Earrings are a wardrobe staple that come in an endless variety of styles. Choose from dainty studs to eye-catching statement pieces that can make an impact.
Like your favourite jeans, you can’t go wrong with a reliable pair of everyday earrings. These are the ones you can shower in, sleep with and even wear to a ceremony.
Earring Styles
Whether you’re a minimalist vibing with staples like petite studs or a maximalist bling lover who loves a statement pair of chandelier earrings, the right pair of earrings can make or break your look. From a dainty and discreet touch of shimmer to a dangling pair that moves with your movement to an edgier ear cuff, there’s a variety of styles to suit every occasion and mood.
Earrings are a no-fuss accessory that instantly adds polish to any outfit, from casual ensembles to formal attire. Studs are perhaps the most popular earring style, but they also come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Hoop and huggie earring styles are very versatile and flatter all types of face shapes. And hoops can be as simple or as intricate as you wish, from large circular styles to smaller huggies that sit closer to the earlobe.
Earring Materials
Earrings come in a wide array of materials and each material brings a different look to the earring. Some examples of materials include natural gemstones, pearls, crystals, and even diamonds.
Another popular type of earring material is ceramic. This surprisingly durable material is available in many colors and styles. It is easy to work with and is often used as a base for other materials like beads or jewelry charms.
Stud earrings are a classic style that is both simple and versatile. They are smaller than other earring styles and can be adorned with a variety of gemstones.
Lever backs are a variation on latch backs and feature a hinged post that allows the earring to close and lock into place. This type of earring closure is most often found with hoop-like designs such as huggies and off-round hoops in a wide variety of geometric shapes.
Earring Backings
Earring backs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. While they may seem like an insignificant detail, they can actually have a significant impact on the overall style and safety of your earrings.
Push backs are the most common type of earring backing. They're butterfly shaped and rely on friction to secure the earring post to your earlobe. These are ideal for stud earrings and lightweight drop and dangle earrings.
Screw backs are another classic option that works by literally screwing onto a threaded earring post. These require a bit more time to put on, but they provide the most security out of all earring backs and are recommended for stud earrings or very expensive jewelry.
La pousette backs, also known as positive locking or guardian backs, are cleverly designed mechanical backings that retract connections inside when pressure is applied to them. These are the most secure option for hoop earrings and they can be tricky to fasten last-minute while running out the door.
Earring Shapes
Earrings come in a variety of shapes. Whether you’re looking for a minimalist stud, a statement chandelier, or something in between, you’ll find a style to match your personality and occasion.
Hoops are a classic and timeless earring style. They have a circular shape and can be large or small. Hoop earrings are great for everyday wear because they don’t catch on hair or clothing, unlike dangling styles.
For a more playful option, try tassel earrings. These dangle below the ear and have a textured, colorful design. Another trendy earring style is the jacket type, which combines a simple stud at the front of the lobe with a more complex design peeking out from behind it, like petals and stars. You’ll also find a newer type of hoop called huggies, which hug the earlobe more closely than traditional hoop styles. They’re perfect for everyday wear and can be worn alone or paired with other huggies to create a layered look.
