We all have that one essential item we can’t leave the house without. For some people, it's lip balm or their signature fragrance, while others wouldn't be caught dead without a fresh mani or trendy handbag. For me? I’m not stepping out the door without my earrings. Seriously, going earring-less feels like walking around naked—it's just not the vibe!
Whether you're plotting new ear piercing ideas, need an earring refresh, or want to build the perfect ear stack, the first step is knowing all the different types of earrings you have to choose from. Want to curate a really cool earscape? The key is to mix different earring types together. But if you're not sure where to start, I've got you covered. From everyday hoops and huggies to statement studs and climbers, I put together a super handy guide featuring eight must-have earring types and where to shop 'em. So, without further ado, all the earring inspo, right this way!
Stud Earrings
Maison Miru Celestial Crystal Nap Earrings
BaubleBar Feeling Spicy Earrings
Jordan Road Jewelery Perla Earrings
Hoop Earrings
Okay, call me biased, but hoop earrings are the MVP of accessories, and here's why: they have the magical power to transform any outfit. Whether you like 'em sleek or chunky, hoops are extremely versatile. With literally thousands of options—think diamond-studded or funky shapes—there’s a hoop for every occasion. Plus, they come in all sizes and look even better when doubled up.
Oomiay Cocoon Hoops
Astrid & Miyu Molten Large Hoops
Huggie Earrings
I like to think of huggie earrings as the hoop earring's little sister. She's ~demure~, and she's ~mindful~. But don't let her simplicity fool you. Like her older sis, she too can rock jewels, be added to an earring stack, and add a touch of sophistication. Rather than dangle from the ear, this earring type hugs the earlobe for a more subtle look. Recently spotted on celebs like Kylie Jenner, huggie earrings are a quintessential accessory for year-round wear.
Rellery Turquoise Earrings
PAVOI 14K Gold Plated Sterling Silver Post Huggies
Ana Luisa Crescent Moon Huggie Hoops
Ear Cuffs
Got commitment issues? No worries—ear cuffs are perfect for you! These fun accessories are game changers for anyone not ready to go the whole nine yards for a new piercing. Typically shaped like a circular earring, they are designed with a large opening to slide over your cartilage, so that it sits stylishly on the outside of your ear. Cuffs are ideal for creating unique earring stacks and they're easy to mix and match with your other pieces to achieve a totally blinged out ear.
Mejuri Daily Ear Cuff
Chic & Artsy Set of 3 Gold Ear Cuffs
Astrid & Miyu Illusion Crystal Ear Cuff
Ear Climbers
Similar to studs, ear climbers fit close to the ear and sit snugly along your ear's contours. Designed to "climb" up your ear, the style can give the illusion of multiple piercings when in reality the earring just requires a single piercing. They're great for adding some edginess to your look and can totally be worn for any occasion.
SHASHI Star Disco Climber Earrings
Wolf and Badger Dripping Gold Vermeil Ear Climber
Uncommon James Riverside Ear Climber
Nadri Leah Pavé Cage Ear Crawlers
Threader Earrings
Threader earrings are delicate and perfect for moments when you want to add some movement to your earscape. Designed to be "threaded" through the your ear piercing, this style has an ear post on at least one end that's pulled gently through the piercing by a thin, lightweight chain. Since they dangle below the ear, they're great for those sleek, pulled-back hair looks.
Amazon Essentials Hard Wire Threader Earrings
BaubleBar Spillo Earrings
Drop Earrings
Drop earrings are exactly what they sound like—they drop right below the earlobe and trust me, they know how to make a statement. Usually featuring charms or gemstones, these earrings add the perfect flair. The style looks great with a slicked-back hair look, letting them steal the show and add movement to your 'fit. Plus, like many earring styles, they vary in size, so you can go as small and simple or big and dramatic as you're feeling.
Briwok Baby Brando Earrings
NOTTE Jewelry Disco Disco Pearl Earrings
Gorjana Preston Drop Earrings
Statement Earrings
Last but certainly not least: the statement earring. They're the accessory for when you're looking for something bold and eye-catching. One of the biggest current jewelry trends, statement earrings come in all shapes and sizes and are meant to make a b-i-g impact. So don't be shy; get strategic when pairing them with an outfit. Perfect for a GNO, date night, or any special occasion, having a fave pair of statement earrings is not a want, but a NEED, bb.
Petit Moments Multi Stone Earrings
SHASHI Hyacinthe Earrings
Chaise Sanders is a NYC-based writer with a knack for all things lifestyle, beauty, entertainment, and style. Her work has graced the pages of Cosmopolitan, Country Living, InStyle, and more. When she's not busy crafting words, you can find her on Instagram roaming the streets of New York City, hunting down the best food spots, hidden gems, and deals.
