Wrap Chokers

Design Idea F31Q Wrap Choker
by Leslie, Exclusively for Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®

Choker necklaces were created all the way back in ancient civilizations as an adornment that protects the neck, a very vital part of the body. Similar to chainmaille's evolution, the choker has turned purely into a fashion statement. Chokers were made popular in the late 1800s by the Princess of Wales and saw a huge resurgence during the '90s. Chokers continue to be a fashion staple now, with specific types enjoying increased and consistent popularity such as the wrap choker.

Wrap Chokers

What's a Wrap Choker?

The wrap choker is known by many names, including tie choker and wrap around choker. No matter what you call it, this choker is simple in design, but so incredibly versatile with dozens of ways to personalize how it's worn. We'll cover some of the most popular materials and ways to embellish this cord choker then offer you some of the most popular ways we've seen the wrap choker worn.

Wrap Chokers

Wrap Choker Bases

This boho style of choker can be made with multiple types of cord, but there is one consistent attribute: softness. The material should be soft and comfortable, since the idea is to wrap the cording (sometimes multiple times) around the neck. Suede lace and leather cord are the most popular, sometimes earning this choker the name of suede choker. These soft, yet thick stringing materials allow you to easily tie (and just as importantly untie) the cord with ease, as well as add unique embellishments. Ribbon of varying materials such as velvet have also been seen as a base for these chokers.

Suede Lace Cord

Wrap Choker Embellishments

Simple tie chokers are not overly adorned, instead taking on a bit of a minimalist look. Most commonly, the ends of the cord are finished with sleek metal cord ends or bolo tips. Small tassels have been seen dangling from the ends of tie choker cording as well as lightweight pendants such as leaves, feathers, arrows or blank long rectangles. Single gemstone beads are sometimes hung from these ends as well or large-hole beads are kept on the ends by simply knotting around them.

Double-Sided Arrow Charms Double-Sided Arrow Charms

Add half a dozen large-hole beads (that are small, smooth and won't be uncomfortable against the neck) without knotting so you can slide and position them while putting on your choker. Single long tube beads are also not uncommon to slide on. Smaller-size charms (such as those with affirmations) and drops with attached bails can also be slid onto the cord before adding cord ends, which will then prevent anything from sliding off. The charm can then be moved to the desired location depending on how you tie the length of cord.

Curved Tube Beads

Tying a Wrap Choker

So how do you tie a wrap choker anyway? Literally any way you want. Wrap around chokers provide almost limitless versatility in how you want to wear the design each day. Who doesn't love options?! Experiment to see which methods work best for varying clothing necklines.

Wrap the cord a few times or all the way around your neck and then create a simple bow close to the base of the throat or that hangs near the clavicle. Tying bows is incredibly common and allows you to adjust the length of the cord depending on how small or large you make the bow.

Wrap the cord once around the neck and then loop the ends over each over for a more lariat appearance.

Wrap the cord multiple times around and allow the ends to hang (forward or backward).

Tie a (not too tight) knot at a point along the cords. Some people get nervous about leaving the ends just dangling without a tie, so if open-ended isn't your style, try this technique.

Of course, if you absolutely love one style, you'll always wear it that way and you don't want to deal with looping, tying and untying, you can add a clasp to the back of the cord.

Depending how else you accessorize, you can create distinctly Western, boho or other style vibes. We've noticed quite a few floppy, wide-brim hats as an additional accessory to the wrap around choker look. The simplicity of this style lends itself well to layering with other necklaces as well, such as chain, for a mix of textures.

Have fun making this choker all your own!

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