How To Wear: Victorian Guard Chains

Originally worn by Victorian women as a way to carry their pocket watches; these long chains (often called "Guard Chains" or "Slide Chain" by collectors) came in solid gold, gold filled, and occasionally silver. As Victorians were experts in mixing form and function; slide chains can be worn in a number of ways. 

1. Super Duper Long

photo via Morning Glory Antiques

For the traditional Victorian woman who lead a fairly sedentary life, there was little risk of getting tangled in the chain. To keep the length under control the end piece can be tucked into a pocket or clipped onto a belt or sash. The slide can be used to adjust the length slightly. 

2. Festoon 

The chain can be doubled up and clipped in the center to create a festoon style look. A pendant can be added to the clip. Just wrap the chain around your neck once. Even out the two layers and clip in the bottom part of the chain.

3. layered choker
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photo via Morning Glory Antiques

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A simple way to wear your slide chain is to double it up. Just wrap once around your neck, to make a choker portion, and let the rest hang. You can adjust the choker portion to your desired length. This gives a nice layered necklace look. Like two chains in one!. 

4. Pendant Style

​You can also use the slide and clasp as charms. Just apply the chain as if it were a regular old boring one and clip it in the front. Pull the slide wherever you wold like it to sit. Now you have a double layered chain with a unique charm.

​Aren't slide chains the coolest?? There are infinite ways to wear them. They can even be wrapped around the wrist as bracelets if you have enough length. Some people even collect the slides to make charm bracelets out of. 

If you have a unique way of wearing yours; please share in the comments below.

via Pinterest