A choker is a tight-fitting necklace, worn high on the neck.

With an Off-the-Shoulder Top

A sweater with a wide, open neckline looks best with a choker, which doesn't interfere with the dramatic scoop neck. To play up the décolletage, look for a choker with a simple embellishment, like this 18-karat-gold-plated ring on a navy cord.

Beware: A choker will exaggerate a short or thick neck. Not sure that you have one? If you can touch your chin to your chest without difficulty, you are short-necked; if your neck blends into your jawline without much definition, it is considered full.

To Buy: Agatha Paris ring, $16, and cord, $6: 800-242-8427. Cris cashmere sweater, $194, Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue.com for store locations.

With a Strapless Dress

"A choker works best on bare skin," says New York City image consultant Elena Castaneda. To dress up a strapless number for evening, look for a choker with a bit of sparkle. Small tourmaline gemstones make this one dressy enough to wear into the wee hours.

To Buy: Allyson Smith gold-and-tourmaline choker, $310, www.allysonsmith.com. Kathlin Argiro cotton-blend dress, $320, www.kathlinargiro.com.