Ah, yes – earrings – who doesn’t love them, right?
Over the years, earrings have become a symbol of wealth, fashion, status, and even power in many cultures around the world. Today, they are a wildly popular fashion accessory worn by everybody from casuals to royalty to movie stars and biker gangs!
Earrings have become an inherent part of our lives, haven’t they? After all, they’ve been an integral part of human culture for as long as we can remember. In fact, the earliest evidence of earrings can be traced back to ancient Persia, where men and women would wear earrings made of gold and precious stones. Little did they know that they would shape many of the fashion trends around the jewelry as we know it today.
From extravagant chandeliers to simple, basic-looking but eye-catching studs, earrings cater to all styles and preferences and can be worn on a variety of occasions. But before we discuss the different and unique earring types, let’s take a quick history lesson to appreciate this sometimes understated fashion accessory truly.
Table of Contents
From status symbol to fashion icon: A brief history of earrings
Did you know that Europe’s oldest man had pierced ears? Interesting, isn’t it?
Earrings mean different things to different people, and they all wear them for different reasons. Still, it’s safe to say that earrings have been regarded as a symbol of expression for thousands of years. From Caesar to Shakespeare, here’s a brief history of their journey to being a symbol of fashion, expression, emotion, power and more:
Earrings as a status symbol
Around 3,000 BC, earrings were zealously worn in Middle Eastern countries to show the wearer’s political or religious beliefs and even their social class at times, depending on how a specific culture was seen in a particular region.
Talisman across many cultures
For some people, earrings became a ceremonial symbol. Some tribes would wear them to thwart off demons from possessing their minds through the ears, while Persian soldiers thought of earrings as a power amulet or charm to protect themselves in battle.
An icon of fashion and prestige
Around 200 AD, earpieces became an international sensation, and in the following years, religious bodies started banning earrings as they saw them as bodily blasphemy.
This is why, during the same era, thieves would wear earrings as a “devil may care” kind of rebellion. So, during this time, earrings would either make you a pious person or a pirate, although sailors would wear them as a means to pay for their burial if they washed ashore – some even engraved their home port on the earrings.
They came, they went
Between the hats, hairstyles, and high collars prevalent in the Middle Ages, for instance, earrings were made practically irrelevant. Brooches and lockets replaced them as a very popular alternative.
However, the moment up-dos made a comeback, so did earrings. The free love era of the 1960s made earrings explode as a piece of jewelry to express oneself personally, so they became a permanent staple in fashion.
Earrings today
Nowadays, earrings are seen less as a status symbol, even though some gemstones are valued over others. However, for the most part, jewelry, like earrings, is no longer a power play. Now, it’s more about expressing yourself through your unique style, celebrating romance, and even cherishing family heirlooms.
There are other things too, as people enjoy wearing earrings for all kinds of reasons, but it’s safe to say: a status symbol they are not anymore as they were hundreds to thousands of years ago.
The good stuff: Different types of earrings
Some earrings are made to be glamorous and ornate, making them perfect for certain occasions, while others are made for everyday usage and something you can comfortably take on and off without snagging.
Here are the most common types of earrings so the next time you go shopping, you’ll know exactly what to look for:
Stud Earrings
One of the most common types of earrings is stud earrings. These are your basic, classic, and traditional earring styles. The design is simple with a single gemstone typically or a metal ball sitting directly on the earlobe. They’re fun and convenient!
Stud earrings are ideal for everyday use or when you want to add just a touch of elegance and panache to your outfit. They also go great with necklaces and bracelets.
Studs are really popular because of their simple yet elegant design. They’re available in a variety of styles – from simple ball studs in gold or silver to beautiful pearl studs and diamond earrings. If you’re planning to wear these classic earrings at a special event or occasion, such as a formal dinner or wedding reception, a pair of diamond studs will really make your eyes glitter and your smile pop.
Planning to keep it el casual the next time you go out? Pick up a pair of pearl studs to enjoy a classic and elegant look as you pair them with your favorite jeans and t-shirt combo or even an evening gown. Studs can also be paired up with additional earrings on the ear’s outer cartilage for an edgier look.
Hoop earrings
Hoop earrings, the quintessential accessory for any fashion-savvy lady, have been a staple in women’s fashion for centuries. Their perfectly circular shape defines them, and they come in many different varieties, styles, and sizes. In fact, you’d be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what kind of hoop earrings to complement your style. Fortunately, we have you covered!
Hoop earrings are characterized not only by their circular design but also come in many different sizes to accommodate all kinds of ears and style tastes – from small and elegant-looking hoops to large ones that encircle the entire ear. There are also different thicknesses to choose from, adding or reducing the overall edginess you want.
Hoop earrings can be produced using virtually any metal and material so that you might find them in stainless steel, silver, plastic, white gold, or yellow gold, for instance. While thin hoops are ideal for achieving a chic and elegant look, thick ones are great for adding extra attitude and flair to your personality as well as outfit.
Silver and gold hoop earrings are the usual go-to’s, although a bejeweled hoop can add a lot of swagger and glitz to your aura and character.
Cluster earrings
Cluster earrings are characterized by a cluster or group of gemstones, such as diamonds and other decorative elements, closely arranged together. They provide a stunning effect that’s visually striking, even from a distance, as multiple smaller stones or elements are combined to form a more prominent focal point.
You’ll find that cluster earrings are usually set in a metal framework or base so that the gemstones or decorative elements can be securely placed. They’re available in various sizes, designs, and shapes, with both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements.
Typical gemstones found in cluster earrings include rubies, emeralds, diamonds, sapphires, and coloured gemstones. Women of all ages highly appreciate them as they can add elegance and charm almost effortlessly to any occasion, thanks to the skillful and intricate combination of smaller stones.
Clusters are also available in a snug fit that’s similar to studs or in a ‘dangly’ design, should you choose.
Dangle earrings
Dangle earrings, as the name suggests, hang below the earlobe. They usually come with a decorative element that sways freely, and this is how the term “dangle” earrings came to be known. They can vary in length – from a few millimeters long to an inch or longer – depending on what size and style you prefer.
Dangles can be made from several kinds of materials, such as gemstones, beads, metals, and others. A defining characteristic of these earrings is that they dangle about and move as you move, making your movement appear even more graceful and alluring. What better excuse to add a little sparkle and movement to your outfit, too, right?
Dangle earrings can be highly versatile, so there’s a broad range of styles to choose from, no matter what the occasion.
Hanging past the earlobe, dangle earrings are perfect for creating a more dramatic and eye-catching look. In the Art Deco days, people used to wear dangle earrings that would sometimes hang down to their shoulders. The more movement, the more razzle dazzle!
Threader earrings
If you’re looking for a more modern style of dangle earrings, then go with threader earrings, which come in a variety of breathtaking styles, such as teardrop earrings.
Threaders feature a fine chain or thread passing through the piercing hole, beautifully hanging down on either side of your earlobe. Threader earrings can be made to look as edgy or delicate as you like, depending on the style you’re after. Even then, they’re more than ideal for everyday wear.
If you’ve ever visualized metal passing through your earlobe like thread stitched through a piece of cloth, then you’ll feel right at home. You can even add posts to your ear’s outer cartilage for a sliding and chain-linked look (imagine multiple stitches).
Even though threader earrings are really fine by design, they don’t feel as intricate as they look, so you can wear them casually and feel relaxed throughout the day without worrying about breaking them.
Drop earrings
Drop earrings are a common type of dangle earring, consisting typically of a single decorative element that hangs from the earlobe.
Drop earrings are available in a broad variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from simple and understated designs to bold and eye-catching ones.
These stationary earrings are great for those who are looking to, perhaps, add flashy length to their studs but prefer not to have any movement.
Chandelier Earrings
Chandeliers are a very popular type of dangle earring, having multiple levels or tiers of intricate dangling elements in most cases. This creates a mesmerizing cascading effect when they’re worn.
Chandelier earrings are a great way to create a dramatic, statement-making look, so for nights out or special occasions, slap on a pair and have the time of your life! For ladies who love excess when it comes to fashion, this dangle earring type is both theatrical and extravagant, just like its namesake. Do you enjoy all things luxury? Let the world know, then.
Clip-on earrings
As the name suggests, clip-on earrings can be clipped onto the ear and do not require to be inserted through a piercing. The hinge/spring mechanism allows them to be conveniently clipped onto the earlobe or any other part you like.
Clip-ons come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, much like regular pierced earrings. They’re designed with comfort and ease of use in mind, with cushioned pads preventing any pain or discomfort for extended wear.
Jacket earrings
Jacket earrings, also referred to as earring jackets or ear jackets, are a very versatile and stylish accessory any woman would love to have in her fashion arsenal. They can easily add flair to almost any outfit and consist of two primary components: a lovely decorated front piece that sits on the earlobe and a unique back piece that attaches behind the earlobe to keep them secure and provide a nice layered effect.
The front piece typically has a prominent design or gemstone, while the back piece is usually a simple stud or complementary element. Jackets come with a high degree of flexibility so that you can mix and match them with different varieties of front and back pieces. Experimentation is the key if you want to nail the perfect style combination.
Jacket earrings also provide a rather contemporary twist to traditional earrings. They are often favored over traditional designs for their ability to create some very unique and fully bespoke looks. You’ll definitely enjoy the fun and seamless look of a matching set with jacket earrings but without the visual of the actual mechanism that’s holding them in place.
Ear cuffs
On the lookout for bold-looking earrings to make a statement? The ear cuff, aka. C-shaped hoops are perfect, especially if you want a piercing-free experience. The unique style wraps completely around the outer ear. Just squeeze it gently, and it’s secured in place.
Ear cuffs are typically available in many different styles – from delicate, dainty, and understated styles to chunky, eye-catching, and outspoken ones – and a great way to stand out in a crowd.
The curved or straight metal band-in ear cuffs can easily wrap around the outside of your ear, and you can wear them on one ear at a time or both for a nice, edgy, and asymmetrical look. However, modern times dictate that you flaunt one cuff only as C-shaped hoops used to be worn on both ears in ancient times as a symbol of elitism.
Huggie earrings
Huggie earrings are extremely comfortable to wear, and the best part is you don’t have to compromise on style. Huggies are named rightly so owing to their embracing or hugging design, which sits snugly against the earlobe.
Huggies are actually a fantastic alternative to larger hoop earrings, providing a very similar style but without the potential discomfort and extra weight. They are available in different sizes, ranging from small, almost miniature hoops covering just the earlobe to larger and more prominent designs that engulf the entire ear.
Most huggie earrings come with a hinge closure or snapping mechanism, allowing you to put them on and take them off easily, so they’re absolutely perfect for daily wear or when you want to swap accessories frequently.
Huggies also feature a classic design, which lends them a high degree of versatility, so you can go ahead and pair them with just about any outfit, no matter how casual or formal it might be.
Huggie earrings are kind of like a mini hoop, so they’re perfect for fashionistas who want to appreciate the shape but without displaying any showmanship.
Teardrop earrings
Teardrop earrings are literally shaped like a teardrop – the only difference is they are ‘happy’ tears! Perfect for wearing on occasions that bring heartwarming surprises, wistful nostalgia or when you want to make sweeping romantic gestures.
Bonus: Earring backs
Earring backs play a very important role when it comes to your chosen earrings’ style, comfort, and security. You’ve got classic options like screw backs and push backs to more innovative ones, such as lever backs and latch backs. In any case, each type offers a very unique and practical mechanism for keeping your prized earrings in place.
Once you’ve picked the perfect earrings, you can then decide what kind of earring backs best fit your needs:
- Butterfly backs – These are considered the most common type of earring backs, featuring two folding loops to help securing your earring in place.
- Clip-ons – Clip-ons are ideal for non-pierced ears as they use a screw or hinged mechanism to comfortably attach each clip-on earring to your earlobe.
- Fishhook ear wires – These backs feature a design resembling a hook which goes right through your earlobe. Typically used with dangle earrings.
- Hinge backs – A hinge back is a type of post back, snapping together in a ‘click-into-place’ sort of way to keep your earrings secured. Both hoops and huggies are an example of this.
- Lever backs – Lever backs feature a curved wire and lever to aid in secure closure, ensuring a reliable and comfortable fit.
- Latch backs – Also referred to as hinged hoops, these backs contain a small hinge mechanism, allowing them to open/close effortlessly.
- Push backs – Very straightforward and easy to use, push backs are designed with a metal earring post and small clutch to help hold your earring in place.
- Safety backs – As the name implies, safety backs provide extra security via a secondary metal piece which prevents you from losing your earrings.
- Screw backs – These backs have a threaded post which screws into a compatible earring back, providing for a snug and secure fit.
- Shepard hook backs – These earrings feature a wiring shaped like the end of a shepherd’s fishing line or staff, seamlessly hooking around the back of your earlobe, so that means no post is required. The ornament then elegantly dangles beneath your ear.
How to choose the right earring
Even though when it comes to choosing earrings, you ultimately want to choose the ones that bring you pure joy, you can still benefit from these pointers to choose the perfect ones:
- Take cues from your hair colour. For example, gold tones can really bring out your features if your hair is blond, while silver pairs beautifully with dark hair. For your redheads, go with rose gold. Ah, perfect!
- Lifestyle is an equally important consideration. If you prefer secure earpieces or earrings that don’t dangle, go with studs or huggies. If you don’t mind a little bit of fuss and showmanship, choose something that’s fancy. Dangle and chandelier earrings are two common ones that fall in the latter category.
- Finally, different kinds of earrings can complement different facial shapes and features. Here are a few general guidelines:
- If you have an oval face, then you can pull off many different earring styles. From hoops and studs to teardrop-shaped earrings, oval faces are very versatile, so these earring styles can complement them rather nicely.
- For round faces, elongated and angular earrings like drops, dangles, or long and narrow designs are pretty much ideal as it helps to create the illusion of length to balance out the round face shape.
- For heart-shaped faces, earrings with a wider design at the bottom and a narrower design at the top will go along very nicely. So, try chandelier earrings, teardrop earrings, or those with smooth and subtle curves.
- Square faces typically go nicely with earrings featuring curved or rounded designs as it helps to soften the angles around the face. Try circular studs, hoop earrings or those with flowing lines.
Closing thoughts
Knowing what type of earrings to look for can save you a lot of time and energy while shopping. Once you’ve picked the perfect set of earrings, match them with our collection of standout rings, wallets, accessories and more.
