Pearl White Floral Choker

Fitting it: the ribbon and its seven spare centimetres

The ribbon measures 32 centimetres on its own, and the chain behind it carries the rest. Those spare links are what let the same piece work as a proper choker on one person and as a slightly looser collar on another, depending on where the neckline of the dress falls.

How it fastens at the nape

Once the choker is let out to its full length, the clasp and the unused links stay on show at the back. That is worth knowing before you commit to an updo; with hair down, none of it is visible.

Why this feather choker sits wider than it looks

The feathers fan out well past the flower on both sides, and that is where the width comes from. Underneath them the ribbon is flat and woven with a faint pattern that only catches the light at an angle. The flower itself layers several rows of petals, some glossy and some matt, around a cluster of small round beads, and a few teardrop beads hang loose below and swing when you turn your head.

Bride or guest: where this white choker fits

White on white is the obvious route, over a bridal gown or a pale ceremony dress. It also holds its own against navy or deep green, where the feathers read as a bright block rather than a match. You can see what else is set aside for the wedding day next to it, including several other floral designs.

Keep earrings small here. The choker already fills the space between chin and collarbone, and a long drop earring will only compete with it. If you would rather not choose at all, a set that solves the matching problem may be the easier answer.

Getting it to the venue in one piece

Feathers travel badly in a packed bag. Carry the choker flat in its own layer, flower facing up, and keep other jewellery off it, because pressure is what flattens the barbs and they rarely spring back on their own. A puff of cool air helps separate any that have clumped together.

Perfume, rain and the fabric flower

Spray scent before you put the choker on, not after: the petals hold whatever lands on them. Rain is the other thing to avoid, since damp fabric dries stiff and soaked feathers separate badly.