DIY Choker + 3 Ways to Wear

Chokers have returned to the fashion scene in a big way! So much so, that they are now considered the new statement necklaces. With no sewing skills required and endless style possibilities, it’s easy to hone in on the choker trend following a quick DIY. You don’t even need to spend a dime!

As a matter of fact, I strictly used items I had laying around the house. I held on to the scrap pieces from my DIY Lace-Up Mules post knowing they would make a great choker or two. No doubt my style of choice was edgy rocker chic doubled as a 3-in-1!

The whole idea behind this post is for you to use what you have on hand. You could very well substitute using leather scraps or even fabric, to recreate a similar look.

Here’s what I did

1. First, I removed the suede portion from both ends of the scrap pieces.
2. Since the pieces had zipper tapes still intact on one side, I decided to reattach the zipper pull (from the shoe) to join them, but not as a closure. Before doing so, I made sure the zipper tapes were the same length on either sides.
3. Once the pull was reattached, I proceeded with the other side of the choker. I chose a style (lace-up) that could double as a closure. Before starting on the eyelets, I made some adjustments with the fit, removing a bit at a time until I was happy with it.
4. For the the eyelets, I followed steps 5 & 6 here. The suede cording I cut 1 piece, long enough for the choker to fit over my head with ease. Once the eyelet were in and laced up, I went over the cut edges with a black sharpie.
5. As for the embellishments, I secured them to the ends of the cord using whatever wire I could find. It just so happen to be a couple paper twist ties (I found them easier to work with than a paper clip). I simply removed them from the paper casing and wrapped them tightly around the cord, leaving the ends out.
6. With a plier, I twisted the ends together, curled them under and done! *Please take precautions, if you so happen to attempt this!

Here’s the finished look

The zipper isn’t functional so to get the choker on, I simply loosen the lace to open it up (as shown below) then pull it on over my head.

LOOK 1: Ring Charm Style

LOOK 2: Lace-Up Bow Style

LOOK 3: Wrapped to give a layered necklace style

I love how the zipper created a v-shape of sorts, which was totally unintentional! I hope my DIY choker has inspired you to make your very own, using materials you already have laying around the house.

Thoughts?