

Figaro Chain

The Figaro chain also got its name thanks to Italian design--specifically, it's named for a classic Italian opera character, though nobody is quite sure why. The Figaro chain has a unique link pattern: two or three flattened circular links followed by an elongated oval link. One look at this alluring pattern and you'll understand why the Figaro chain has been beloved in Italy for centuries.

You can style your Figaro chain however you wish, but its unique pattern makes it a wonderful standalone piece. Drape a Figaro chain over a sweater to instantly elevate your look. When you wear a Figaro chain, you'll feel like the pinnacle of class--this is a piece for a true gentleman.

 

Mariner Link Chain

The mariner link chain is an up-and-coming style, featuring interlocked oval links with bars in the centers. The links' unique appearance resembles an anchor, hence the name 'mariner link.' Though commonly flat, these chains can also be ‘puffed’--comprised of rounded, thicker links.

A lower-gauge mariner chain offers a design twist on the cable chain and would serve as a great chain on which to hang a pendant. Puffed mariner chains may not suit a pendant, but are plenty striking on their own. The outdoorsy man will appreciate their nautical inspiration, and the fashion-forward man will love being on the cutting edge of a new trend.



 

Men’s Chain Sets

If you're looking for an easy and budget-friendly way to add panache to your wardrobe, consider a chain set. These packages come with a men's chain bracelet in addition to a matching men's stainless steel chain necklace. Chains have opened up a new frontier in bracelets for men, as you can now pair your necklace with identical links on your wrist.



Bring a dash of dapper black to your next outfit with a men's black chain necklace and matching men's chain bracelet. Robert Alton offers these sets in two link styles, so you can choose the one best suited for your taste and lifestyle.



 

Men's Chains: The New Must-Have

Stainless steel chains like those available at Robert Alton are built to serve you and your wardrobe for years to come. Like any fine jewelry, they require a degree of care and cleaning, but put in a little effort and they'll become your go-to accessory

There are a million ways to wear a chain. They can hold a pendant, be layered, or be worn on their own. They can be subtle or flashy, simple or intricate. No matter how you choose to wear your chains, they make a statement and take any outfit up a notch.